Keep Bugs at Bay
June 11, 2008
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Swarming mosquitoes, relentless black or deer flies, and other pesky bugs can take the fun out of any outdoor adventure. While most people would like these pests to just go away, many popular insect repellents contain harsh and potentially dangerous chemicals. If you aren’t crazy about the idea of these substances soaking into your (or your child’s) skin, a number of herbs and essential oils are powerful repellents.
When you think of insect repellents, most common brands that come to mind list DEET as the active ingredient. Although DEET is an effective repellent, recent research suggests it may have adverse effects on the brain, especially in the developing fetus and young children.
Several herbs and essential oils may help fend off insects. Basil is primarily used as a seasoning here in the U.S. But in other parts of the world it’s commonly rubbed on the skin as an insect repellent. Lemongrass can also be crushed and rubbed directly on your skin.
Citrus essential oils also repel insects, and crushed lemon thyme has 62 percent of DEET’s repellency. A recent study finds traditional thyme to repel mosquitoes as long as or longer than DEET. Research even holds promise for catnip. In one study, catnip oil was better at keeping bugs away than DEET for three species of mosquitoes.
Don’t let pesky insects cramp your outdoor fun. Rather than reaching for conventional bug spray, look for herbs, essential oils, and insect repellents made with safe and natural ingredients.
