Summer is here, which means you’re probably spending more time outdoors. Whether your favorite summer activity is camping, hiking, spending a day at the beach or pool, biking or simply sitting on the back porch and enjoying the warm weather, you’re sure to spot a few bugs this year. While preventing insect bites is preferred to treating them, most commercial insect repellants contain a chemical known as DEET, which has been found to have harmful health effects. Luckily, there are plenty of chemical-free ways you can avoid being a summertime snack this year.
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Many insects, especially mosquitoes, require water to breed, so be sure to drain any and all sources of standing water around your house and yard, including pet bowls, gutters, garbage bins and recycling bins. When it comes to clothing, light colored, loose fitting clothing offers the greatest protection. Fortunately, highly effective insect repellents composed of natural botanical oils and extracts do exist. You can also make your own repellent using:
- Cinnamon leaf oil
- Clear vanilla oil mixed with olive oil
- Wash with citronella soap, then put some 100% pure citronella essential oil on your skin. Java citronella is considered the highest quality citronella on the market
- Catnip oil
If you do get stung or bitten this summer, keep a few herbs and natural agents on hand to help treat the itch and inflammation that follows. Some of the most soothing and anti-inflammatory natural treatments for bug bites include:
- Aloe Vera — It contains over 130 active compounds and 34 amino acids beneficial to your skin
- Calendula — This herb provides soothing, moisturizing and rejuvenating properties
- Chamomile — This is one of the most soothing herbs, whether used in a tea or applied to the skin
- Cinnamon — It offers antibacterial and antifungal properties in addition to mosquito repellent properties
- Cucumbers — They offer soothing and cooling properties, which can help reduce swelling
- Raw organic honey — Manuka honey is an especially powerful variety
- Lavender — One of the most popular oils for its calming scent, it offers antimicrobial properties
- Neem oil — This oil is effective against fungal conditions, boils, eczema, ringworm and insect bites
- Tea tree oil — This can help heal cuts, burns, bites and infections due to its antimicrobial properties
- Basil — Basil contains camphor and thymol, compounds that can help relieve itching
- Lemon and lime — Both offer anti-itch, antimicrobial and antibacterial properties
- Peppermint — The cooling sensation of peppermint can help block itching and provide temporary relief