Most conventional, store bought insect repellents use a chemical called DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide). A Duke University Pharmacologist, Mohammad Abou-Donia stated that research tests on rats show memory loss and other behavioral changes after prolonged exposure to DEET. In fact, the Toxic Substances and Disease registry lists 8 deaths directly associated with DEET ingestion or topical application.
Fortunately, there are effective natural solutions such as peppermint.
Bugs and spiders hate peppermint. In fact, peppermint keeps most pests away, including beetles, caterpillars, fleas, flies, lice, mice, moths and more.
USING PEPPERMINT AROUND THE HOME
One study published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine discovered that applying peppermint oil on just one arm of a participant, protected both of his or her arms from mosquito bites for up to 150 minutes.
Another study published in BioMed Research International found that peppermint essential oil is an effective repellent when applied to cotton.
If you have spiders, ants, mosquitoes and other bugs around your home, try using peppermint oil.
Add a few drops of peppermint oil to a cotton ball and place the ball in an area where you often see insects.
MAKE A SPRAY
To make a spray, mix 10 drops of peppermint essential oil and 16 oz. of water, then transfer to a spray bottle. Use the mixture to spray down countertops, furniture, blinds and other areas of concern.