Showing posts with label Mosquitoes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mosquitoes. Show all posts

Sunday, February 20, 2011

What Are Some Plants That Repel Mosquitoes?


When enjoying your porch or patio in the evening, you might have some mosquito problems. Sprays can repel them. Candles can do the job as well getting rid of mosquito problems in the area. One solution to mosquito problems is planting plants that can help repel mosquitoes. Enough of these plants around your porch or other area that you like to enjoy yourself, you can have a natural barrier to mosquito problems.

Rosemary - This herb helps with mosquito problems. The issue with this plant is that it only grows well in hotter environments. If you are in a cold environment, you can get rosemary oil to help with the problem.

Marigolds - These plants have been used for insect problems for quite sometime. Organic gardeners have used these to repel aphids. Mosquitoes happen to not like this scent as well.

Catnip - This plant works a bit different because it's normally applied to the skin to repel mosquitoes. Grow it around your yard and from time to time use it on the skin if mosquitoes are in the area.

Citronella Grass - This plant is used for many natural mosquito repellents because of it's oil, citronella oil. This too is normally applied to the skin. It's also found in many commercial products for controlling mosquito issues.

Also consider growing these plants as they are effective against mosquitoes and other pests: garlic, peppermint, lemon balm, lavender, clove, eucalyptus, and ageratum.

Some plants work better when turned into oils that can be put on the skin or even burned to make an aroma that repels mosquitoes. Many of these scents and smells are found in some of the more natural mosquito control products. You can purchase the little pots that sit on your table to keep the mosquitoes away. They work to a certain degree but not always. Depends on how bad the mosquitoes are at that time.

While these might not be a total solution to mosquito problems, these plants will help. It's less likely mosquitoes are going to breed in areas heavy with scents that they don't like that much.

One way of controlling mosquito problems is with plants. Find out which plants can repel mosquito problems in your yard. Don't let the summer go without enjoying the outdoors in your yard. Being outside when the mosquitoes are being a pest can make the outdoors not very inviting. Using the plants will eliminate using the bug spray so much.








Phil has been writing articles for several years for his many websites on different subjects. His current project at http://www.officephonesystemsonline.com will help people choose office phone systems that meet their communications requirements for their office.


Thursday, February 17, 2011

Mosquitoes Quiver at the Sight of Insect Repellent Clothing


Insect repellent comes in a number of forms and for those in areas that have serious insect infestations, there is a need to know about all of them. Insect repellent clothing is one of the most effective ways to ensure your entire body is protected, but there are other methods of repelling insects, including personal sprays, wipes and patches and bands are other popular methods. The military has considered insect repellent clothing one of the requirements for those serving in adverse conditions because the technology exists.

The Permethrin saturated clothing that includes a DEET solution strong enough to do the job, but safe enough to wear, results in the combination of an ultrathon solution capable of withstanding the heat and sun that comes with many insect infested areas. There are many that consider working in safety netting the best option, and it is still an additional safety precaution that allows you to limit the amount of chemicals you need to use, but this type of clothing can protect those that work in adverse conditions where insect netting might not be a feasible option.

Even with repellent clothing, you will have other areas of skin that are exposed and you have to consider the sprays, wipes and other chemical possibilities to keep your skin protected from mosquitoes. While the insect repellent clothing that is treated with Permethrin will protect the majority of your body, you might need additional preventive measures. Presently there are personal repellent device options on the market which allow you to control the chemical exposure your comfortable with.

For those that are employed in outside jobs that require working in tropical areas, it is easy to understand the value of clothing and the other repellent options that are available. With the natural systems there are ones safer than using DEET which are quite effective. Citronella oil is a popular option, but there are other natural repellents that are quite effective and easily available.

The famous "bug zapper" is another form of insect eliminator that is chemical free. For additional combat devises there are the ones that are activated by motion, letting go a spray any time there is motion, those that release repellent every so many minutes and those you clip on your belt letting off an odor to repel the insects that are close enough to smell the odor.

No matter what your need may be there is a bug repellent devise that should satisfy your needs. While insect repellent clothing is one of the most popular methods that outdoor workers are considering, there are many other products available that employ a number of ideas for keeping pesky insects under control. Working outside in adverse conditions can leave you exposed to swarms of insect that are out of control where the presence of the West Nile virus could be present. For the best repellent options, you might want to consider insect repellent clothing or some other kind of personal repellent system to replace the chemical alternatives. There are organic insect repellents and natural ones to consider, as well.








