If you are familiar with mosquitos, then you probably know about citronella. The plant exhibits an aroma that mosquitos do not like, but the plant is so much more than a natural insect repellent. More importantly, the oil that is extracted from the plant has been used for centuries in China, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia. It was primarily used to help reduce the severity of rashes, inflammation, infections, general pain, and more. 

What Is Citronella Oil?

According to research studies, pure citronella essential oil exhibits amazing antibacterial and antifungal properties. The various compounds in this oil may also exhibit the following health benefits: 

• Fights bacteria and fungi
• Helps fight free radical damage
• Naturally repels insects
• Promotes relaxation
• Reduces inflammation

Currently, there are more than 30 species of citronella plants grown widely throughout certain parts of the world. Although there are that many varieties of the plant, there are only two types of citronella used to achieve pure citronella oil. There is the Java type and the Ceylon type, both of which come from parts of Asia, especially in Sri Lanka. Of the two plant types, Java seems to be more powerful, which is why it is usually more expensive. 

Citronella exhibits a similar scent to citrus fruits, wood, and cinnamon. Researchers believe that geraniol, a major constituent of citronella oil, is the active ingredient behind the oil’s health benefits. It may exhibit anthelmintic, antioxidant, anticonvulsant, and wound-healing effects. Continue reading to learn more about the health benefits of citronella oil. 

May Help Manage Inflammation And Pain

One review published in the year 2000 examined 34 different citrus essential oils and their compounds for free radical activity. The researchers noted many citrus volatile components, including the main type, geraniol, found in citronella oil. Geraniol exhibited high antioxidant capabilities, which work to fight free radicals that can cause cell damage. The antioxidant and natural pain-relieving properties may help manage inflammation or painful symptoms like achy joints. 

Acts As A Natural Perfume

The fresh, clean aroma of citronella oil is very similar to lemon or lemongrass, making citronella oil great for soaps, candles, perfumes, and more. A lot of people like to naturally deodorize the home with citronella oil for that reason. You can use a little bit in your dishwasher, refrigerator, laundry machine, and more, placing a few drops in each appliance when you run it. 

Exhibits Natural Antifungal And Antibacterial Properties

Citronella oil may be an effective skin care aid, due to the antifungal and antibacterial properties. Because it acts as both an antifungal and antibacterial agent, citronella oil may benefit common skin complaints, such as acne or athlete’s foot. Other studies found that citronella oil may help get rid of nail fungus and candida. To make a topical citronella spray, always dilute a one to one ratio with a carrier oil, such as olive oil or sweet almond oil. 

May Help Destroy Parasites

In vitro research found that geraniol exhibits strong anthelmintic activity, meaning it helps expel worms and parasites. It does this by either stunning or killing them without damaging the host. That is why citronella essential oil is common in parasite cleanses. It may even help prevent external and internal infections from these worms or parasites. 

An All-Natural Insect Repellent

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), citronella is a biopesticide. That means that it is a natural, non-toxic ingredient against potentially harmful insects, such as mosquitos. Since 1948, citronella has been registered as a gentle bug spray repellent in the U.S. Studies found that citronella could repel Aedes aegypti mosquitos, which are capable of spreading Zika and dengue fever. Additional research notes that citronella may be effective against head lice, flies, and ticks. Using citronella oil seems to be more effective at repelling insects than lighting citronella candles or incense sticks. 

May Help Control Pets

This seems like a strange ability, but research shows that citronella oil may get dogs to stop barking. Dog owners may know that certain anti-bark collars contain citronella for that reason. Collars that contain citronella seem to be as effective as electronic collars, and may be viewed in a more positive light. You can also add several drops of citronella oil to a spray bottle full of water and spray it throughout your home. This will deter dogs from climbing or peeing on furniture. It also helps to control pests, bacteria, and odors.

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The weather is warmer, which means it’s time to enjoy the great outdoors. Unfortunately, spending more time outside means exposing the body to pesky mosquitos. Some say that warm weather wouldn’t be what it is without a few mosquito bites! As true or false as that may be, it’s safe to say that mosquito bites are irritating, itchy, and can cause large swelling in certain people. Join us today as we cover some facts about mosquitos!

