Dealing with bugs within our homes and environs can be very exhausting. More often than not we deal with these bugs using chemical bug repellents. Is this the best way? Definitely not.
One might argue – ‘But it gets the job done, so far it works-it’s good enough for me. Well, it goes beyond that. The harmful and toxic chemicals present within these repellants poses great health risks.
Now if I were you, I’d create enough distance between myself and such danger posing products. If you do not still think there’s not enough reason to discard a working chemical repellent, here are a few things to consider:
Still Thinking About Chemical Repellents?
In a lot of chemical repellents, there are some chemicals that are extremely harmful. Chemicals like; D.E.E.T, Cyfluthrin, Permethrin, and Pyrethroid.
D.E.E.T is an acronym for N,N -Diethyl-meta-toluamide. Dangerous as it is, it is one of the most effective bug repellents. Some of the problems caused by it include Skin blisters, seizures, memory loss, headaches, stiffness in the joints, shortness of breath, and skin irritation.
It is also linked to neurotoxicity and has ties with behavioral and physiological problems especially learning, motor skills, and memory dysfunction.
Negative Effects
In studies carried out on animals, researchers found DEET in fetuses and newborns for up to three months after the mother had exposure to it. Apart from its many health risks, DEET is harmful to the environment too. It breaks down slowly within the soil and can lead to the contamination of groundwater.
Cyfluthrin is also connected to neurotoxicity. It interferes with the potassium and sodium ion pathways in the nerves. This interference can give rise to many issues.
Issues like decreased glucose and red blood cells. Cyfluthrin within the atmosphere is dangerous to fish, honey bees, and aquatic invertebrates. Pyrethroids are the most common chemical class for a lot of bug repellent chemicals.
Some severe reactions to this class of chemicals include feelings of nausea, incoordination, dermatitis, itching, and burning sensations amongst others. With all the risk factors outlined above, without any doubt, I’m sure there’s an internal resolve to put an end to the usage of these products. “How do I then protect myself? “, “What do I use?”.
Benefits Of Natural Bug Repellents
If these are some of the questions that crossed your mind, relax, the answers are right here. Waste no time in exploring the beautiful world of natural bug repellents. Some natural bug repellent alternatives are the oil of lemon eucalyptus and soy-based products.
Also, repellents that have lemongrass, citronella, grapefruit, peppermint, and clove oil. You can also make natural bug repellents at home (DIY bug repellents). These repellents do not contain chemicals and are free from health risks and complicating compounds. With the new decision to use natural bug repellents, I’m sure you also can tell some of the merits and enormous advantages. If you don’t, we’ll outline a few of these benefits below:
- The freedom from dangerous toxins and in effect, health complications
- Friendly and kind reactions to sensitive skins
- Pleasant fragrances in addition to effective bug repulsion.
- Applicability for pets as they are healthy for them.
If you want to secure yourself and your family from bugs and insects? Do it the right way and adopt natural bug repellents today.