If your about to venture into the wilderness this summer then head over to the authors website, where there are articles on the different types on insect repellent as well as the newest member of the repellent family, insect repellent clothing.


Saturday, February 12, 2011

Mosquitoes After the Floods


Over the past few months or so, the upper and mid-western states of the US have been hammered with record rain and floods right into the summer season. These massive amounts of water, combined with the dirt, debris, animal carcass', trash and other materials floating in the remains of homes, businesses, hotels and other affected premises, have given the survivors of these flood zones much to contend with as the water subsides.

One of the major problems currently being faced by rescue workers and locals alike is the inundation of very aggressive mosquitoes. Some reports estimate the mosquito population in these flood-torn areas as high as 20 times more than the same period last year. And although these particular mosquitoes currently do not carry any disease (such as West Nile Virus), it is predicted that, as per the timing of WNV each year, this could well turn into a catastrophe rivaling the floods themselves.

Traditionally, rescue workers in areas affected by mosquitoes would plaster themselves with a well known, but potentially dangerous chemical called DEET. Found in most popular insect repellents, DEET has been proven effective since World War II in keeping mosquitoes away and comes in either a spray, lotion or gel form. However, in situations such as this, where the very people who need protection are forced to work in and around water for days, weeks and months, DEET easily washes away from skin and clothing, leaving the wearer without any protection at all. In fact, any repellent in liquid form will do the same thing - no matter how well it works.

Solid, all natural repellents that are waterproof - such as Bug Bam - are key to the successful protection of rescue workers and residents from aggressive mosquitoes and, ultimately, the potential of contracting deadly disease from mosquito attacks. Not only does a product such as Bug Bam offer protection when wet or dry, but it removes the concerns of toxic chemicals (such as DEET) being added to the already dirtied landscape. In fact, when a Bug Bam wristband or grid has expired (after 100 hours), it can be easily recycled by sending it back to the manufacturer. Something no other repellent on the market can offer.

So if you're one of the many thousands affected by these floods, related to someone who is, or kindly helping those that are, remember that a liquid repellent not only needs re-application every 2 to 3 hours, but loses all effectiveness as soon as you get it wet. Bug Bam keeps working for you whether it's wet or dry. Perfect for the post-flood cleanup.








Joseph M. Symond is an Australian humanitarian, explorer and inventor of Bug Bam Products LLC. He is often called upon by the media for input and advice on personal vector control. Bug Bam offers a range of all-natural repelling products that have been scientifically tested and proven effective in repelling disease carrying mosquitoes from humans and pets.


Thursday, February 10, 2011

Mosquitoes - Controlling These Unwelcome Summer Pests


Ah, the pleasures of summer time! The sun setting over a beautiful lake, graduation parties, outdoor weddings, picnics with out-of-town family and friends, a ball game complete with peanuts and cracker jacks...does life get any better? Perhaps we are all forgetting one thing: the joys of summer also bear the baggage of unwelcome visitors: mosquitoes! Mosquitoes can potentially drive any of these fun activities indoors.

Mosquitoes Carry Disease

Several problems arrive along with the invasion of mosquitoes. These bloodthirsty nuisances are not only annoying and disruptive but also potentially very dangerous. According to North Carolina State's Department of Entomology, "Mosquitoes are important pests because their biting activity often interferes with outdoor activities and can transmit disease organisms to people and domestic animals."1

According to the American Mosquito Control Association, "Mosquitoes cause more human suffering than any other organism -- over one million people die from mosquito-borne diseases every year."3 Mosquitoes spread diseases to humans and animals alike. The AMCA continues to explain that the diseases that afflict particularly dogs "include dog heartworm, West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE)."3 Diseases more commonly affecting humans include malaria, West Nile Virus, dengue, encephalitis, and yellow fever. Additionally, the mosquitoes' saliva causes skin irritation resulting in those uncomfortable red bumps that form after a bite.

