For many people summertime is beaches, cookouts, and vacations. To others, it is bugs: mosquitoes, black flies, ticks, fleas, and so many more. We are often torn between the agony of being harassed and bitten by these tiny pests and the use of chemical-laden sprays which repel them. There are alternatives, however. Herbs and essential oils have been used for centuries to keep insects and vermin away from us. Ancient Romans and Greeks would strew scented herbs on their floors for this purpose. In India, Patchouli leaves were often used to deter moths and other insects when transporting textiles, imparting their distinct fragrance.
Plants have been producing essential oils for millions of years. These oils have evolved in the natural environments and become extremely useful in many ways. Essential oils protect plants from harmful bacteria, fungus, and harsh environmental conditions. They are sometimes used to attract beneficial birds and insects for pollination, and most often, they are used to repel harmful insects.
Mosquitoes are attracted to humans by skin odor and the carbon dioxide in breath. Whether repellents contain synthetic chemicals or all natural ingredients, they work on the same principle. Generally, insect repellents work by making the human host unappealing to insects.
The majority of modern effective insect repellent products contain synthetic chemicals such as DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide). Many studies have been done testing the toxicity of DEET and the effects on human health. The Environmental Protection Agency has reported that there have been 14-46 cases of seizures connected with the use of DEET and 4 deaths. Although the expected seizure rate is only 1 in 100 million users, many people are choosing not to take the chance.
Nowadays, it is fairly easy to find insect sprays made with natural and often organic essential oils. Many studies have been done, showing the efficacy of essential oils in repelling insects. A review on PubMed.org states that a combination of citronella and vanillin provided repellancy equivalent in duration to products containing DEET. In another study, citronella, patchouli, and clove oils all provided protection against three different species of mosquitoes. It is often best to use a blend of essential oils that work synergistically: providing more protection than when used alone.
Be sure to test the product on a small area on the skin (often the inside of the arm is best), for any sensitivity before spraying all over. Often, just misting the clothes is just as effective. Never use essential oils directly on the skin without using a carrier oil or other dilutant. By using these essential oil products, we can enjoy our summer with fewer insects and harmful chemicals.
Many essential oils have been shown to be effective in deterring insects, including: Citronella, Peppermint, cedarwood, thyme, clove, and patchouli. It may be necessary to apply natural insect repellent more frequently, but when they smell so nice, it isn't necessarily a bad thing! Great smelling and effective insect repellents can be found at http://www.bella-oils.com/.
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