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The Buzz on Insect Repellants
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The onset of warmer weather brings us outdoor activities like hiking, camping, sports and picnics. Unfortunately it also brings with it mosquitoes, black flies, and bees. To reduce the number of itches and ouches you experience this summer, try a natural insect repellent with active ingredients like essential oils.
Most conventional insect repellents contain the active ingredient DEET, which is an abbreviation for N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide. DEET was originally created for use as a pesticide; however the United States army soon adopted the chemical for use in jungle warfare in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. It is a yellowish oil that can be applied to skin or clothing and can be quite helpful in repelling a majority of insects. Although effective at repelling insects, DEET has been known to cause skin irritations, and in some cases insomnia, mood disturbances and impaired cognitive functions. Studies have shown that DEET inhibits the activity of a central nervous system enzyme in both mammals and insects, which, in serious cases, can cause paralysis and asphyxiation.
Instead of DEET, try using a product that contains essential oils which will discourage insects from invading your space. Lemon eucalyptus, geranium, thyme, clove, citronella and neem are all oils that have insecticidal compounds that are safe for use on human skin. Some natural brands like All Terrain have tested 100% effective for up to two hours of use, and 98% effective for up to three hours of use. Natural formulas are allergy tested, safe for sensitive skin, and most are sweat resistant. Products that contain lemon eucalyptus oil or citronella oil are most effective against biting insects like mosquitoes and flies. Geranium oil has shown to be most effective at thwarting insects like lice and ticks.
It is easy to make your own natural insect repellent by adding the essential oils to a carrier oil or alcohol – water will not work as the oils will not blend. A good rule of thumb is to maintain a ratio of five to ten percent essential oils to carrier oil or alcohol.
Summer is full of friends, family and fun, and shouldn’t be spent trying to avoid insects and bites, so give these natural repellents a try!
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