Tag: Insect

The sight of a roach in your kitchen sink, or moths hovering above the dining table isn’t really pleasant and commercially available sprays and...

Sugar is often used as a sweetening agent in various foods across the world. This is its more obvious claim to fame. Its taste...

Insect repellents prevent bites from disease-causing insects like mosquitoes and ticks. Commercial repellents contain chemicals that may cause health issues when used over a long period of time. Homemade repellents can do this without serious side effects. For instance, 1 tsp of castor oil, 8 drops of lemongrass and rosemary oil each, and 4 drops of geranium oil in a tablespoon of water can repel mosquitoes.

Citronella shows anti-fungal and antibacterial activity which makes it a great choice to use as a natural pesticide. Components in citronella seem to show antioxidant activity as well. Citronella may be effective as a form of aromatherapy to help one relax. It can also be a great insect repellent as it masks odors that insects are attracted to. Use the highest quality oil for all of these remedies.

If you're an avid gardener at heart, you are always in search of plants that would help you utilize them as well as lend...

Drying lemon peels requires you to heat them in the oven at 200 degrees Fahrenheit or leaving them for a few days at room temperature. Dry lemon peels can also be stored in the powdered form in an airtight container. They are effective in protecting your skin from sun-damage, reducing dark spots and wrinkles, and de-tanning. Dry lemon peel scrub removes strains and also kills bacteria. The strong smell of lemon peels helps you use it as an air freshener and keeps insects away. Lemon peel powder can be used for seasoning food or as a topping on cookies and pies. A few pieces of dry lemon peels in your tea can add a nice flavor to your tea.

Eucalyptus essential oil is a natural alternative to DEET. Most store-bought insect repellents contain this chemical, but it can cause allergic reactions. DEET even damages plastic! Why put it on your skin? When diluted with a carrier, eucalyptus essential oil can be used on the body. You can even make a spray with witch hazel or water. If you like aromatherapy, add eucalyptus oil to a diffuser or burner. The aroma will mask your odor and ward off mosquitoes.

Heartworm is a disease caused by a parasitic worm and it is transmitted through mosquito bites. The easiest way to prevent heartworm is to prevent mosquito bites. Install netting in your house to prevent them entering. Use natural insect repelling herbs and their oils. Keep your dog's immune system healthy with a balanced diet and avoid being around stagnant water.

Coconut oil has several benefits and uses in the everyday household. It can be used as a mouthwash, lip balm, hair oil, baby oil, moisturizer, wood polish, insect repellent, and even stain remover. It has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which may help wounds heal faster. It also has antioxidant properties which can keep the liver and kidney healthy.

Vertical gardening is a great way to save space and utilize the walls. You can choose from a variety of plants and build your own vertical garden, indoor or outdoor. Vertical garden can act as a pest repellent, vertical garden can also be a source of fresh and organic vegetables and herbs.

Sarpagandha, or snake root, is one of the most important herbs in Ayurveda. Traditionally, it’s been used to treat migraines, anxiety, and insomnia. This plant can also benefit high blood pressure, digestion, diarrhea, and constipation. If you can’t seem to stomach food, take sarpagandha to increase your appetite. On the skin, it’ll benefit irritation, infections, acne, and snake bites. You can use it bring on menstruation, but if you’re pregnant, avoid this herb.

Wheezing is whistling sound that’s produced when you breathe and usually indicates respiratory problems. Medical conditions like asthma, cardiac asthma, bronchiolitis, bronchiectasis, pneumonia, acute bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and gastroesophageal reflux disease can cause it. So can a foreign object stuck in your airways and reactions to medications or insect bites.

Summer is just around the corner, at least here in the northern hemisphere. It’s getting warmer outside as we make our way into the...

Aphids are small plant parasites that cause plants to wilt and die. To prevent aphids naturally, clean away the aphids. You could also use aphid wasps, syrphid flies, ants, and beetles to lure them away. Additionally, try natural insecticides such as garlic oil, neem oil, and essential oils like clove, peppermint, rosemary, and thyme.

If you went into a restaurant today and your meal arrived with a cricket in it, you’d send it back, demand your money back...