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When warmer weather arrives, so do the bugs. Insects like mosquitoes, flies, ticks, leafhoppers, hornworms, and more flock to your garden to infest your flowers and plants. If you’re sitting around the patio enjoying time with family, you don’t want to worry about bugs biting you every other second. The good news is that you can forget about trying to clap insects to their death mid-flight because there are plants that help repel bugs. 

If you don’t want to inhale the fumes of mosquito candles and torches all summer, you can plant a series of plants around your patio, pool, house, and fence to keep out unwanted pests. In addition to causing itchy bites, mosquitos and other pests can damage your gardens, crops and home. Using plants to repel insects is an eco-friendly solution to your problem. Plus, these plants add both beauty and fragrance to your home and garden. Here is a guide to many common plants that repel insects. 

Geraniums

Geraniums are quite common in patio planters, but you can also pot them or plant them in your garden to naturally repel mosquitos. These flowers not only beautify your garden, but they also release a strong fragrance that mosquitos, flies, and beetles despise. That helps you enjoy your patio or garden without worrying about bites or infestation of the fruits and vegetables in your garden. Plant some geraniums around your garden to keep those pests out. 

Mint

Fresh mint is a great plant to have in your garden because you can harvest some of it to use in culinary applications. It’s very easy to grow and has been proven to repel flies, ants, and mosquitos. It emits a wonderful fragrance and helps deter bugs from infesting other nearby plants. Planting mint near your windows or doorways can help keep irritating insects out of your house. 

Citronella

Don’t want to buy citronella candles or citronella-infused oil for tiki torches? Plant the real citronella plant in your garden or pots near your doors to keep the mosquitos out. The plant itself acts as a natural insecticide, repelling a variety of flying insects, including mosquitos. The plant can grow fairly large, so you may have to keep it under control with your garden scissors from time to time. 

Lemongrass

Similar to citronella, lemongrass gives off a powerful aroma that mosquitoes dislike. Lemongrass is tall, grassy, and ornamental, growing up to four feet tall and three feet wide in one season. Not only does the plant do a great job at repelling mosquitos, but it also adds beautiful greenery to your garden or patio. 

Lavender

Before we get into the insects that lavender repels, it is important to note that lavender blossoms can attract bees. If you are allergic to bees, planting lavender near your patio or doorways may not be the best idea. How does lavender repel bugs? It contains linalool, which is a compound that contributes to the plant’s natural aroma. Other plants also contain linalool, but lavender seems to have the highest content and is the most effective at repelling bugs. You can harvest your lavender and hang some bundles around your patio and indoors.

Marigolds

Marigolds add vibrant colors to your garden or patio planters. Ranging from red and orange to yellow, marigolds make the perfect additions to your vegetable garden bed. They help keep tomato hornworms away, so consider planting them next to your tomato plants. Marigolds are very popular summer plants that also deter plant lice, mosquitos, and even rabbits!

Chrysanthemums

The primary reason that insects avoid chrysanthemums is because the flower contains pyrethrin, a neurotoxin that kills insects. Don’t worry about your furry friends because it is safe for animals. According to research, the list of insects that these flowers repel is quite extensive, including  ants, roaches, silverfish, lice, fleas, spider mites, ticks, bedbugs, and harlequin bugs. Plus, the flowers are just stunning to look at!

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If you make it through summer without a single mosquito bite, consider yourself one of the luckiest people in the world. Mosquitos are a nuisance, even if they don’t all spread disease. They are attracted to human blood and they leave a bump, which may not appear until hours later. Most of the time, these bites are very itchy, especially if you are more sensitive to mosquitos. 

