Summary: Learn how to make a safe, natural mosquito and tick repellent that contains neem oil as a major active ingredient.
Mosquitoes are not only annoying pests, they can carry disease and, their bites can become infected. It is important to protect yourself and your entire family from mosquito bites. But, it is equally important to ensure that the mosquito repellents you use, especially on children and sensitive people, are free of potentially harmful artificial chemicals.
The most common active ingredient in commercial mosquito repellents is the insecticide, DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide). According to a study by Duke University Medical Center pharmacologist Mohamed Abou-Donia, ” prolonged exposure to DEET can impair functioning in parts of the brain.” Sensitive individuals may experience immediate reactions to DEET, upon exposure.
Fortunately, there is an effective, safe alternative to these commercial repellents that you can make at home. The following natural mosquito repellent formula contains, as a major ingredient, the ancient Ayurvedic medicinal oil of the neem tree. According to John Conrick in “Neem, The Ultimate Herb,” neem will repel “not only mosquitoes, but also… biting flies, sand fleas and ticks.” Neem oil is increasingly available at health food stores and is also available from a variety of online stores.
You will need a 12-ounce bottle with a spray top.
You can use different bases for this formula. Choose one of the following:
Base One: 2 ounces of Vodka and 9 ounces of distilled water.
Base Two: 11 ounces of mineral oil.
Add the following to the base:
1/2 ounce Neem oil
10 drops Lavender oil
10 drops Rosemary oil
15 drops Lemongrass oil
15 drops Citronella oil
Shake this formula well and use it liberally, especially during the insect biting seasons. This mosquito-repelling formula is perfectly safe, except in the rare cases of individuals who experience allergies to any of the above ingredients.
References:
Duke University Office of News and Communication. http://www.dukenews.duke.edu/2002/06/mm_deetmm0602.html
Conrick, John, “Neem, The Ultimate Herb.” Lotus Press, WI. 2001. P. 98.
Additional Resource:
http://www.quantumhealth.com/news/dangers_of_DEET.html
Disclaimer: The information in this article is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The author is not a doctor and makes no representation and assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of this information. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read on the internet. The author does not recommend, endorse or make any representation about the efficacy, appropriateness or suitability of any specific remedies or procedures.
This article is a reprint by this author, first published on a defunct content site on June 13, 2009.
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In my reality all the mosquitoes are vampires and all fireflies are dragons.