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I used to work on this farm. There was a muddy, shallow pond nearby. Ponds like these are basically breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Whenever I'd be out cutting weeds, the mosquitoes would try and make a meal of me. The only way that I could prevent this was to slather myself in gross-smelling chemicals that I would sweat off in less than an hour. So after an hour of sweating, (and sweating attracts mosquitoes) in order to keep my sanity, I'd have to coat myself with the chemicals again.
The potent ingredient in mosquito repellent is DEET. The EPA says it is safe, not a carcinogen, but it can cause irritation in some people. Long-term exposure to DEET may cause moodiness, impaired cognitive function and insomnia. Environmentally, DEET cause slight damage to the water supply.
However, products containing DEET are the ones that ward off mosquitoes best. For those of us living in countries with low instances of Mmosquito-borne illnesses, we can get away with not using DEET-based repellents, but for people living in areas with high instances of malaria and other insect-carried illnesses, standard repellents are probably best for overall health.
Here are some eco-friendly mosquito-repelling tips:
- If you use a DEET-based repellent, do not use it in an aerosol can.
- A citronella candle works well to cover an area. Unfortunately, citronella doesn't remain potent for long on human skin.
- Wear light colors. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors. Changing your wardrobe can reduce your need for repellents.
- Remove or cover all standing water near your home. This will induce the varmints to breed elsewhere.
- Remain unscented. Mosquitoes are attracted to floral smells. Do not use scented soap if you wish to escape the wrath of the mosquitoes.
Read more about eco-friendly pest control:
Greensburg Glossary: Pesticides
Make an Organic Fly Trap
Catch Up on Your Garden Reading
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