Mosquitos require protein and iron, which they get from human blood, in order to produce eggs. They lay eggs in stagnant water, where the eggs undergo various stages of development. They finally become adult mosquitos and begin to bite people to repeat the cycle. Mosquitos can carry harmful diseases, but the likelihood of contracting one will depend on where you reside. Some of the most common diseases that mosquitos spread include:

• Malaria
• Dengue fever
• Yellow fever
• West Nile virus
• Zika virus
• Encephalitis 

Chikungunya virus

The mosquito bite itself is often very annoying and itchy, so the natural instinct is to scratch it. By scratching the bite, you increase the risk of breaking skin, which makes the bite more susceptible to bacteria. When a mosquito bites you, use the following home remedies to provide relief. 

Aloe Vera

From sunburn relief to accelerated wound healing, it seems that aloe vera can do no wrong. It exhibits anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that work to calm redness and itchiness, especially from mosquito bites. If you have access to an aloe plant, the fresh gel from inside an aloe leaf will have the most benefits. Apply it to the mosquito bite and allow it to dry. Apply two to three times a day for best results. 

Baking Soda

Baking soda has myriad uses outside the kitchen. Not only can you bake with it, but you can also use it to clean drains. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), baking soda may be able to provide relief from mosquito bites. All you have to do is make a baking soda paste by mixing one tablespoon of baking soda with water. Ideally, you want a thicker paste so it doesn’t slide off your skin. Apply it to the mosquito bite and let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing. If this paste irritates your skin, stop this treatment. 

Apple Cider Vinegar

Applying a drop or two of apple cider vinegar on your mosquito bite may be very effective at relieving itchiness or burning. It helps to disinfect the bite, which is especially important if you’ve been scratching it nonstop. Should you require more relief, try to soak a washcloth in a solution of cold water and apple cider vinegar for a few minutes. Wring out the cloth and then apply it to the bite. If you have a lot of mosquito bites, dilute two cups of apple cider vinegar in a tepid bath and soak in it for 20 minutes. A hot bath can make itching worse, so don’t soak in hot water.

Thyme

When a mosquito bites you, it’s time for thyme! Fresh thyme leaves exhibit antibacterial properties, which may help reduce the risk of infection and itchiness around a mosquito bite. Pluck fresh thyme leaves and mince them, or smash them into a paste with a mortar and pestle. Apply the minced or crushed leaves to the bite and let sit for 10 minutes. Alternatively, boil a cup or two of water and pour it over a bundle of fresh thyme. Remove the thyme from the water once it cools. Dip a washcloth into the thyme-infused water and apply it to the bites for a couple minutes. 

Lemon Balm

Closely related to the mint plant, lemon balm is a centuries-old herb that you can use to remedy numerous symptoms. It works to soothe an upset stomach, but it may also relieve itching for people with mosquito bites or cold sores. Apply finely chopped lemon balm leaves directly to the mosquito bite, or you can purchase lemon balm cream and apply that to the bite. The tannins, in addition to it being a natural astringent, and polyphenols help to ease inflammation and accelerate the healing process. 

Peppermint Oil

A 2016 study found that peppermint oil may relieve itching from long-term causes, including liver conditions and diabetes. In theory, health experts believe that it may alleviate temporary itching, for example, from a mosquito bite. It should also be noted that peppermint oil is an age-old remedy that people used to relieve itching. Mix a few drops of peppermint oil in one ounce of carrier oil. Coconut oil, jojoba oil, almond oil, or olive oil are excellent carrier oils to use. Do not apply undiluted peppermint oil directly on the skin! Apply the oil solution to the bites and reapply as needed.

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People aren’t the only ones who love to spend time outdoors when the temperatures rise. Mosquitos, flies, and ticks buzz around and bite as many people as they can. Mosquito bites tend to be small, itchy, and annoying, while bites from ticks can be more serious and increase the risk of Lyme disease. There are some people who get bit by mosquitos and experience large, swollen bumps that take a couple days to disappear. 

The most common way to repel mosquitos is by spraying yourself with DEET, according to a 2018 survey. The reason for this is because DEET spray has the longest lasting effect against these buzzing pests. There are more concerns about the side effects of using DEET, including redness, swelling, skin irritation, and rash. DEET does pose several dangers to the body, even though the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says that you don’t need to worry. 

