When that summer sun blazes down on you, it is very easy to get a sunburn, especially if you do not apply sunscreen. Maybe you apply sunscreen, but it isn’t good enough or not the right one for you. Sunscreens work to protect your skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, reduce the risk of skin cancer, and help prevent sunburn and premature aging. When you have a better understanding of sunscreen factors, including SPF, water resistance, and broad-spectrum protection, you can make a more educated choice about which product works best for your skin type. 

Is Lotion Better Than Spray?

A lot of people buy sunscreen sprays because they are easy to apply. The best type of sunscreen, be it a spray, gel, ointment, wax, lotion, or cream, is ultimately up to your personal preference. Just make sure that you choose an option that you will wear daily. Additionally, different formulas work better for different skin types. Some cream-based sunscreens may be better for dry skin, while a gel-based sunscreen caters to oily skin. A stick or wax may be easier to use on the face, while spray sunscreens can be great to apply on kids. Just try to avoid spray sunscreens that contain insect repellents, as insect repellents should be used sparingly. 

Look For Broad-Spectrum Protection

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends that you use broad-spectrum sunscreens because they provide protection from ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. UVA rays, or “aging rays,” can increase the risk of premature aging, wrinkles, and age spots. They can penetrate glass windows, so you can be at risk of sun damage even if you are inside. UVB rays, or “burning rays,” are the primary cause of sunburn. They can’t pass through glass windows, but you should still protect the skin from them. 

Choose SPF 30 Or Higher

Sun protection factor (SPF) is the number that represents how much UV radiation exposure the skin can take without burning. This number does not indicate the amount of time you can spend in the sun. Your skin type, how often you reapply, and the time of day can influence your risk of sunburn. Experts suggest that you reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you sweat a lot or go in the water. The AAD recommends using a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, which blocks 97% of the sun’s UVB rays. No sunscreen will block 100% of UVB rays, though. 

Are Mineral Sunscreens Better Than Chemical Sunscreens?

First and foremost, both are effective, but they contain different active ingredients. Mineral sunscreens typically contain titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, or both. They tend to leave a white residue on the skin, and dermatologists recommend them for people with sensitive skin, as they do not contain harsh chemicals. Chemical sunscreens do not contain titanium dioxide or zinc oxide; rather, they have a lighter formula that doesn’t leave a white residue on the skin. That said, chemical sunscreens do contain ingredients that can irritate the skin or pose threats to marine life and coral reefs. No matter which ones you choose, make sure to read the list of active ingredients. 

What Chemicals To Look Out For

There are certain ingredients in chemical sunscreens that can cause side effects, especially if you have sensitive skin, allergies, or a health condition. Some factors to consider:

• Environmental impact: Some chemicals in sunscreens can be harmful to coral reefs and marine life. A 2022 report from the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) urged the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to dig deeper into the impact of sunscreens on marine ecosystems. 
• Potential allergens: Avobenzone and octocrylene, among other ingredients, can cause allergic reactions like contact dermatitis. Fragrances, alcohols, and other preservatives can also cause reactions. Consider trying the sunscreen on a small patch of skin to see how your skin responds before lathering it all over your body. 
• Potential chemical absorption: Some sunscreen ingredients can actually linger in the bloodstream for extended periods. One study found that six ingredients, including oxybenzone, octocrylene, avobenzone, homosalate, octinoxate, and octisalate, were absorbed in the bloodstream after one use. The study noted that they reached levels in the blood that surpassed the FDA’s threshold. 

Match It To Your Skin Type

Some sunscreens are made specifically for certain skin types. If you thoroughly read a product’s label, you can determine if it is the right fit for your skin. If you have dry skin, you may want a sunscreen that contains moisturizers. Non-comedogenic and oil-free sunscreens may benefit those with acne-prone or oily skin. Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic sunscreens are excellent for sensitive skin.

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Entering the summer months is a wonderful time of year. You get to take vacations, enjoy fun in the sun, and explore in nature. Even if you don’t do all of those things and decide to enjoy grilling in the backyard, you run the risk of getting attacked by various bugs. Warmer weather means that pests become more active, especially as grass grows. Summer pests are drawn to grass and flowers, and the increased moisture means that they have more access to water. 

