Do you often use chemical-based bug repellents? If so, you may want to reconsider your choice. While these repellents effectively keep bugs away, they also come with a number of dangers. Essential oil bug repellents, on the other hand, are a natural and safe alternative that offers a number of benefits. In this article, we will discuss the dangers of chemical-based repellents and the benefits of using an essential oil bug repellent instead!
What Are Chemical-Based Repellents?
Chemical-based repellents are made with a variety of synthetic chemicals. The most common chemical used in these repellents is DEET. DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) was first produced by the US Army in the 1950s and has been sold to consumers since that time. It can cause allergic skin reactions as well as eye irritation, especially at dosages of 50 percent and higher.
According to a 2013 study of approximately 4,000 DEET-related poison control center calls, 450 individuals required medical care after applying DEET; two people died.
In most situations, exposure to DEET has caused epileptic episodes, slurred speech, coma, and other severe symptoms in individuals who have used it for three or more days in a row.
There is some debate about whether lower doses have the same risks, especially if you follow instructions. Nonetheless, we recommend that children, the elderly, and people with weakened immunity take it more cautiously.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, babies under two months old should not be exposed to DEET. Canada’s federal health department advises against using products with more than 10 percent DEET on children 6 months to 12 years old.
What Are Essential Oil-Based Insect Repellents?
Pure essential oils are natural, plant-based oils that have been used for centuries for their medicinal properties. In recent years, they have become more popular as a way to repel bugs naturally.
There are a variety of essential oils that can be used as mosquito repellent, including citronella, lemongrass, eucalyptus, and peppermint. These oils work by masking the scents that attract bugs, making it difficult for them to find you!
Not only are essential oil-based repellents effective at keeping bugs away, but they are also safe to use. Unlike chemical-based repellents, essential oils pose no risks to your health. They can be used on children and adults without any concerns.
List Of Essential Oils
The following is a list of essential oils that can be used as bug repellents:
Lemon Eucalyptus Oil
Lemon eucalyptus oil is one of the most well-known natural repellents since it has been used for decades. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using eucalyptus oil as a mosquito repellent.
A study from 2014 found that a combination of 32 percent lemon eucalyptus oil provided more than 95 percent protection against mosquitoes for 3 hours.
Cinnamon Oil
Cinnamon is more than simply a topping for applesauce or oats. Cinnamon oil, according to a study in Taiwan, can destroy mosquito eggs. It also has the ability to repel adult mosquitoes, particularly the Asian tiger mosquito.
Thyme Oil
Thyme oil is one of the most effective plants for repelling malaria mosquitoes. In a 2002 animal study, 5% thyme oil was applied to the skin of hairless mice and resulted in a 91 percent protection rate.
Thyme leaves may also be burned in a campfire. According to a study by research, burning thyme leaves gives you 85 percent protection for 60 to 90 minutes.
Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is another good option for repelling mosquitoes. Lavender oil was found in an animal study from 2002 to be effective at repelling adult mosquitoes.
In addition to being an effective bug repellent, lavender oil also has a number of other benefits. It is often used as a natural remedy for anxiety and stress relief. Lavender oil can be used in a diffuser or diluted with water and applied to the skin.
Citronella
Citronella is a well-known natural and efficient essential oil that fights mosquitoes. It’s an active component in many mosquito repellents because it’s made up of a combination of herbs. Citronella candles can give up to 50% more protection when used outside.
According to research published in 2011, the combination of citronella is critical. When used correctly, it’s just as effective as DEET and can keep you protected for up to two hours. If the composition isn’t correct, citronella may evaporate quickly and leave you unprotected.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree essential oil, also known as melaleuca oil, is a prized essential oil from Australia. This oil has antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory qualities that have been recognized. Tea tree oil, however, appears to be an effective bug repellent in preliminary research.
According to field testing, mosquitoes, bush flies, and biting midges are also repelled by repellents containing tea tree oil.
Other examples of essential oils include; peppermint essential oil, coconut oil, and neem oil.
Health Benefits Of Essential Oils
Essential oils offer a number of health benefits, in addition to being an effective bug repellent.
For example, lavender oil is well known for its calming and relaxing properties. It can be used to reduce stress and anxiety, as well as to promote better sleep.
Tea tree oil is another popular essential oil that offers a number of health benefits. It has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties that make it useful for treating a variety of conditions, including acne, dandruff, and cold sores.
Rosemary oil is known for improving circulation, promoting hair growth, and boosting cognitive function.
Lemon Eucalyptus Essential oil can be used to improve digestion, relieve pain, and reduce inflammation. Additionally, lemongrass oil has been shown to be effective at killing bacteria and fungi.
How To Use Essential Oils Bug Repellents
There are a few different ways that you can use plant based insect repellents. The most popular method is to diffuse the oils into the air. This can be done with a diffuser or by adding a few drops of oil to your clothing.
Another way to use essential oils bug repellents is to apply them directly to your skin. You can do this by adding a few drops of oil to lotion or carrier oil and then applying it to your skin.
If you are using essential oils for the first time, it is always best to do a patch test on a small area of skin first before applying it over your entire body. This will help you determine if you have any allergies or sensitivities to the oil.
Essential oils are a safe and effective way to repel bugs. They offer a number of benefits over chemical-based repellents, including being safer for your health and the environment. If you are looking for a natural way to keep bugs away, consider using essential oils!
Frequently Asked Questions About Mosquito Repellents
Are There Other Ways To Reduce Mosquito Bites These Summer?
There are a variety of other things you may do to decrease the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes, even after applying bug spray, reapplying it when necessary, and selecting the appropriate clothing:
- Hang out in screened areas rather than open air. To prevent leaks, repair any holes or tears in the screens.
- If it’s an option, turn on the air conditioning rather than opening the windows to keep cool.
- Mosquitoes prefer to lay their eggs in still or slowly moving water. So empty, scrub, or dispose of such items as buckets, baby pools, pots, garbage cans, and birdbaths.
Avoid going outside during peak mosquito hours, which are between dusk and dawn.
What Clothing Prevents Mosquito Bites?
There are a number of clothing items that can help prevent mosquito bites. Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks are all good options. You can also treat your clothing with insect repellent for added protection.
If you are going to be in an area with a lot of mosquitoes, it is also a good idea to wear light-colored clothing. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors, so wearing lighter colors will make it less likely that they will bite you.
Conclusion
Natural and essential oils offer a number of benefits over chemical-based repellents. They are safer for your health and the environment and can be just as effective at repelling bugs. If you are looking for a natural way to keep bugs away, consider using essential oils!
Other ways to reduce mosquito bites include wearing the right clothing and staying in screened areas. You can also treat your clothing with insect repellent for added protection. Taking these steps will help you enjoy a mosquito-free summer!
Need An Essential Oil Bug Repellent? Get Ours!
Not all essential oils are equal. That is why our natural insect repellent is made from a blend of essential oils that work quickly and are harmless to the skin. If you’ve been looking for an essential oil bug repellent, we’ve got you covered. Get yours today!
Ingredients: Distilled Water, Non GMO Canola Oil, Natural Essential Oil Blend (including Citronella, Cedarwood, Palmarosa, Peppermint, Rosemary, Eucalyptus and Lemongrass).