If you don’t want to coat yourself in harmful chemicals, there are several ways to thwart mosquitos during the summer. One survey found that 36% of people prefer to use natural repellents and tactics to prevent mosquito bites instead of using DEET spray. Learn about effective mosquito-repelling tips below. 

Catnip Oil

People know about catnip for the effect it has on cats, but they don’t know that it is a unique culinary herb and mosquito repellant. Catnip oil is acquired from catnip via steam distillation, but applying it on the skin will not attract cats to you. The process of extracting the oil gets rid of the effect it has on cats. According to the EPA, catnip oil may effectively repel mosquitos for up to seven hours. 

Change Your Light Bulbs

Mosquitos are attracted to light, but not all kinds of it. They tend to buzz towards standard light bulbs. To prevent mosquitos from swarming your house, install some LEDs, sodium lamps, or yellow bug lights. These lights may reduce the number of mosquitos that buzz near entrances to your home. 

Remove Standing Water

If you want to limit the amount of mosquitos in or around your home, make sure that you eliminate all standing water. Getting rid of standing water makes it so mosquitos and other insects cannot breed easily. Clear out gutters to avoid clogs, remove tarps or debris that collect water, and change the water in your birdbath frequently. Additionally, don’t let a kiddie pool sit out overnight without emptying the water the night before. 

Lemon Eucalyptus

A 2014 study found that lemon eucalyptus essential oil offered 100% protection against mosquitos for up to 12 hours. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) classified lemon eucalyptus essential oil as an EPA-registered repellent. Because of this, it is an active ingredient in many mosquito repellents. 

Buy Some Plants

There are several plants that deter insects like ticks, mosquitos, and flies. Citronella, for example, produces natural oils that help keep mosquitos at bay. Other flowers, including petunias, rosemary, geraniums, floss flowers, sage, marigolds, and chrysanthemums work to effectively repel mosquitos and other insects. You can learn more about that by clicking here. 

Peppermint Oil

Peppermint essential oil exhibits an array of health benefits. Some people use it to clear up congestion, while others use it to help promote wound healing. Several studies revealed that peppermint oil is a natural insecticide and mosquito repellent. You can mix this peppermint essential oil with other scents, including lemon essential oil, and a carrier oil. Apply the mixture to the skin before you go outside to repel mosquitos. A quick tip about essential oils is to do a small patch test on your arm to see whether you have a reaction to the oil or not.

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Everyone is familiar with the irritating, itchy sensation of a bug bite. The itchiness starts almost immediately after the insect bites. Slapping the bite, scratching around the bite, or applying cold compresses can only provide so much relief. Is there a natural relief ointment or cream that proves effective for relieving itchiness? The anti-itch bug bite sticks in this article may be exactly what you need. 

Even though summer is almost over, bug bite season is not. Insects tend to stick around until the beginning of fall, getting in every last bite possible. All of the fly strips, bug zappers, swatters, citronella sticks, and more cannot seem to win the war against insects. They always find a way past your defenses and get you when you least expect it.

Why You Shouldn’t Scratch A Bug Bite

The last thing you want to do is scratch the bite to the point of bleeding. Scratching a bug bite, especially a mosquito bite, makes the itching worse. Bug bites itch because of inflammation and scratching something that is already inflamed only increases the inflammation. That’s why bug bites itch more after you itch them. If you break the skin as a result of scratching, it can increase the risk of infection, itchiness, and it can make the healing process take longer.

Calendula Flower

Some people refer to calendula as the Swiss Army knife of the forest. It has many healing properties and can help relieve diaper rash, itchy eyes, wounds, dandruff, sunburn, and bug bites. It exhibits antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which accelerate the healing process while simultaneously reducing itchiness. 

Beeswax

Beeswax has powerful properties that help to heal and protect the skin. The anti-inflammatory properties help accelerate wound healing and create a protective barrier on the skin. This helps to protect the skin from the environment and can relieve itching in the process. Additionally, beeswax exhibits antibacterial properties, which help to keep the skin clean and reduce the risk of more inflammation or contamination. 