Common Summer Bugs

Mosquitoes are the problem children of summer, especially if you live in a humid climate. They hide in tall grass, so experts recommend keeping grass short (no more than three inches high) to help keep them at bay. Additionally, trim bushes, hedges, and plants to reduce the likelihood of mosquitoes ruining your summer. Plus, mosquitoes can expose you to a variety of viruses and fever, so do your best to fend them off. 

Besides mosquitoes, ants, wasps, hornets, ticks, and flies thrive during the summer months. Many of these bugs hatch or breed during the summer because of the heat and humidity. The last thing you want is for these pests to ruin your summer plans, so keep an eye out for them and act appropriately. 

Why Use Essential Oils?

Essential oils are highly concentrated with powerful scents, and bugs tend to not like them. When they get a good whiff of certain essential oils, they tend to steer clear of the area. For example, crickets and ants do not like the smell of peppermint essential oil. Gnats despise lemongrass essential oil, peppermint essential oil, and vanilla extract. You can use one essential oil or a combination to help keep those creepy, crawly, biting pests away. 

Peppermint and eucalyptus essential oils act as natural bug repellents for squash bugs, beetles, ants, fleas, spiders, aphids, and whiteflies. Some people even use these two essential oils to help repel mice. Lemongrass essential oil can help repel both flying and crawling pests without harming your plants, animals, or skin. It is especially great at repelling gnats. Rosemary essential oil can help repel flies, fleas, and mosquitoes. It is also a great garden plant to have because it can deter insect larvae, which can easily destroy cucumbers, tomatoes, melons, and even some root vegetables. 

Tea tree oil is another great one for keeping mosquitoes at bay, and even killing mosquitoes. If you already have some mosquito bites, tea tree oil may be great to apply to the area, as long as you dilute it with a carrier oil. Cedarwood essential oil is a powerful tick deterrent, and it’s safe to use for dogs, so long as you dilute it. You can soak dog collars in a cedarwood and water mixture to help keep ticks off them on summer hikes. 

DIY Bug Repellent Lotion Bars

Ingredients:

• 1 cup coconut oil
• 1/2 cup cocoa butter
• 1/2 cup shea butter
• 1 cup beeswax
• 30 drops essential oils of choice (pick one or two from the ones we mentioned)

Instructions:

• Add the coconut oil, cocoa butter, shea butter, and beeswax to the top of a double boiler over medium-low heat. Make sure that there is about an inch or two of water in the bottom of the boiler. 
• Stir the ingredients every so often until fully melted. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes before adding the essential oils. Mix well to combine.
• Pour the mixture into silicone molds or metal tins and allow the mixture to solidify, either at room temperature or in the fridge to accelerate the process. 
• Once completely solidified, remove the bars from the molds and store in an airtight container in a cool place for up to one year.

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When warmer weather arrives, so do the bugs. Insects like mosquitoes, flies, ticks, leafhoppers, hornworms, and more flock to your garden to infest your flowers and plants. If you’re sitting around the patio enjoying time with family, you don’t want to worry about bugs biting you every other second. The good news is that you can forget about trying to clap insects to their death mid-flight because there are plants that help repel bugs. 

If you don’t want to inhale the fumes of mosquito candles and torches all summer, you can plant a series of plants around your patio, pool, house, and fence to keep out unwanted pests. In addition to causing itchy bites, mosquitos and other pests can damage your gardens, crops and home. Using plants to repel insects is an eco-friendly solution to your problem. Plus, these plants add both beauty and fragrance to your home and garden. Here is a guide to many common plants that repel insects. 

Geraniums

Geraniums are quite common in patio planters, but you can also pot them or plant them in your garden to naturally repel mosquitos. These flowers not only beautify your garden, but they also release a strong fragrance that mosquitos, flies, and beetles despise. That helps you enjoy your patio or garden without worrying about bites or infestation of the fruits and vegetables in your garden. Plant some geraniums around your garden to keep those pests out. 

Mint

Fresh mint is a great plant to have in your garden because you can harvest some of it to use in culinary applications. It’s very easy to grow and has been proven to repel flies, ants, and mosquitos. It emits a wonderful fragrance and helps deter bugs from infesting other nearby plants. Planting mint near your windows or doorways can help keep irritating insects out of your house. 