Tips for Treating Mosquito Bites

The first thing that should be done upon receipt of a mosquito bite is to wash the affected area with warm water and soap to rid the area of any bacteria and provide temporary itching relief. The application of Calamine lotion is helpful in relieving the itching or burning sensation resulting from mosquito bites. Cool compresses, antihistamines, and other anti-inflammatory medications are often successful in alleviating symptoms of mosquito bites as well. The temptation to scratch the affected area should be resisted, and if the bite victim feels dizzy or nauseated, they should seek medical attention immediately as these could be signs of an allergic reaction.5

How Mosquitoes Multiply

Water is necessary to the lifecycle of a mosquito. Therefore, habitats that are prone to hurricanes or heavy rainfall are often invaded largely by these pests. Mosquitoes are less likely to abide in areas with ponds or creeks if they contain fish and are free of weeds or other traps where they can hide. Generally mosquitoes remain within a mile of their birthplace, but mosquitoes also can travel far from breeding sites, abounding even in much drier surroundings. Though mosquitoes generally only live 2-3 weeks, they multiply rapidly because less than a half-cup of water is sufficient for their reproduction. Females produce 100 to 300 eggs with each pregnancy, often laying several thousand eggs in a single short lifetime.

Mosquito Prevention Measures

You may ask: why are mosquitoes drawn to humans? Mosquitoes are enticed to humans first by the carbon dioxide that is exhaled. Once the mosquitoes sense this, they are further drawn to their victim by other factors such as sweat and body odor. Wearing perfume, drinking beer, and certain foods add extra advertisements for a mosquito to use your body as a feeding spot.

Certain areas of property attract mosquitoes more strongly because of their ability to retain water. Common objects to monitor include drainage ditches, trash, old tires, rain barrels, unused or poorly maintained pools, birdbaths, barbecue grills, and other items that provide easy access to water. To prevent unnecessary excess swarms of mosquitoes, be sure to clean and maintain your property well. Remove obstructions in drainage ditches, clear gutters, and remove any unnecessary water gatherings.

Repellents are useful for keeping mosquitoes from directly contacting your skin. However, they are less effective at keeping them from swarming in the air near the body, and these repellents can be harmful if used too often.

Citronella candles are often used as another effort to keep mosquitoes away. They benefit the most during times of little wind so the chemical does not spread too quickly or the flame does not blow out.

Such measures as ensuring that your home is properly sealed with tight screens and properly fitted windows and doors will help protect your home from uninvited company. Since bats and purple martins feed on mosquitoes, installing boxes near the house will also encourage their residence and help keep mosquitoes away.

For those who are reluctant to provide for such creatures as bats, the use of a mosquito net may be just what the doctor ordered. Mosquito nets can provide protection for outdoor picnic areas, gazebos, patios, dog pens, or stables. Additionally, mosquito netting can be fortified with chemicals that kill mosquitoes once they land on them.

Since mosquitoes depend on flower nectar and fruit juices for energy, keeping flowers farther from picnic areas or other popular outdoor gathering spots may help ward off their presence. Additionally, being mindful of keeping lids on fruit salads or consuming such foods first may prevent further problems.

Finally, to experience maximum pleasure from outdoor activities, select clothing should be worn. Light-colored, loosely fitting clothing is the least attractive to mosquitoes since they are drawn to dark colors that form tightly to the body allowing easy access to the skin.

To summarize the options for preventing and getting rid of mosquitoes:

- Use mosquito repellents

- Use citronella candles

- Seal your home with tight screens, windows, and doors

- Surround your activity with mosquito netting

- Wear light colors

- Eliminate standing water

- Attract bats and purple martins

Paul Galla


http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/ent/notes/Urban/mosquito.htm


http://www.co.jackson.ms.us/DS/MosquitoControl.html


http://www.mosquito.org/mosquito-information/mosquito-borne.aspx


[http://www.ivyhall.district96.k12.il.us/4TH/KKHP/1INSECTS/mosquito.html]

http://www.tinymosquito.com/bitetreatment.html








Paul Galla, President

Bird Guard Bird Control Products

http://www.birdguard.com


Tuesday, February 8, 2011

Secret Insect Repellent - Mosquitoes Don't Like Listerine


It's that time of year again for summer barbecues and picnics with your family and friends. Then there are those who are not invited! I think you know what pests I'm talking about. Your very friendly mosquitoes who love barbecues as much if not more than we do! Now you can kill both germs and mosquitoes with Listerine and keep your summer free of the little pests !!!

Mosquito Spray....Worth a try

I was at a deck party awhile back, and the bugs were having a ball biting everyone. A man at the party sprayed the lawn and deck floor with Listerine, and the little demons disappeared. The next year I filled a 4-ounce spray bottle and used it around my seat whenever I saw mosquitoes. And voila! That worked as well. It worked at a picnic where we sprayed the area around the food table, the children's swing area, and the standing water nearby. During the summer, I don't leave home without it.......Pass it on.

