Natural Bug Repellent

Bugs, insects, mosquitos, ants... these are just a few of the creepy crawlies that make our lives uncomfortable. Some of them are downright dangerous, even deadly! And there are many popular repellents available at the local supermarket. Cutter, OFF!, and others. The problem is, these all use the poison DEET. This is a proven insecticide, and can be irritating to human skin. It can be highly irritating to the eyes, and downright poisonous if swallowed. Since many folks don't like the idea of applying a poison to their skin, they want all natural, organic alternatives to DEET and similar chemical repellents.

The good news is, there are several natural herbs and organic remedies that are effective at repelling bugs and insects. Most importantly, these are generally much safer than the toxic synthetic compounds used in most commercial bug sprays.

The top 3 herbal, organic natural bug repellents:

Citronella for Mosquitos and Flies -
This herbal bug repellent has had such positive results, it has been approved by the F.D.A. for use to deter bugs and insects from people. It can be purchased for use as a Citronella based cream, used as a tincture to be diluted by an essential oil such as almond oil, or even added to a white wine vinegar and water spray, and applied via a mist. The only downside is Citronella evaporates quickly, and will need to be reapplied every 30-60 minutes. However, it will keep the bugs away. If you'd prefer not to rub it on, purchase a citronella candle, because when they burn, they too keep bugs away.

Cedar Oil for Fleas -
Cedar Oil is extracted from the bark of Cedar Trees, and fleas hate it. Used properly, it is an all natural, organic insect repellent that will keep fleas far away from your family, furniture, and pets. It is best if mixed with citronella oil, to increase its effective duration and keep mosquitos away as well. Dilute cedar oil in distilled water or rubbing alcohol, and you can use it as a spray for carpeting, furniture, and clean pet bedding. Also, just a few drops mixed with your pets shampoo can keep the fleas away with an all natural safe essential oil.

Crushed Cloves and Chalk for Ants -
Cloves, once crushed, can be spread around any entry point or exit point ants are using, and they will stop using it. Also, a thick chalk line drawn around an entry or exit point will deter them as well. These are both natural, effective ways to deter ant infestions. Just keep the crushed cloves away from small children and pets.

These natural bug repellents are effective at stopping many insects, and are generally much safer to use than the chemical pesticides and insecticides sold in hardware stores.