Citronella

Don’t want to buy citronella candles or citronella-infused oil for tiki torches? Plant the real citronella plant in your garden or pots near your doors to keep the mosquitos out. The plant itself acts as a natural insecticide, repelling a variety of flying insects, including mosquitos. The plant can grow fairly large, so you may have to keep it under control with your garden scissors from time to time. 

Lemongrass

Similar to citronella, lemongrass gives off a powerful aroma that mosquitoes dislike. Lemongrass is tall, grassy, and ornamental, growing up to four feet tall and three feet wide in one season. Not only does the plant do a great job at repelling mosquitos, but it also adds beautiful greenery to your garden or patio. 

Lavender

Before we get into the insects that lavender repels, it is important to note that lavender blossoms can attract bees. If you are allergic to bees, planting lavender near your patio or doorways may not be the best idea. How does lavender repel bugs? It contains linalool, which is a compound that contributes to the plant’s natural aroma. Other plants also contain linalool, but lavender seems to have the highest content and is the most effective at repelling bugs. You can harvest your lavender and hang some bundles around your patio and indoors.

Marigolds

Marigolds add vibrant colors to your garden or patio planters. Ranging from red and orange to yellow, marigolds make the perfect additions to your vegetable garden bed. They help keep tomato hornworms away, so consider planting them next to your tomato plants. Marigolds are very popular summer plants that also deter plant lice, mosquitos, and even rabbits!

Chrysanthemums

The primary reason that insects avoid chrysanthemums is because the flower contains pyrethrin, a neurotoxin that kills insects. Don’t worry about your furry friends because it is safe for animals. According to research, the list of insects that these flowers repel is quite extensive, including  ants, roaches, silverfish, lice, fleas, spider mites, ticks, bedbugs, and harlequin bugs. Plus, the flowers are just stunning to look at!

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Besides being tiny little nuisances, ticks pose a serious health risk, as they can spread diseases. They have been known to spread Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. According to a 2018 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), tick-borne diseases more than doubled over the previous 13 years. Although a tick bite may not necessarily infect you with one of those diseases, it can cause irritation and discomfort.

If you enjoy going hiking or hanging at the beach during summer, it is possible that you will encounter some ticks. The best thing that you can do is to over-prepare by using an effective tick repellent. The problem with manufactured tick repellents is that they contain a lot of chemicals, many of which can harm the environment. If you want to take a more natural approach, there are various essential oils that may help repel ticks. Continue reading to learn which essential oils are the most effective. 

Essential Oils And Ticks

It is important to understand that most of the evidence on this topic is anecdotal, but there are studies that indicate that essential oils may effectively ward off ticks. To provide you with the best possible evidence, we looked at various studies that determined the efficacy of several essential oils for repelling ticks. As far as which oil is most effective? Well, that remains to be unknown at the moment, but we hope the following information helps you naturally repel ticks this summer. 

Clove Bud Essential Oil

One study analyzed 11 essential oils and found that clove bud essential oil was effective at repelling ticks. This finding has been substantiated by other studies from 2006 and 2018. Clove oil is actually an ingredient in a spider and tick repellent spray. You can make your own tick repellent using clove bud oil by adding 10 to 15 drops to one ounce of water. You can add solubol (used as a dispersant to help emulsify essential oils into water blends) if you so choose. Make sure to use a 4:1 ratio of solubol to water. 

Neem Seed Essential Oil

According to an animal study, neem seed oil was effective at killing tick larvae in cattle. There is strong anecdotal evidence, however, that suggests neem seed oil is great for repelling ticks. In fact, when applied to ticks, neem seed oil may help dislodge them from the skin. To use neem seed oil as a tick repellent, add equal parts neem seed oil to a carrier oil, mix well, and apply to the skin. Just make sure to do a patch test on your arm so you do not have an adverse reaction to the oil. 

Lemon Eucalyptus Essential Oil

This combination essential oil is like a one-two punch for insects. It is a classic oil in many insecticides, but you can make your own by adding 15 to 20 drops of lemon eucalyptus essential oil into four ounces of water. You can also add solubol to help distribute the oil in the water. As mentioned earlier, make sure to use a 4:1 ratio of solubol to water. Because lemon eucalyptus essential oil can be irritating to some skin types, dilute it in a carrier oil before topical application. And finally, make sure to do a patch test on a small area before applying more widely. 

