What are the natural and plant-derived mosquito repellents
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got you itching? Browse around here for some remedies. We have
reviews of different mosquito traps and an educational resource about
mosquitoes, and what you can do to avoid being bitten.
From their irritating whine to their
sting and itch of their bite, the mosquito
is at the bottom of human kind's list of favorite creatures. As new
information
emerges about the diseases they carry, their growing resistance to
insecticides,
and their increasing numbers, the mosquito, once nothing more than a
summer annoyance,
is capturing headlines worldwide.
Natural and Plant-Derived Repellents and Products
Including: citronella,
cedar, verbena, pennyroyal, geranium, lavender, pine, cajeput,
cinnamon, rosemary, basil, thyme, allspice, garlic, and peppermint
Thousands of plants have been tested as potential sources of insect
repellents.
None of the plant-derived chemicals tested to date demonstrate the broad
effectiveness
and duration of DEET. A few show some repellent activity. Plants whose
essential
oils have been reported to have some repellent activity include
citronella, cedar,
verbena, pennyroyal, geranium, lavender, pine, cajeput, cinnamon,
rosemary, basil,
thyme, allspice, garlic, and peppermint. Unlike synthetic insect
repellents, plant-derived
repellents have not been studied in-depth. When tested, most of these
essential
oils tended to provide only limited and short-lasting protection,
usually less than
2 hours (some only minutes). Natural products are included in lotions,
sprays,
and in candles and other devices. Various mosquito-repelling plants have
been advertised,
as worthy additions to your garden. Unless you desire the look of the
plant, save
your money, their effectiveness is limited. Certain products in this
category require
the burning of a candle or other item. This could pose a health as well
as a fire
hazard, so use caution. Be wary of products manufactured by companies
you don't
know and trust.
Pros:
No chemicals or pesticides.
Cons:
Very limited effectiveness.
Here is a list of the many types of mosquito control products. We have
listed the pros and cons of each type.
Mosquito Traps | Bug Zappers | Deet | Permethrin | Natural and Plant-Derived Repellents and Products
Mosquito Band Blocking Devices | Ultrasonic & Electronic Devices | Bats | Chemical Insecticides