Dealing with pests in your household can be an extremely nerve-wracking activity, especially if one has to call pest control services. However, most of us are hesitant with using chemicals or synthetic substances around the house, especially if there are kids or pets around. Instead, you could consider going green and using these seven essential oils to keep pests away from your house.
Oregano oil: Moths are usually attracted to light and it is common to find them flying around various light sources at home, especially during monsoon. One easy way to get rid of all kinds of moths is to use oregano oil [1]. Dilute 8-10 drops of oregano oil with water in a spray bottle for best results.
Citronella oil: This oil is an effective and natural insect repellent that was first used by the Indian Army to repel mosquitoes at the beginning of the 20th century. Following that, it was then registered for commercial use in the USA in 1948. However, remember that it can act as a mosquito repellent for only around 130 minutes [2]. It is also effective in getting rid of ticks and dust mites.
Neem oil: It can act as a very effective mosquito repellent and can also provide longer protection from a few species of mosquitoes naturally [3]. However, remember to dilute a few drops of neem oil with coconut oil as a base. This is because it could cause skin irritations such as dermatitis if it is directly applied to your skin.
Peppermint oil: If you have ants infestation, just add around 10 drops of this essential oil to the main source from where the ants are coming from. It can also be used as a mosquito repellent [4]. However, it can provide protection against mosquitoes only for 60 to 180 minutes at a time. Remember to dilute it with coconut or olive oil before any application.
Tea tree oil: Researchers from the University of Sydney found that tea tree oil, if mixed with citronella oil is as effective as a synthetic substance known as benzyl benzoate to get rid of those troublesome ticks and dust mites in your house [5].
Thyme oil: Another essential oil to tackle mites and ticks around your house, especially if you have pets [6]. Researchers have found that a compound in thyme oil, known as thymol, is effective in fighting against these pests without the need of using chemical substances around your house. Other than this, it could also act as a mosquito repellent [7].
Lavender oil: This essential oil is popularly known for its relaxing effect on the mind and body, however, it is also effective in repelling houseflies if it is mixed with sunflower oil [8]. Other than this, you can also spray your house with 10 drops of lavender oil mixed in water to keep insects away whilst disinfecting the air.
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