Oregano Essential Oil

When it comes to repelling ticks and other insects, researchers note that oregano essential oil tops the list of many studies. Oregano oil contains cedrol, which was found to kill 100% of the ticks it came in contact with when used in high dosage during one study. Cedarwood essential oil also contains cedrol, which also makes it beneficial for repelling ticks. A separate study found that carvacrol, an antioxidant compound in oregano oil, was effective at killing the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. That makes oregano oil beneficial for warding off ticks or if a tick bite occurs. Mix five to six drops of oregano oil in one ounce of carrier oil and apply it to exposed skin using a cotton ball. Do not applyfFull strength oregano oil to the skin, as it is too strong. 

Thyme And Citronella Essential oil Combination

Citronella essential oil is commonly used as a biopesticide that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registered as an insect repellent in 1997. One study found that both thyme and citronella essential oil were able to ward off ticks. To make your own tick repellent with these essential oils, add 10 to 15 drops of citronella essential oil and five drops of thyme essential oil to one ounce of water. You can also add solubol to help distribute the oil in the water. As mentioned earlier, make sure to use a 4:1 ratio of solubol to water. Spray on the skin or clothing to repel ticks.

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Do you panic when you see a spider? Maybe you do and maybe you don’t, but you probably are not a fan of the creepy crawlers. Not all spiders are scary, though. Some actually benefit your home by controlling indoor insects like fruit flies. When you see a black widow, you want it gone and you want it gone as soon as possible. 

When you want pests out of your home, you most likely reach for chemical insecticide sprays. Most household bug sprays contain plant-derived chemicals, known as pyrethrins. Interestingly enough, these chemicals were originally isolated from chrysanthemum flowers and are not harmful, generally. They can, however, cause life-threatening breathing problems if you inhale them. 

When it comes to stronger insecticides (think commercial farm-grade), they contain far more dangerous substances. Some of these chemicals include organophosphates, carbamates, and paradichlorobenzenes (mothballs). 

Spiders Dislike Peppermint Oil

Spiders do not like peppermint oil at all. Because they taste with their legs, peppermint oil is an effective way to keep them out of your home. Another theory is that essential oils contain monoterpenoids, which are fumigants. That may play a role in the insecticide properties. A 2010 thesis found that peppermint oil effectively repelled Argentine ants for up to one week after application. The study concluded that essential oils were viable alternatives to chemical repellents. There aren’t a lot of studies to back up this claim, but there is a lot of anecdotal evidence that supports the fact that peppermint oil can get rid of spiders. 

Dish Soap

Does dish soap make the surface slippery and spiders lose their balance on it when they crawl over it? No, this is 100% fiction and we hope you did not think that was the reason. Dish soap, when mixed with the distilled water and peppermint essential oil, disturbs the egg cycle of spiders. Additionally, spiders dislike strong scents, as is the case with peppermint essential oil. So a lemon- orange-scented dish soap will enhance the intensity of the aroma. This should keep spiders away!

Before you start spraying the DIY anti-spider spray all over your house, make sure to remove food sources. Spiders will not live in a place that has an inadequate amount of food. Wash your fruits and vegetables and clean up any crumbs or food bits on your counters. Wash out your trash bins, clean your stovetop, and run garbage disposals. Make sure you sweep under your tables or counters, where crumbs may hide. Do your due diligence to clean up and that will help keep spiders and other insects away. 

3-Ingredients Spider Spray

Ingredients:

• 2 cups distilled water
• 20 drops peppermint essential oil
• 1 teaspoon dish soap

Instructions:

• Pour the water, peppermint essential oil, and dish soap into a spray bottle, screw on the top, and shake well to combine. 
• Spray around window sills, crevices, and corners where spiders like to hide. You can spray these areas weekly to help repel spiders from your home. 
• If you don’t like the scent of peppermint essential oil, feel free to use eucalyptus, tea tree, or citronella essential oils instead. You can experiment with different mixtures to see which ones are the most effective.
• Because children and pets are sensitive to essential oils, be mindful of this and do your research about which ones to avoid and which ones to use.