OUR FRIEND'S COMMENTS: I tried this on my deck and around all of my doors. It works - in fact, it killed them instantly. I bought my bottle from Target and it cost me $1.89. It really doesn't take much, and it is a big bottle, too; so it is not as expensive to use as the can of Bug-spray you buy that doesn't last 30 minutes. So, try this, please. It will last a couple of days. Don't spray directly on a wood door (like your front door), but spray around the frame. Spray around the window frames, and even inside the dog house.








For more great tips and ideas visit our blog at: http://planetgreenenergy.blogspot.com/.


Thursday, February 3, 2011

Our Concerns On Mosquitoes West Nile Virus


Coming from a pretty cold and bleak corner of the globe, I didn't really know what a mosquito looked like until I went on my backpacking tour of North America back in the early 2000's. Up until then, I had no experience with the little blighters, let alone know what harms they could cause. Well, the mosquitoes West Nile Virus (WNV), soon woke me up to the dangers of these tiny menaces.

The mosquitoes West Nile Virus was the talk of the back packing circuit and although I found it exciting to begin with, the novelty soon wore off when I realized that mosquitoes were as attracted to me as kids are to candy.

As one of my friendly traveling companions pointed out it's a numbers game. "The more times you get bitten, the greater the chances are of contracting the deadly mosquitoes West Nile Virus" he said. He also went on to say that thousands of Americans have already contracted the virus, thousands more have it but as yet are undetected, and more than 500 have died because of it at the time of our conversation. Yes, my backpacking buddy was certainly a cheerful chapie, but despite his gloomy outlook, I had to quickly become an expert at preventing and treating mosquito bites if nothing else.

There were a lot of seasoned travelers around and so tips on repelling insect bites were in abundance. Some carried remedies for soothing the irritation of bites which included the world famous calamine lotion. More savvy conscious travelers used baking sodas. One guy pointed out that if you don't relieve an irritating bite, you will find yourself scratching it and that could aggravate it more. He showed me where a tiny mozzie bite on his calf had turned into a tropical ulcer because of this. He told me it got so bad that he had to be hospitalized in order to treat if properly.

It was becoming apparent to me that the mosquitoes West Nile Virus was not the only concern I should have and so I listened intently to further tips from these 'non-medical professionals'. Another bizarre suggestion was to use the hot head of a mach stick to reduce the itch issue. I was informed that this method was also good at removing ticks from under the skin. Obviously one has to be careful not to get burnt using such methods! The trick here seems to be a quick tap with the hot match head directly on the bite.

A few other remedies were worth noting but not really useful to the travelers medical tool kit. One such treatment was an oatmeal bath mix and another was to rest an ice cube on the bite. A little more out of the ordinary was the application of clear nail polish which is supposed to really take the irritation out of the itch.

But knowing what I'd learnt about the mosquitoes West Nile Virus, I was all ears for preventative measures and so got educated pretty quickly on insect repellents. Now the trick with these is to purchase a small amount of repellant from your home country as a temporary solution, but as soon as you are able, you need to buy from the country you're traveling in. The reason is simple. Whether you're in North America, Africa, Asia, or wherever, they know what works best for the area and quite often their repellents are far more effective than what you would probably buy back home.

Citrus seems to play an important role in repellents and I found that Citronella Oil was absolutely fantastic at keeping the pests away. Many travelers also carry an ultra lightweight and compact mosquito net in their packs for when they're sleeping.

Whether it's the mosquitoes West Nile Virus, Malaria, Dengue Fever or just some irritating bite, it's important to know what preventative measures to take. These basically involve covering up, using repellents, and sleeping under a net. Remember, simple prevention techniques are much better than curing infections, so practice prevention over cure wherever possible.








Andy Maingam is an expert writer for BloodIssues.com where he writes on such issues as High Blood Pressure Causes and Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. He also has other blood related articles on the site.


Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Fight Off Mosquitoes Naturally and Easily With This Eco-Friendly Recipe


Summer is here and along with summer comes those pesky, irritating, mosquitoes. While there are many effective insect repellents on the market, there are also home remedies that are just as effective and eco-friendly. Furthermore, home remedies have by far a more pleasant scent than any store bought insect repellent. Rather than smelling like a chemical lab with store bought insect repellents consider pleasing fragrances such as lavender, lemongrass or eucalyptus to repel mosquitoes.

