What Are Natural Insect Repellents, and Do They Really Work

In Australia, summertime brings a slew of insects, including mosquitoes, flies, and other pests. While bug sprays and repellents are often used to keep these pests at bay, many people are turning to natural insect repellents to avoid the potentially harmful chemicals found in traditional repellents. But do natural insect repellents really work?

What Are Natural Insect Repellants and How Do They Work

Natural insect repellents are products made from essential oils, plant extracts and other natural ingredients that can help repel bugs. These ingredients work by masking the scents of humans and animals that attract insects or by creating a scent that bugs don't like. Natural insect repellants are typically non-toxic and contain ingredients such as essential oils (e.g. citronella, lavender, lemon, eucalyptus, cedarwood and peppermint) and plant extracts, such as neem oil.

These natural ingredients have been used for centuries in traditional insect repellents. They are often used in lotions, sprays, candles, and incense. The products are applied directly to the skin or clothing, or the scent is released into the air.

How Many Kinds of Insect Repellants Are There

In Australia, there are several different kinds of insect repellents available, including natural, chemical, and electronic options.

Natural Insect Repellents

Natural insect repellents are made from plant-based oils and other natural ingredients. These repellents are often less irritating to the skin than chemical alternatives and work by masking the scent of the human body, making it less attractive to insects. Popular natural insect repellents in Australia include citronella, lavender oil, eucalyptus oil, and lemon eucalyptus oil.

Chemical Insect Repellents

Chemical insect repellents are designed to help repel insects by releasing a strong scent that masks the scent of the human body. These repellents usually contain DEET, picaridin, or IR3535. DEET is the most popular and effective chemical insect repellent and has been used for decades. It is a safe and effective way to repel mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects.

Electronic Insect Repellents

Electronic insect repellents are devices that emit an ultrasonic sound or vibration that is designed to repel insects. These devices are powered by batteries and can be used indoors or outdoors. They are generally considered to be safe and effective, but there is some debate over their effectiveness.

Do Natural Insect Repellants Really Work

The answer is yes – natural insect repellents can be just as effective as chemical-based repellents. In fact, some studies have found that certain natural ingredients, such as citronella and eucalyptus oil, are even more effective than DEET, a common ingredient in chemical-based repellents.

Some studies have suggested that they can be effective in repelling insects, but the results vary depending on the type of insect and the specific ingredient used.

For example, some research suggests that citronella oil can repel mosquitoes, while neem oil may be effective against certain types of ticks. However, not all natural insect repellents are equally effective, and the effectiveness of any particular product may depend on its ingredients and how it is formulated.

In addition to being effective, natural insect repellents are also generally safer for the environment and for human health. Unlike chemical-based repellents, natural repellents are not known to cause skin irritation, respiratory problems, or other health concerns.

It’s also important to remember that natural insect repellents may need to be applied more often than chemical-based repellents. Depending on the environment, natural insect repellents may need to be reapplied every few hours or more frequently. Also, it's essential to use them in combination with other preventative measures, like using screens on windows and doors and wearing long-sleeved clothing.

Conclusion

Natural insect repellents are a safe and effective option for keeping pesky insects away. These repellents are made from natural ingredients like essential oils and herbs and have been used for centuries as a safe, natural alternative to chemical insect repellents. Although not all natural insect repellents work equally well, they are a safe and cost-effective alternative to chemical insect repellents. With a little research, you can find the right natural insect repellent to help keep you and your family safe from pesky bugs.

Are you looking for a natural way to repel insects? Essential oils are a great way to do just that! At The Living Co., we offer a wide range of essential oils and diffusers to help you keep those pesky bugs away. We believe in offering eco-friendly products that are safe and effective. Our essential oils are all-natural and free of harsh chemicals, making them a great choice for those looking to repel insects in a more natural way. Let us provide the perfect solution for those looking for a safe, natural, and effective way to repel insects. Browse through our products today!