The thought of summer being right around the corner likely evokes imagery of long lake days, bbq’s, baseball games, and…mosquitos?
MOSQUITOS!
Nearly everyone loves summer, but few appreciate the influx of insects that come with seasonally warm temperatures – especially the pesky mosquitoes. Not only are they a nuisance, but their bites can result in itching, swelling, redness, and in extremely rare cases, diseases as serious as the Zika virus.
Getting Rid Of Mosquitoes
If you’ve been optimistically hoping that your six-legged, bloodsucking friends will have succumbed to extinction over the winter, think again. Mosquitos have been around since the Jurassic period and will likely remain long after we’re gone.
Luckily, there are several options available to help us combat the pesky insects and keep them from ruining our outdoor summer activities. The most common being a wide range of over the counter repellents that can be sprayed directly on the skin or clothes. While the sprays are generally effective, most contain a chemical known as DEET which has been shown to cause health problems ranging in severity from mild skin irritations to nervous system interference.
For this reason, it is recommended that when possible, you should avoid these products and opt for natural bug sprays.
Natural Insect Repellents
Citronella essential oil
This oil is extracted from lemongrass and repels mosquitoes and other flying insects with its potent scent.
Lemon eucalyptus essential oil
Numerous studies have shown that when extracted from the leaves of the lemon eucalyptus tree this oil acts as a highly effective mosquito repellent.
Citrus fruits
Similarly, studies have proven that the peels of citrus fruits are beneficial for repelling mosquitoes when placed around the perimeter of a space.
Homemade Bug-Repelling Mason Jar Recipe
When combined together, essential oils and citrus fruits make a very effective mosquito repellent. Here’s what you will need:
- 2 mason jars
- One lemon, sliced
- One lime, sliced
- 10 drops of lemon eucalyptus essential oil
- 10 drops of citronella essential oil
- 4 rosemary sprigs
- Floating disc candles
Instructions:
- Add even amounts of lemon and lime slices to each jar.
- Add 2 sprigs of rosemary to each.
- Fill the jar with ¾ water and add 10 drops of the essential oils to a specific jar (do not mix).
- Activate the recipe by lighting a candle.
These bug-repelling jars will make a great addition to your outdoor spaces this summer. Give this recipe a try and you’ll be amazed by the health conscious results!
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