Repelling Mosquitoes Safely

This time of year, trying to relax in your backyard can all be difficult when biting insects find you and your family to be tasty treats! Until recently there has only been one solution for these insects, specifically mosquitoes... DEET. This chemical, which can be absorbed through the skin, has been linked to neurological damage, seizures and even death. It can be especially harmful to children, which is why its use should be strictly limited with children. Yet, most of the products on the market today still contain DEET, or organophosphate pesticide malathion, another chemical. When thinking of living GREEN, we must think of limiting our exposure to chemicals- DEET being one of them. Mosquitoes are well-known carriers of the West Nile virus, so it is imperative that we protect ourselves and our family members from, not only the chemicals associated with ridding ourselves of mosquitoes, but of the mosquitoes themselves. Below are a few fabulous options for repelling those pesky insects:

Home-made Mosquito Repellents

Good herbs that repel mosquitoes include basil, eucalyptus, cloves, geranium, peppermint, rosemary, lemon balm (citronella), onions, garlic, and feverfew.

You can make your own essential oils repellent with this recipe:

Mosquito Repellent Oil

10 drops essential oil (see list of herbs, above, for choices)

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Combine the ingredients in a glass jar; stir to blend. Dab a few drops on your skin or clothing.

Note: Pregnant women should consult with their doctor before using essential oils.

The Outdoor Environment

Any place with still, standing water is conducive to mosquito hatchings, so the water should be removed from all of these places.

Green Insect Repellent

For those who want a fast and effective approach to mosquito repellent, try Liquid Net The Ultimate Insect Repellent. It is completely DEET free and is made from all natural, pleasant smelling ingredients like lemon grass, cedarwood, and citronella oils. These long lasting essential oils can be applied to everyone in your family, including children. Liquid Net The Ultimate Insect Repellent comes in convenient pump sprays that fit in pockets, purses and backpacks. Check out MotherEarthGardening's collection of Green Insect Repellents: http://www.motherearthgardening.com

Mother Earth Gardening: Organic Gardening for Outdoor Living Spaces

Green gardening supplies to make your backyard a home. http://www.MotherEarthGardening.com