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If you are familiar with mosquitos, then you probably know about citronella. The plant exhibits an aroma that mosquitos do not like, but the plant is so much more than a natural insect repellent. More importantly, the oil that is extracted from the plant has been used for centuries in China, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia. It was primarily used to help reduce the severity of rashes, inflammation, infections, general pain, and more. 

What Is Citronella Oil?

According to research studies, pure citronella essential oil exhibits amazing antibacterial and antifungal properties. The various compounds in this oil may also exhibit the following health benefits: 

• Fights bacteria and fungi
• Helps fight free radical damage
• Naturally repels insects
• Promotes relaxation
• Reduces inflammation

Currently, there are more than 30 species of citronella plants grown widely throughout certain parts of the world. Although there are that many varieties of the plant, there are only two types of citronella used to achieve pure citronella oil. There is the Java type and the Ceylon type, both of which come from parts of Asia, especially in Sri Lanka. Of the two plant types, Java seems to be more powerful, which is why it is usually more expensive. 

Citronella exhibits a similar scent to citrus fruits, wood, and cinnamon. Researchers believe that geraniol, a major constituent of citronella oil, is the active ingredient behind the oil’s health benefits. It may exhibit anthelmintic, antioxidant, anticonvulsant, and wound-healing effects. Continue reading to learn more about the health benefits of citronella oil. 

May Help Manage Inflammation And Pain

One review published in the year 2000 examined 34 different citrus essential oils and their compounds for free radical activity. The researchers noted many citrus volatile components, including the main type, geraniol, found in citronella oil. Geraniol exhibited high antioxidant capabilities, which work to fight free radicals that can cause cell damage. The antioxidant and natural pain-relieving properties may help manage inflammation or painful symptoms like achy joints. 

Acts As A Natural Perfume

The fresh, clean aroma of citronella oil is very similar to lemon or lemongrass, making citronella oil great for soaps, candles, perfumes, and more. A lot of people like to naturally deodorize the home with citronella oil for that reason. You can use a little bit in your dishwasher, refrigerator, laundry machine, and more, placing a few drops in each appliance when you run it. 

Exhibits Natural Antifungal And Antibacterial Properties

Citronella oil may be an effective skin care aid, due to the antifungal and antibacterial properties. Because it acts as both an antifungal and antibacterial agent, citronella oil may benefit common skin complaints, such as acne or athlete’s foot. Other studies found that citronella oil may help get rid of nail fungus and candida. To make a topical citronella spray, always dilute a one to one ratio with a carrier oil, such as olive oil or sweet almond oil. 

May Help Destroy Parasites

In vitro research found that geraniol exhibits strong anthelmintic activity, meaning it helps expel worms and parasites. It does this by either stunning or killing them without damaging the host. That is why citronella essential oil is common in parasite cleanses. It may even help prevent external and internal infections from these worms or parasites. 

An All-Natural Insect Repellent

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), citronella is a biopesticide. That means that it is a natural, non-toxic ingredient against potentially harmful insects, such as mosquitos. Since 1948, citronella has been registered as a gentle bug spray repellent in the U.S. Studies found that citronella could repel Aedes aegypti mosquitos, which are capable of spreading Zika and dengue fever. Additional research notes that citronella may be effective against head lice, flies, and ticks. Using citronella oil seems to be more effective at repelling insects than lighting citronella candles or incense sticks. 

May Help Control Pets

This seems like a strange ability, but research shows that citronella oil may get dogs to stop barking. Dog owners may know that certain anti-bark collars contain citronella for that reason. Collars that contain citronella seem to be as effective as electronic collars, and may be viewed in a more positive light. You can also add several drops of citronella oil to a spray bottle full of water and spray it throughout your home. This will deter dogs from climbing or peeing on furniture. It also helps to control pests, bacteria, and odors.

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If you like cinnamon then you clicked on the right article because these candles are better than any air freshener. Cinnamon candles are very simple to make, but they make up for it in their enchanting, fall-themed scent. They will fill your home with the smell of holiday nostalgia or the changing leaves. 

The recipe requires soy wax that you will infuse with cassia essential oil. You can add additional flavors to make cinnamon vanilla or cinnamon apple candles, but that will be at your discretion. Not only do these candles go great in your house, but they also make perfect gifts. If you are the type of person that likes to get a head start on holiday gifts, you can experiment with these candles and start setting them aside. Make the decorations extra nice so you don’t have to rush at the last minute!

