As the weather warms, it’s hard to think about anything but getting out in the sunshine and enjoying a picnic, or perhaps heading out on a camping trip. Unfortunately, those pesky flying bugs known as mosquitoes can take all the fun out of spending time outdoors.
On top of that, for such a small creature, they’re rather frightening with the potential for carrying threatening diseases like malaria, West Nile virus and encephalitis.
At the same time, those chemical-filled products designed to keep mosquitoes away bring their own concerns. While some feel concerns about toxicity are over-hyped, if there are effective, natural options, doesn’t it make sense to use those over something that has the potential to harm our health?
Here is a look at some of the best natural repellents to try.
Garlic
Garlic has long been said to keep the mosquitoes away. It also might keep your friends and family at a further distance, but does it really ward off those awful bugs? There hasn’t been much research done to back up the claims, however, many people swear by it. Adding more garlic to your diet definitely won’t hurt, as it’s packed with antioxidants and can even fight off infections.
Burn Candles or Enjoy a Campfire
Both citronella candles and standard candles tend to work well for keeping mosquitoes at bay, as they tend to stay away from the smoke. This same theory is applied to burning firewood. Sit back, relax, enjoy those warm summer nights with some friends around a fire pit without getting eaten up!
Lemon Eucalyptus Oil
Consumer Reports, the CDC and many others have recommended lemon eucalyptus oil as an effective mosquito repellent. A 40 percent or higher concentration does the trick in warding off both mosquitoes and ticks.
Catnip Oil
Iowa State University researchers found that catnip oil was ten times more effective than DEET at repelling mosquitoes. Undiluted catnip oil is said to provide up to two hours of insect repellent properties when applied directly to the skin.
If you’re allergic to cats, you might want to consider other options instead, although we’ve yet to see anyone who was suddenly attacked by a gang of felines after applying catnip oil.
Clove Oil
Clove oil has a myriad of wonderful uses, including being an effective mosquito repellent. It should be diluted to a concentration of no more than 24 percent as it can cause skin irritation. The best blend is a mix of 80 percent olive oil or coconut oil to 20 percent clove oil.
What natural solutions have you found to work?
-The Alternative Daily
