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sallyomally
June 16th, 2009, 11:54 AM
One of our VBers brought up a topic which I think was discussed some time ago addressing the issue of killing bugs. I think most of us are not too keen on the idea, but there are times when the critters can get out of hand.
So tell me... what are some tried and true natural insect repellents that work without killing the bugs?
I do know that the number one repellent is a spotless kitchen with all food items placed in containers. I have read that catnip and bay leaf will repel roaches.
Any others?
Princess Peach
June 16th, 2009, 09:55 PM
I use citronella oil for mosquitos and other biting insects. Pennyroyal is also a good one if you are sprinkling it on cupboards, but keep it away from cats. Citronella is my pick, though.
sallyomally
June 17th, 2009, 12:28 AM
Thanks. I've heard of citronella, and I think pennyroyal is similar to mint?
rosiem
June 20th, 2009, 05:53 PM
[QUOTE=sallyomally;2348482} and I think pennyroyal is similar to mint?[/QUOTE]

Yeah, it's in the mint genus, but it's a bit dangerous. Be careful to keep it away from pets.

The essential oil, especially, is pretty toxic. Even a tiny amount is enough to kill you, so keep it away from kids, animals, and pregnant women, because it has been know to cause toxic liver damage and induce abortions... :spew:

Personally, I wouldn't use the stuff. Stick with something safer, like citronella.
sallyomally
June 20th, 2009, 10:34 PM
Yeah, I did some research. I think I'll stay away from pennyroyal. Thanks for the tip.
laurie15
June 20th, 2009, 11:51 PM
Rub an orange peel on your skin.
Tori~CL
June 21st, 2009, 04:22 AM
I remember always hearing that Avon, "skin so soft" lotion would keep mosquitos away, but I am not sure what is in it.

Also we burn citronella candles if outside for a long time.
PneumaticJawz78
June 25th, 2009, 03:30 AM
As sprays go, Buzz Away gets my vote, absolutely. The ingredients appear to be virtually all-natural.

No, I'm not 100% certain whether animal testing is involved in any way, although I know their Towelettes are "clean" (pun not intended). And no, their lines aren't organic. But dammit, it's free of DEET and, if applied rather liberally, it works really nicely. I mean, spray it on the mosquito directly and it just drops dead. It has a strong smell, but I don't find it intolerable.
jenni-anti-fur
June 30th, 2009, 09:52 PM
I remember always hearing that Avon, "skin so soft" lotion would keep mosquitos away, but I am not sure what is in it.

Also we burn citronella candles if outside for a long time.


Skin So Soft....works some but the smell is horrible....
Tori~CL
July 1st, 2009, 03:49 AM
Skin So Soft....works some but the smell is horrible....

Maybe that is why it works. :p