Natural bug repellent?

Question

I have 4 small children (7,6,5 & 10 months). I really hate using bug spray on them. The chemicals freak me out. But I dont want them getting bit by mosquitoes all summer long. Is there any natural repellents out there that would work really well? I am also open to any plants I could plant in my yard to keep them at bay. Thanks!!!

Answer 1

CATNIP One of the most powerful mosquito repellant plants is ordinary catnip. Recent studies have shown that it is ten times more effective than DEET at repelling mosquitoes.

Other plants:  HORSEMINT, ROSEMARY, MARIGOLDS, AGERATUM.

An effective natural bug repellent, mix one part garlic juice with 5 parts water in a small spray bottle. Shake well before using. Spray lightly on exposed body parts for an effective repellent lasting up to 5 - 6 hours. Strips of cotton cloth can also be dipped in this mixture and hung in areas, such as patios, as a localized deterrent.

Answer 2

Bug balm is supposed to be pretty good too:

http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Prod...

Answer 3

Some say including garlic in the diet helps alot.  I actually take the pills, and when I do, everyone else gets bitten but not ME!!! :-)  I wouldn't suggest giving ANYTHING to a child without Doctor APPROVAL 1st (obviously) but... that may help you.

EXTERNALLY-SPEAKING, I heard that lemon grass and skin so soft work wonders.

Answer 4

Well, if you can get them to swallow vitamins (or crush them up in yogurt or something) taking odorless garlic every day works great.  I hate bug spray, too, but not because of chemicals, but because half the time, I get bug bit anyway!  Odorless Garlic works great!!!!

However, if you have a hard time getting your kids to swallow pills, then Burts Bee's makes a good all-natural bug repellent that is even safe for infants.

http://www.drugstore.com/qxp45539_334918...

Answer 5

Deborah Taylor-Hough at the following link

http://www.betterbudgeting.com/articles/...

states that essential oils are most effective natural insect repellents. Clove oil and citronella (rose geranium) are the most effective against mosquitoes. Clove oil can be an irritant so us it carefully.  Lemon grass, eucalyptus, castor oil, peppermint, tea tree oil, lavender, and cedar are also effective

"You can buy cedar oil in spray-on bottles at your local pet store."



The following is quoted from the link provided:

"Essential oils need to be used externally on your skin and garments. Be sure to test any oils on a small patch of skin before applying widely to your body to avoid allergic reactions or skin irritations.

You can make your own insect repellent sprays by combining rubbing alcohol (or witch hazel, vodka, or olive oil) with one of the listed essential oils (about 10-to-1, alcohol-to-oil ratio). Shake well before each use.

To make a lotion, use: 2 ounces distilled water, 2 ounces olive oil, and about 120 drops essential oil. Put the water into a deep mixing bowl, and using a wire whip, begin beating quickly while slowly drizzling in the olive oil. After oil is mixed into the distilled water, stir in the essential oil of your choice (citronella is probably the most effective for insect repellent use).

You can also add a few drops of your choice of insect-repelling essential oils to your shampoo or liquid soap to help counteract the perfumes in these products.

Keep in mind that the following criteria reduces the effectiveness of all insect repellents: Clothing rubbing on your skin, natural evaporation, your skin's natural ability to absorb anything applied to it, sweat or rain washing off the repellent, and a windy environment."

Answer 6

Lemongrass is a natural bug repellant