Cinnamon Candle Benefits

In aromatherapy, cinnamon essential oil helps to reduce feelings of faintness, exhaustion, and depression. Some people use it to help strengthen libido and immunity, while others use it to reduce joint and muscle pain. When you diffuse cinnamon essential oil in indoor environments, the scent naturally deodorizes and freshens the space. The uplifting fragrance carries throughout the space and has a soothing, therapeutic effect. Many aromatherapists recommend cinnamon essential oil if you want to benefit cognitive functions. It also acts as a natural mosquito repellent! 

What Is The Best Cinnamon Essential Oil For Candles?

Cinnamon essential oil can come from the leaves or outer bark of the cinnamon tree. There isn’t just one cinnamon essential oil; rather, there are three different cinnamon oils. Here is a quick overview of those oils:

• Cinnamon Leaf: This comes from distilling the leaves of the Cinnamomum zeylanicum plant. Cinnamon leaf essential oil has a lighter, muskier cinnamon aroma that is akin to clove’s scent, and the color is slightly amber. 
• Cinnamon Bark: This essential oil comes from distilling the bark of the Ceylon cinnamon plant (Cinnamomum zelanicum, Cinnamomum verum). The oil is slightly red-brown in color and has a warm and spicy scent with a strong undertone of cinnamon.
• Cassia: Steam-distilled from the bark of the cassia tree (Cinnamomum cassia), cassia essential oil is genetically similar to the Ceylon cinnamon plant species. The oil has a slightly sweet cinnamon smell and is golden brown in color. 

All of the above oils are perfectly suitable for candle making. We recommend that you choose cassia essential oil because it has a strong aroma with a hint of sweetness that makes it smell like someone baked cinnamon cookies in the house. It is also more affordable than cinnamon bark essential oil. If you already have a cinnamon essential oil that you prefer, please go ahead and use that. 

DIY Cinnamon Soy Candles

Ingredients:

• 4.5 cups soy wax flakes
• 200 drops cassia essential oil
• 4 pre-tapped cotton candle wicks
• 4 (four-ounce) mason jars

Instructions:

• First off, you have to prep your candle containers. Make sure they are clean, dry, and free of dust. You have to attach the wick to the bottom of the candle container prior to pouring the wax in the jar. 
• To do that, apply hot glue to the bottom of the wick tap and then adhere it to the bottom of the containers. Allow the glue to harden before moving on. 
• To secure the wick, thread it through a wick-centering device, which ensures that the wick stays centered and doesn’t sway when you pour the wax in the jar. 
• Melt your wax in a medium-sized saucepan over low flame. Stir occasionally until the wax is fully melted and then remove from the heat. 
• Allow the wax to cool to 185º F and then add the cassia essential oil. Stir about 30-40 times to properly combine the wax and essential oil.
• Pour the wax into the candle jars and allow the wax to set at room temperature overnight. 
• For the best cinnamon candle, seal the container and allow your candles to cure for one or two days. That will allow the wax and essential oil to bind together and build a stronger scent. 
• Trim the wick to a half-inch above the wax before burning for the first time. Light and enjoy the aroma.

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People aren’t the only ones who love to spend time outdoors when the temperatures rise. Mosquitos, flies, and ticks buzz around and bite as many people as they can. Mosquito bites tend to be small, itchy, and annoying, while bites from ticks can be more serious and increase the risk of Lyme disease. There are some people who get bit by mosquitos and experience large, swollen bumps that take a couple days to disappear. 

The most common way to repel mosquitos is by spraying yourself with DEET, according to a 2018 survey. The reason for this is because DEET spray has the longest lasting effect against these buzzing pests. There are more concerns about the side effects of using DEET, including redness, swelling, skin irritation, and rash. DEET does pose several dangers to the body, even though the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says that you don’t need to worry. 

If you don’t want to coat yourself in harmful chemicals, there are several ways to thwart mosquitos during the summer. One survey found that 36% of people prefer to use natural repellents and tactics to prevent mosquito bites instead of using DEET spray. Learn about effective mosquito-repelling tips below. 