Common essential oils for mosquitoes are: Cinnamon, Lemon Eucalyptus or regular Eucalyptus, Citronella, and Lemongrass.

Recipe: In a spray bottle, mix 20 to 25 drops of of one of the following: cinnamon, eucalyptus, citronella, or lemongrass along with 2 tablespoons of carrier oil such as olive oil, and shake well. Apply directly onto your skin and clothing, avoiding the sensitive area around the eyes.

Another way to repel insects when you are out enjoying nature is to add a few drops of oil to your shampoo and liquid soap. The aroma of the oil will offset the added perfumes and fragrances that attract insects.

Essential oils are nature's gift to us. They provide an alternative to chemical laden products that harm our bodies and our environment. With Earth Day just around the corner, consider more eco-friendly products in your home and in your lifestyle. Why would you want to put chemical and synthetic products on your skin when essential oils and essential oil blends are available.

As with any new skin care product, a patch test is always recommended.








For wonderful homemade skin care recipes, including body scrubs, toners, facial peels, clay masks, etc., visit Complete Skin Care


Monday, January 31, 2011

Screened Porches - Enjoy the Great Outdoors, Save Money, & Forget About the Mosquitoes and Bugs


One of the most enjoyable aspects about living in southern U.S. climates, such as North Carolina, is that the weather is conducive for spending lots of time outdoors. Nothing is better than starting up a summer game night of poker, board game, or even having a few friends over for a cook out in the relaxing evening air. A big deterrent to most people though, can be the large insect population that the warmth also brings.

One solution which is quite common is to douse every house guest with insect repellent. Most people tend not to appreciate the odor and feeling that bug spray provides. Some individuals are even allergic to insect repellents which will provide other issues with which to contend.

Citronella candles are another popular choice for preventing pests. The only problem with this choice of pest prevention is that the homeowner will be assured that the candles won't be harassed while the house guests serve as tasty treats for the mosquitoes.

The best solution for any outdoor function is a screened in porch or patio. There are so many houses in the south with screened porches that they are synonymous with southern hospitality. The screen helps keep the mosquitoes and other vermin out and the fun in without sacrificing the benefits of fresh air and nature.

Bugs will no longer be issue at your picnic when you are protected by the safety of your screened porch. The cool air blowing through the screen and the sound of nature will invigorate anyone as the family enjoys a delicious meal.

Kids love the use of the porch too, especially when the kids are stir crazy on rainy days. Rather than being stuck inside, a porch can be a nice retreat to allow them to get some outdoor time. Younger children can be allowed to play safely inside an enclosure that will keep them protected from weather and creepy crawlies.

There will be nothing but good times to be enjoyed when using the porch as much as most southerners. Entire families can enjoy getting together and having parties or you can have a romantic evening in the summer breeze with your sweetheart.

To be sure that your screened porch is as relaxing as it can be, you should always hire a professional installer that has experience with many styles of screened porches. By taking advantage of the skill and creativity of a professional decking company, the homeowner can be assured that the porch being installed is the safest and most beneficial porch for your lifestyle.








For more information and guidance about quality decks, sunrooms, and screened porches, visit http://www.paradisedecking.com. Paradise Decking specializes in custom-designed room additions, decks and gazebos, etc. and has a great portfolio of pictures with compelling ideas for your outdoor home improvement projects.

Daniel Elliott is an independent contractor who authors articles and media on a variety of topics for diverse audiences. WebDrafter.com, Inc. (http://www.webdrafter.com) produces Website design, hosting, and search engine marketing services for many of the clients, industries and markets related to the articles and media authored by Dan Elliott. If you would like Dan Elliott to ghost write or pen an article for you or your company, please contact him with your specifications.


Wednesday, January 26, 2011

What Do You Know About Mosquitoes in General?


Mosquitoes are annoying, swarming, hitting pests, and some are carriers of malaria, yellow fever, dengue fever, filariasis, and encephalomyelitis. Mosquitoes can be distinguished from other Diptera by their fragile, small appearance. Females have elongated mouth parts and a distinct proboscis well suited for piercing and sucking blood. Scales are present along the wing veins and along the lower wing margins.

