The return of spring awakens many living things. Some we look forward to — like crocuses, daffodils, and tulips, green tree frogs, and a variety of songbirds — and some that, let’s face it, we absolutely dread.
Many insect species, including ants, wasps, and bees, come out of their winter hiding places in the springtime. One of the most dreaded of all the season’s insects is known as one of the most ruthless biters: mosquitos!
To keep pesky biting insects at bay, people often turn to plants with natural repellent properties. The beauty of using these plants is that they offer natural pest control without the need for chemicals!
Which Plants Have Bug-Repelling Properties?
Several plants are known for their bug-repelling properties. People use them in gardens, patios, and other outdoor spaces during the summer months to keep bugs at bay naturally. The following five are among those used most often:
- Chamomile emits a sweet, fruity scent that is unpleasant to mosquitos and flies.
- Citronella grass has a strong, distinctive scent that masks human odors, making it hard for mosquitos to locate their targets.
- Lavender has a strong scent disliked by many insects, including mosquitos, moths, flies, and fleas.
- Lemongrass has a high citronella content, which is the reason why it has a natural insect-repelling ability.
- Rosemary has a strong, woody aroma that is a turn-off for mosquitos, moths, and other pests.
How Can You Use These Plants to Keep Bugs Away?
Plant them. Whether you have an expansive back yard or a small patio, incorporate bug-repelling plants into the area. Plant them in the landscaping or in flowerpots strategically located near sitting areas to help keep bugs at bay while you’re outside. Place your bug-repelling plants near high traffic areas so that you can run your hands over them when you pass by to help release their scent into the air and let insects know they’re not welcome.
Diffuse them. Another way to set out the un-welcome mat for insects is to diffuse pure essential oils from these plants. Add a few drops to water in a diffuser or simply add a few drops to a cotton ball and place in a small dish to release the power of essential oils into the air around you.
Use products containing them. Insect repellent sprays and candles containing pure essential oils will help keep those pesky biters away. However, it’s important to read product labels to ensure product manufacturers haven’t greenwashed their labels and slipped harmful chemicals into the product along with those essential oils. Steer clear of sprays that contain picaridin, which may cause skin irritation and/or affect kidneys in large doses, or DEET, a chemical that is highly toxic when inhaled, absorbed by the skin, or swallowed. DEET has been linked with health problems like seizures, rashes, joint and muscle pain, headaches, and even death.
How Pure Haven Uses the Power of Plants to Help You Repel Bugs.
At Pure Haven we strive to make safe products for you and your family in all categories, and our essential oils and outdoor collection are no exception. We use pure, unadulterated essential oils that contain no synthetics, fillers, pesticides, or solvents.
Our bug off spray and candle are each made with citronella, rosemary, and lemongrass for their bug-repelling powers. And while our neem-o ointment is formulated to soothe bug bites and other skin irritations, some neem-o ingredients, like lavender and chamomile, also have repellency properties. A selection of individual essential oils and blends are also available on a regular rotation throughout the year.
Bring the Power of Plants Home to You
Several beautiful plants not only offer bug-repelling benefits but can also add an enjoyable scent to your garden or home, whether by planting them strategically, diffusing their essential oils, or utilizing products made with their essential oils to create a natural and chemical-free barrier against unwanted pests.
When choosing essential oils or bug-repelling products, you can trust Pure Haven to provide you with the safest, most effective options.We set the standard at pure, formulating our product using sustainable and natural ingredients and utilize safe synthetics where necessary, blending safety and science to be the first and only company in the United States committed to providing a full line of personal care and household products that truly work better than their toxic counterparts.
Click here to learn more about Pure Haven or head right to our online store for the very best in non toxic products delivered directly to you!
Sources:
Gervais, J. A.; Wegner, P.; Luukinen, B.; Buhl, K.; Stone, D. 2009. Picaridin General Fact Sheet; National Pesticide Information Center, Oregon State University Extension Services. http://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/PicaridinGen.html.
Jackson, D.; Luukinen, B.; Buhl, K.; Stone, D. 2008. DEET General Fact Sheet; National Pesticide Information Center, Oregon State University Extension Services. http://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/DEETgen.html.