Lavender

If you’ve seen a lavender bush, you know that many bugs are attracted to it. More often than not, bees collect pollen from the flowers and bring it back to their hives. Well, as it turns out, lavender is a popular remedy for treating bug bites. The soothing properties are similar to that of chamomile and help to relieve pain or itchiness. Several studies found that it proves most effective for spider bites, fire ant bites, and bee stings. That being said, the notable anti-inflammatory properties work to relieve bug bites from all insects. 

DIY Anti-Itch Bug Bite Sticks

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup sunflower oil
• 1/8 cup calendula flowers
• 1/8 cup lavender flowers
• 1 tablespoon beeswax

Instructions:

• Pour the oil in a glass canning jar and add the calendula and lavender flowers. Stir a few times to ensure that there are no air bubbles. 
• Screw the top on the jar and place it in a windowsill for about three weeks for a slow infusion. 
• If you want a quicker infusion process, set a heat-safe glass jar with the oil and flowers in a saucepan containing a few inches of water over low heat. 
• Keep an eye on the oil for about two hours and then strain the oil, discarding the flowers. 
• Add the beeswax to a heat-safe glass jar along with 3 tablespoons of the infused oil that you reserved. Place it in a saucepan with a few inches of water in it over low heat. 
• Allow the beeswax to melt and stir well to combine. 
• Remove from the heat carefully and pour into lip balm tubes or tins. Allow the mixture to harden completely before putting on the tops. 
• To use the bug bite sticks, dab the bug bite with them as needed to relieve itchiness. 

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Back in the day of traditional farming, nobody ever thought to use pesticides on their crops. Although pests existed, farmers managed to grow what they needed, using natural solutions to stave off irritating pests. Nowadays, it’s perfectly normal to use chemical pesticides during agricultural practices. Just spray poison on the crops, which people inevitablly consume, and the pests go away. 

The Problem With Pesticides

Well, there isn’t just one single problem; rather, there are many. Pesticide sprays don’t single out the harmful insects from the beneficial ones. For example, they kill bees and butterflies and allow smaller predator populations to recover. They slowly develop a dependence on the chemical sprays, as opposed to the other natural systems. Additionally, plants may also become dependent on chemicals to grow properly. That is all to say that it’s time to get back to repelling insects the natural way, with companion plants. Repelling insects in this fashion actually increases biodiversity and enhances the ecosystems. The following plants may help to keep harmful pests away from what you are trying to grow. 

Alliums

This belongs to the onion family and the flowers are beautiful purple balls that bloom from tall green spikes, which are reminiscent of scallions. Alliums have been known to repel numerous pests, including slugs, carrot flies, cabbage worms, and aphids. These pests dislike the powerful aroma of alliums. 

Borage

Borage is an edible plant, with the flowers and leaves being safe for consumption. If you eat the leaves, make sure to choose the young varieties, otherwise they get fuzzy. The flavor is similar to that of a cucumber. They help attract bees and use deep taproots to pull up nutrients from deeper soil, depositing them on the surface. It also works to repel tomato hornworms and cabbage worms. 

Marigolds

Mosquitos, aphids, plant lice, and even rabbits avoid marigolds because they have a potent aroma. Fruit and vegetable farmers have used these little flowering plants to repel pests for many years. They are very easy to grow, especially in flower beds or planters. Make sure that they receive ample sunlight to thrive. 

Petunias

If you want to protect members of the brassica family (cruciferous vegetables), you’ll do well to plant petunias in the vicinity. The vibrant colors are signature to these wonderful flowers. Leafhoppers, tomato hornworms, aphids, and squash bugs do not like these flowers. 

Mosquito Plant

Yes, this is in fact a legitimate plant that offers a lacy green foliage and purple flowers. It’s also called citronella-scented geranium, and it is effective at repelling mosquitos. Mosquitos despise the citrusy aroma that comes from the plant’s natural oils. If you have lots of them flying around your yard, plant a couple to help repel mosquitos. 