The sexes can be distinguished by the antennae: in females they are long and slender with a few short hairs; in the male they are feathery and plumose. Close examination shows the antennae to be composed of 14 to 15 segments. The venation of the wings is also characteristic for mosquitoes and is helpful in species identification. Mosquitoes are particularly attracted to man and animals, especially to bright light and dark-colored clothing. The females are the blood suckers and cannot produce fertile eggs without ingesting blood. It is postulated that the blood supplies the serotonin and epinephrine necessary for production of gonadotropic hormone by the mosquito, required for ovulation. The eggs are laid on the surface of water and hatch into aquatic "wiggletails". These subsequently metamorphose into adults. Three genera-Anopheles, Aedes, Culex-transmit disease to man.

Mosquito control
1. Mechanical methods
Wire screens for windows and doors. Mosquito nets. Repellants; certain lotions or creams applied to the skin repel mosquitoes from bitting eg, citrignella oil, Indalone. Animal barrier: Placing farm animals between the breeding places and human habitations would deviate mosquitoes (particularly zoophilic) from biting man.

2. Natural or physical methods (ecological interference)
Changing the environment so as to become unsuitable for the mosquitoe eg, filling or drainage of the breeding place. Developing of hade if larvae require sunshine and vice versa. Changing of water level, water current, PH.

3. Biological methods
Introduction of a natural enemy (predator): a fish (Gambusia affinis) feed on larvae and pupae; release of sterilized males (X-ray or chemical agents) which compete with males in nature, mating with females. and resulting in reduction of the forth coming generation.

4. Chemical methods (insecticides)
Used the ones against adults (adulticides). Insecticides act on contact being absorbed through the cuticle (contact poison). These are applied as space spray with an insecticide, which causes immediate knockdown of mosquitoes eg. pyrethrum (active ingredient in Flit), but it has no residual action. And also by residual spray of resting places of adults (walls0 using an insecticide of long action (residual insecticide) eg, hydrocarbons as DDT and Gammaxane, Organophosphorous compounds as Malathion and Diphterex, carbamates as sevin. The dvelopment of resistance is a drawback of insecticides

Specific agents can be applied against aquatic stages. These agents are applied to water surfaces. Anopheline larvae are affected more than culicines, being surface feeders. Pupae are not affected, as they do not feed. Respiratory poison: applying non-volatile oils suffocates larvae and pupae by blocking the respiratory spiracles. Residual insecticides are sprayed on water surface mixed with dust or oil. They exert their effect by contact and ingestion. Practically no single method alone is efficient in control. The combined use of two or more methods (integrated control) would provide a higher and more efficient level of abatement. Insects escaped on method, are killed by other.








Article directory networking is an excellent, but hidden strategy of making lots of money through the internet. It is not an easy-money making system and does not require your dollars for you to get any information from an e-book. It is a free strategy which is happily shared to as many individuals as possible. It is 100%, if and only if you follow the strategies required. Every website, technicalities and 'know-hows' are exposed and you need not worry, you will get all that you need to know. So What is article directory networking? Click on the link below to get adequate information on this awesome revelation

http://www.bukisa.com/articles/365901_earn-money-through-a-unique-system-of-networking-your-accounts-in-various-article-directories


Monday, January 24, 2011

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


Saturday, January 8, 2011

Lemon Tea Tree - Nature's Powerful Protection From Mosquitoes & Insects


Lemon Tea Tree ( Leptospermum petersonii ) has the bacteria fighting strength of the common Tea Tree plant along with a wonderfully clean, fresh lemon scent. Its aroma is similar to the fragrant Lemongrass, but lighter.

Lemon Tea Tree is reputed to have extraordinary power as a NATURAL insect and mosquito repellant and highly recommended for protection against mosquitoes and insects.

Be safe and healthy this summer with this NATURAL outdoor fragrance that does not contain any DEET (which is known to have toxic side effects).

Enjoy nature's powerful protection from mosquitoes and insects!

Lemon Tea Tree dispensed alone in a carrier oil of pure light coconut oil in a very small percentage, works to protect you naturally.

NATURAL MOSQUITO & INSECT PROTECTION: The pure light coconut oil makes this natural mosquito and insect protection light enough that it can easily be used in a pump spray bottle.

To a 4 ounce colored glass atomizer bottle filled with pure light coconut oil add 5-10 drops of Lemon Tea Tree. Shake bottle and llow the oils to synergize for 24 hours as time permits. Spray on lightly for lasting protection from mosquitos and insects!

