Factory-made chemical insect repellents are widely available in the market today, but they can potentially be harmful to the skin. Fortunately, a variety of Ayurvedic herbs and natural essential oils are also available, which can deter these troublesome monsoon visitors without posing a threat to the body. Herbal extracts, including neem and citronella, have been used for centuries in India as natural repellents.
When to use natural/herbal insect repellents
The perfect time to use natural and herbal insect repellents is as soon as the rainy season starts. Insects are most active during this time of year and can carry diseases that can be dangerous, even fatal, to humans.
Important tips:
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During outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, or even if just hanging out in the backyard, using natural insect repellents will be a better choice.
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While travelling to a place infested with mosquitoes, always carry a natural/herbal mosquito repellent. Doctors also highly recommend this practice.
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Always use natural/herbal insect repellents on infants and children.
Natural and herbal insect repellents are safe, and effectively repel insects from approaching the body. They are suitable for both adults and children, and are available in different forms, including, lotions, and oils.
How to use natural/herbal insect repellents
Rainfall is essential for subsistence, but not the pesky bugs and insects that accompany it. Therefore, the rainy season is the perfect time to stock up on natural and herbal insect repellents. Besides effectively keeping mosquitoes and other insects at bay, they are safe to use, even on pregnant women and young children. Here are some tips on how to use natural/herbal insect repellents:
- Apply the repellent evenly on all exposed areas of the skin, including the neck, wrists, and ankles.
- Reapply the repellent every few hours, or as needed.
- When using a spray repellent, make sure to apply it in a well-ventilated area.
- Avoid using products that contain DEET, as it can be detrimental to health.
Do keep these tips in mind and enjoy the monsoon season without getting bothered by all those pesky insects!
Advantages of natural/herbal insect repellents
- They are generally much safer than chemical repellents. This is especially important in the case of children and pets, as they are more likely to ingest a repellent when it is applied or sprayed.
- They are environment-friendly compared to their chemical counterparts.
- They contain essential oils, which have been proven to effectively repel insects.
- They emit a pleasant smell, unlike chemical repellents that can often be quite strong and unpleasant.
Points to note when applying insect repellents
Use a repellent only as directed on the label's instructions, and do note the following advice.
- Use repellent that is just adequate to cover exposed skin.
- Avoid using repellents excessively.
- Read the label directions for clarification on the time gap before reapplication.
- Do not use repellents on open wounds and irritated or sunburnt skin.
- Spray away from the face, ears, eyes, and mouth. To apply repellent on the face, rub it onto the hands first.
- Upon entering home, wash the face, hands, and feet and change clothing.
- Do not mix any repellent with sunscreen.
Conclusion
With the monsoon season in full swing, it is time to find effective ways to keep those pesky insects at bay. Luckily, there are a number of natural and herbal insect repellents that can do the job just as well (if not better) than chemical-based options.
Hence, the most eco-friendly and health-conscious way to keep the bugs away would be to give natural insect repellents on Amala Earth a try.
