by Talia Henderson |
In the midst of summertime, along with enjoying the many activities that refresh and rejuvenate us, we are also conveniently reminded of the joyful presence of mosquitoes. With the late summer storms having increased our water supply, it is likely these beastly bugs will be especially frequent this year. The chemicals found in store-bought mosquito repellents have been linked to many side effects and are considered by some to be dangerous. This summer, be ready to remedy these mosquitoes the Healthy Beginnings Magazine way, in a natural and organic way. Supplied is a list of non-toxic options to make yourselves’ mosquito-free this summer.
- The best method is to not give them homes. Get rid of outdoor clutter that contains or may contain stagnant water.
- Cinnamon oil is a great-smelling, environmentally friendly pesticide that has the ability to kill mosquito larvae and act as a repellant according to the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.
- Plant marigolds, rosemary, tansy, basil, garlic and Thai lemon grass around your home, these are mosquito repellent plants/herbs.
- Rub garlic clove; pinched to get the juice flowing, all over exposed skin.
- Get a bat and a bat house. Bats can kill thousands of mosquitoes every night.
- Use mosquito repellent candles that burn citronella or other essential oils.
- Concoctions:
- Use 10 ounces of rubbing alcohol, witch hazel, vodka or olive oil into an empty plastic spray bottle. Add 1 ounce of any of the following essential oils: castor, cedar, celery extract, clove, citronella, geranium, lemon eucalyptus, fennel, lavender, lemon grass, peppermint, rosemary, soybean, thyme or tea tree oil. Mix well and store in a spray bottle.
- Use or grow Catnip. Use 2 cups of stemmed catnip and gently roll it with a rolling pin. Put it in a jar and cover with 3 cups of vinegar. Seal the jar and store for 2 weeks in a dark place. Shake jar daily. Filter liquid into a spray bottle and keep refrigerated.
References:
1. www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2004/07/040716081706.htm
2. www.ehow.com/how_2064233_repel-mosquitoes-naturally.html
3. www.thefrugallife.com/mosquitoes.html