Sunflowers

These are great garden companions because they help repel pests. Additionally, they are quite beautiful and distract aphids and white flies away from nearby plants. Those pests don’t actually have a negative effect on sunflowers, but they will harm other crops. Plant a few and see how the surrounding crops thrive. 

Chrysanthemums

Beetles, ticks, roaches, fleas, lice, mites, and ants will flee your garden when chrysanthemums are present. Several studies found that the extracts from the flowers can actually kill some of the aforementioned insects. In fact, chrysanthemum extract is a common ingredient in many residential insecticide products. This explains why pests steer clear of them.

Basil

There’s an enchanting quality to basil’s fresh aroma. Moths, mosquitos, and flies do not agree with this sentiment. In fact, they will steer clear of basil because of the potent scent. If you’re in a pinch and need to repel bugs away from your body, crush some basil leaves in your hand and rub them on your skin. You won’t have mosquito problems after that. 

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The weather is warmer, which means it’s time to enjoy the great outdoors. Unfortunately, spending more time outside means exposing the body to pesky mosquitos. Some say that warm weather wouldn’t be what it is without a few mosquito bites! As true or false as that may be, it’s safe to say that mosquito bites are irritating, itchy, and can cause large swelling in certain people.

Unlike bees or wasps that inject venom during a sting, mosquitos inject a proboscis. This looks like a straw that sucks up small amounts of blood. It also releases anti-clotting agents and the immune system releases histamine as a response. That’s why small, itchy bumps develop at the site of the bite. When you get a mosquito bite, the last thing you want to do is constantly itch it. That only worsens the bite and the itching sensation. Instead, use the following home remedies to stop bites from itching. 

Baking Soda

Baking soda is a great healing agent that may reduce the itchiness associated with mosquito bites. Because baking soda is a natural base, it helps to counteract the acidity of the reaction between the body and mosquito saliva. Neutralizing the reaction can reduce irritation and stop it from itching. Mix one teaspoon of baking soda in some water to create a paste and apply it on the bite. 

Raw Honey

Raw honey exhibits natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it a popular home remedy. It has been known to accelerate the recovery of small cuts, sore throats, and bruises. Drop a little honey on a mosquito bite to reduce the inflammation. Covering it with honey can also deter the desire to scratch.

Basil

Because of its strong smell, basil works to naturally repel mosquitos. It may not work as a repellent if you’re outside, but it can help ward off mosquitos when placed near windows and doors. The anti-inflammatory properties work to reduce the swelling around bites and stop the itching.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Similar to raw honey, apple cider vinegar is a favorite ingredient among home remedy enthusiasts. If you have an itchy mosquito bite, dab it with a drop of apple cider vinegar. Not only does it act as a natural disinfectant, but it also works to get rid of any itchy or burning sensations. If you need more relief, soak a washcloth in a solution of apple cider vinegar and cold water. Apply that to the bite for a few minutes. 

Cold Compress

Exposing your bite to cold temperature creates a numbing sensation around the area. This works to calm the itching and reduce inflammation from the bite. Try your best to apply an ice pack to the bite as soon as possible after the initial bite. This will combat inflammation as it happens. 

Oatmeal

Take this classic breakfast staple and use it to stop the itching from mosquito bites. Oatmeal works to relieve swelling because it contains anti-irritant compounds. You can make an oatmeal paste by mixing equal parts water and oatmeal in a bowl. Once it forms a paste, spoon some onto a washcloth and hold it on the bite for 10 minutes. Wipe the area clean and you should feel relief. You can also take an oatmeal bath for 20 minutes if you have many mosquito bites and need relief. 

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil exhibits powerful anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making it beneficial for wound healing. It has been known to fight bacteria, which reduces the risk of infection. In fact, tea tree oil is in several over-the-counter anti-itch treatments. Tea tree oil is a natural antihistamine that can help calm the swelling associated with mosquito bites. Additionally, it may also reduce the associated itching. Because it is quite strong, do not apply tea tree oil directly to the skin. Dilute it in a carrier oil like olive oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil, or sweet almond oil. 