SYNERGY BLEND: For an effective and wonderfully scented synergy blend Lemon Tea Tree with Atlas Cedarwood in a 1:1 ratio and add to your atomizer bottle filled with pure light coconut oil.

PLEASE NOTE: There are many cheap, synthetic copies of aromatic oils, but these are not recommended for therapeutic use. For best results purchase the highest quality oils you can possibly find. Use certified organic essential oils, or oils that have been tested and are pesticide free.

Aromatherapy is a gentle and noninvasive complementary health care system used for balancing and synchronizing your body, mind, spirit and emotions to enhance your health. Properly administered essential oils are a natural, safe and effective way to enhance your health and well-being and may produce satisfying results where other methods have failed. Please consult with your physician regarding serious health concerns and do not attempt to self diagnose.








KG has developed massage training and holistic health programs for the spa industry, health clubs and clinics, schools, resorts, as well as for individual clients. She is a MindBody Therapist and Health Educator with advanced certification and training in Bowen Therapy, BodyTalk and Aromatherapy. She is the owner of Springhill Wellness Center and the Founder & Director of PurePlant Essentials aromatherapy products.

Click to order: http://kgstiles.com/moreinfo/lemonteatree.htm LEMON TEA TREE PURE ESSENTIAL OIL

Click to learn about & order http://kgstiles.com/moreinfo/cedarwoodatlas.htm ATLAS CEDARWOOD PURE ESSENTIAL OIL

Click to learn about KG?s other fine aromatherapy products http://www.kgstiles.com/pureplantessentials.html PUREPLANT ESSENTIALS

More Info? Contact: KG Stiles at Springhill Wellness Center, 2520 Springhill Drive Ashland, OR USA (541) 941-7315 Mahalo!


Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Get Rid of Those Nasty Mosquitoes


As I write this article it is summertime and everyone is heading outdoors to enjoy the joys of summer. There are some things about summer that make this time of year uncomfortable--or downright dangerous. High on that list is mosquitoes. Mosquito bites can be annoying. Worse yet, mosquitoes can transmit diseases, which not only can ruin your day, they can ruin your life.

Controlling the access of mosquitoes to your flesh is easier than you thought. There actually are many scientists who study the issue of mosquito bite prevention, and their finding can be extremely helpful.

Many people believe citronella candles keep mosquitoes away. This belief doesn't hold up under close inspection.

Citronella candles are a common item in many homes in America and Europe. They are usually burned outdoors to repel mosquitoes and other flying critters. The smell of burning citronella candles is unmistakable. Think very heavy lemon flavor. The name citronella gives it away.

But careful research shows that the kinds of candles most people use do not work. They are too weak to do the job of keeping mosquitoes away.

Oil of citronella does repel mosquitoes. But doing a serious job of warding off mosquitoes takes a lot more oil than is found in almost all ordinary citronella candles. In fact, most citronella candles are no more effective than any other kind of average candle in keeping mosquitoes at bay.

An effective insect repellent is a the chemical DEET, which is found in most commercially available insect repellent products in the West. The chemical has been available for several decades and has not been found to be harmful to humans in most of its applications. Prices for products containing DEET vary from low to high. If you want to apply chemicals to your skin, a DEET product within your price range is available if you look for it.

On the other hand, there is a natural product which has been found by scientists to be more effective than DEET. That product is neem oil, which is made from neem (Azadirachta indica) seeds. Neem is native to India, so it is available in stores that carry Indian products.

Neem and neem oil have been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. Ayuveda is the ancient Indian medical system which is a little too complicated to be described here.

In India it is often mixed into cosmetics and other products used to treat ailments of the skin, including acne. It is often used in organic farming as an ingredient in plant fortifiers. There are some dangers in the use of neem seeds, especially to pregnant women. So please be careful before use; follow your medical practitioner's directions carefully.

There is also another simple solution to the problem of keeping mosquitoes away: fans. Mosquitoes are not very strong. They have trouble flying in heavy breezes. Fans usually create breezes too strong for mosquitoes to fly in.

An additional benefit of fans is that they push away the body odors and the carbon dioxide that usually attract mosquitoes. If the mosquitoes can't find you, you're much safer. And happier.








Noo Yawka has many blogs on many topics. This article fits the theme of his blog See you there

http://www.houseguru.in