Catnip Oil

People know about catnip for the effect it has on cats, but they don’t know that it is a unique culinary herb and mosquito repellant. Catnip oil is acquired from catnip via steam distillation, but applying it on the skin will not attract cats to you. The process of extracting the oil gets rid of the effect it has on cats. According to the EPA, catnip oil may effectively repel mosquitos for up to seven hours. 

Change Your Light Bulbs

Mosquitos are attracted to light, but not all kinds of it. They tend to buzz towards standard light bulbs. To prevent mosquitos from swarming your house, install some LEDs, sodium lamps, or yellow bug lights. These lights may reduce the number of mosquitos that buzz near entrances to your home. 

Remove Standing Water

If you want to limit the amount of mosquitos in or around your home, make sure that you eliminate all standing water. Getting rid of standing water makes it so mosquitos and other insects cannot breed easily. Clear out gutters to avoid clogs, remove tarps or debris that collect water, and change the water in your birdbath frequently. Additionally, don’t let a kiddie pool sit out overnight without emptying the water the night before. 

Lemon Eucalyptus

A 2014 study found that lemon eucalyptus essential oil offered 100% protection against mosquitos for up to 12 hours. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) classified lemon eucalyptus essential oil as an EPA-registered repellent. Because of this, it is an active ingredient in many mosquito repellents. 

Buy Some Plants

There are several plants that deter insects like ticks, mosquitos, and flies. Citronella, for example, produces natural oils that help keep mosquitos at bay. Other flowers, including petunias, rosemary, geraniums, floss flowers, sage, marigolds, and chrysanthemums work to effectively repel mosquitos and other insects. You can learn more about that by clicking here. 

Peppermint Oil

Peppermint essential oil exhibits an array of health benefits. Some people use it to clear up congestion, while others use it to help promote wound healing. Several studies revealed that peppermint oil is a natural insecticide and mosquito repellent. You can mix this peppermint essential oil with other scents, including lemon essential oil, and a carrier oil. Apply the mixture to the skin before you go outside to repel mosquitos. A quick tip about essential oils is to do a small patch test on your arm to see whether you have a reaction to the oil or not.

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Everyone is familiar with the irritating, itchy sensation of a bug bite. The itchiness starts almost immediately after the insect bites. Slapping the bite, scratching around the bite, or applying cold compresses can only provide so much relief. Is there a natural relief ointment or cream that proves effective for relieving itchiness? The anti-itch bug bite sticks in this article may be exactly what you need. 

Even though summer is almost over, bug bite season is not. Insects tend to stick around until the beginning of fall, getting in every last bite possible. All of the fly strips, bug zappers, swatters, citronella sticks, and more cannot seem to win the war against insects. They always find a way past your defenses and get you when you least expect it.

Why You Shouldn’t Scratch A Bug Bite

The last thing you want to do is scratch the bite to the point of bleeding. Scratching a bug bite, especially a mosquito bite, makes the itching worse. Bug bites itch because of inflammation and scratching something that is already inflamed only increases the inflammation. That’s why bug bites itch more after you itch them. If you break the skin as a result of scratching, it can increase the risk of infection, itchiness, and it can make the healing process take longer.

Calendula Flower

Some people refer to calendula as the Swiss Army knife of the forest. It has many healing properties and can help relieve diaper rash, itchy eyes, wounds, dandruff, sunburn, and bug bites. It exhibits antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which accelerate the healing process while simultaneously reducing itchiness. 

Beeswax

Beeswax has powerful properties that help to heal and protect the skin. The anti-inflammatory properties help accelerate wound healing and create a protective barrier on the skin. This helps to protect the skin from the environment and can relieve itching in the process. Additionally, beeswax exhibits antibacterial properties, which help to keep the skin clean and reduce the risk of more inflammation or contamination. 

Lavender

If you’ve seen a lavender bush, you know that many bugs are attracted to it. More often than not, bees collect pollen from the flowers and bring it back to their hives. Well, as it turns out, lavender is a popular remedy for treating bug bites. The soothing properties are similar to that of chamomile and help to relieve pain or itchiness. Several studies found that it proves most effective for spider bites, fire ant bites, and bee stings. That being said, the notable anti-inflammatory properties work to relieve bug bites from all insects. 

DIY Anti-Itch Bug Bite Sticks

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup sunflower oil
• 1/8 cup calendula flowers
• 1/8 cup lavender flowers
• 1 tablespoon beeswax

Instructions:

• Pour the oil in a glass canning jar and add the calendula and lavender flowers. Stir a few times to ensure that there are no air bubbles. 
• Screw the top on the jar and place it in a windowsill for about three weeks for a slow infusion. 
• If you want a quicker infusion process, set a heat-safe glass jar with the oil and flowers in a saucepan containing a few inches of water over low heat. 
• Keep an eye on the oil for about two hours and then strain the oil, discarding the flowers. 
• Add the beeswax to a heat-safe glass jar along with 3 tablespoons of the infused oil that you reserved. Place it in a saucepan with a few inches of water in it over low heat. 
• Allow the beeswax to melt and stir well to combine. 
• Remove from the heat carefully and pour into lip balm tubes or tins. Allow the mixture to harden completely before putting on the tops. 
• To use the bug bite sticks, dab the bug bite with them as needed to relieve itchiness. 

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Back in the day of traditional farming, nobody ever thought to use pesticides on their crops. Although pests existed, farmers managed to grow what they needed, using natural solutions to stave off irritating pests. Nowadays, it’s perfectly normal to use chemical pesticides during agricultural practices. Just spray poison on the crops, which people inevitablly consume, and the pests go away. 

The Problem With Pesticides

Well, there isn’t just one single problem; rather, there are many. Pesticide sprays don’t single out the harmful insects from the beneficial ones. For example, they kill bees and butterflies and allow smaller predator populations to recover. They slowly develop a dependence on the chemical sprays, as opposed to the other natural systems. Additionally, plants may also become dependent on chemicals to grow properly. That is all to say that it’s time to get back to repelling insects the natural way, with companion plants. Repelling insects in this fashion actually increases biodiversity and enhances the ecosystems. The following plants may help to keep harmful pests away from what you are trying to grow. 

Alliums

This belongs to the onion family and the flowers are beautiful purple balls that bloom from tall green spikes, which are reminiscent of scallions. Alliums have been known to repel numerous pests, including slugs, carrot flies, cabbage worms, and aphids. These pests dislike the powerful aroma of alliums. 

Borage

Borage is an edible plant, with the flowers and leaves being safe for consumption. If you eat the leaves, make sure to choose the young varieties, otherwise they get fuzzy. The flavor is similar to that of a cucumber. They help attract bees and use deep taproots to pull up nutrients from deeper soil, depositing them on the surface. It also works to repel tomato hornworms and cabbage worms. 

Marigolds

Mosquitos, aphids, plant lice, and even rabbits avoid marigolds because they have a potent aroma. Fruit and vegetable farmers have used these little flowering plants to repel pests for many years. They are very easy to grow, especially in flower beds or planters. Make sure that they receive ample sunlight to thrive. 

Petunias

If you want to protect members of the brassica family (cruciferous vegetables), you’ll do well to plant petunias in the vicinity. The vibrant colors are signature to these wonderful flowers. Leafhoppers, tomato hornworms, aphids, and squash bugs do not like these flowers. 

Mosquito Plant

Yes, this is in fact a legitimate plant that offers a lacy green foliage and purple flowers. It’s also called citronella-scented geranium, and it is effective at repelling mosquitos. Mosquitos despise the citrusy aroma that comes from the plant’s natural oils. If you have lots of them flying around your yard, plant a couple to help repel mosquitos. 

Sunflowers

These are great garden companions because they help repel pests. Additionally, they are quite beautiful and distract aphids and white flies away from nearby plants. Those pests don’t actually have a negative effect on sunflowers, but they will harm other crops. Plant a few and see how the surrounding crops thrive. 

Chrysanthemums

Beetles, ticks, roaches, fleas, lice, mites, and ants will flee your garden when chrysanthemums are present. Several studies found that the extracts from the flowers can actually kill some of the aforementioned insects. In fact, chrysanthemum extract is a common ingredient in many residential insecticide products. This explains why pests steer clear of them.

Basil

There’s an enchanting quality to basil’s fresh aroma. Moths, mosquitos, and flies do not agree with this sentiment. In fact, they will steer clear of basil because of the potent scent. If you’re in a pinch and need to repel bugs away from your body, crush some basil leaves in your hand and rub them on your skin. You won’t have mosquito problems after that. 

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