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Summer is a beautiful time of year. The warm weather brings an array of refreshing stone fruits and many opportunities for outdoor activities. While you are enjoying the outdoor warmth, though, you have to worry about pesky bugs like mosquitos. Nothing dampens an outdoor gathering like a bunch of unwelcome mosquitos that bite everyone. The good news is that you don’t need chemical bug sprays to keep them away. 

One of the best ways to keep mosquitos away is by lighting several candles that contain ingredients that repel insects. Not only are these DIY candles a great arts and crafts activity for the entire family, but they come in handy and prove very effective against mosquitos. Many natural ingredients, which you may already have in your home, have bug repelling properties. 

Do Homemade Candles Really Work?

It seems suspicious that homemade candles with herbs and fruit can repel mosquitos, but they do work surprisingly well. Out of the recipes in this article, you’ll notice that basil is a common ingredient. According to several studies, several compounds in basil are highly toxic to various types of mosquito larvae. Additionally, basil alone has about a 79% efficacy rate of repelling mosquitos. It’s a very pungent herb and insects like mosquitos tend to steer clear of potent smells. That’s why some of the recipes also contain citrus fruits and essential oils. 

The following three recipes can help you keep mosquitos away this summer. Let us know if they work for you while you spend time outside. 

DIY Basil Lemon Candles

Ingredients:

• Candle wax
• Mason jars
• Wick stickers
• Citronella essential oil
• Lemon essential oils
• Basil leaves
• Wooden chopsticks
• Container with spout

Instructions:

• Place the wick stickers in the bottom of the Mason jars and attach the wicks securely. Make sure you center them in the jars. 
• Roughly chop your desired amount of wax (depends on how large the jars are) and melt the wax in the top of a double boiler over medium-low heat. 
• Make sure to stir the wax occasionally to ensure that it melts evenly. When it is almost complete melted, add a few basil leaves to the wax. 
• Use a fork to remove the basil leaves and then remove the wax from the heat. Stir in a few drops of lemon and citronella essential oil (about 3 drops each per one cup of wax).
• Once the wax is slightly cooled and still in liquid form, carefully pour it into the mason jars to fill them about halfway. Add three more drops of both lemon and citronella essential oil in each jar. You can drop some fresh basil leaves into the jars for aesthetic appeal. 
• Make sure to hold the wicks in the center while you fill up the jars. Once the wax hardens, trim the wicks so that they are a half-inch above the wax. Light candles and enjoy no bugs. 

DIY Basil Lemongrass Candles

Ingredients:

• 2 pint-size Mason jars
• 2 floating candles
• 1 lemon
• 1 lime
• Basil
• Lemongrass essential oil

Instructions:

• Slice the lemon and lime into thin rounds. Add a few lemon and lime slices to each of the jars. 
• Add a couple sprigs of basil to each jar. 
• Fill a jar with enough water so that there is about one half-inch of room at the top.
• Add 15 drops of lemongrass essential oil to each jar and stir to combine. 
• Top each jar with a floating candle, light, and enjoy a mosquito-free summer.

DIY Rosemary Citrus Candles

Ingredients:

• 2 lemons
• 2 limes
• Fresh rosemary sprigs
• 2 pint-size Mason jars
• 10-20 drops citronella essential oil
• 2 floating candles

Instructions:

• Slice the lemons and limes into wedges. Take your rosemary sprigs and cut them to the size of your jars. 
• Fill each jar 3/4 of the way full with tap water. Add 10 drops of citronella essential oil to each jar and stir. 
• First add the rosemary sprigs and then top off with the lemon and lime wedges. 
• Top each jar with a floating candle, light, and watch the bugs fly away. 

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Summer will be here before you know it. Some people despise the heat, but it’s the perfect time to savor longer days, outdoor activities, and beach days. Plus, you get to toss rules and routines out of the window. Wait…that can’t be the summer you’re about to have, right? As sad as it may seem, many people overindulge during the summer and gain weight as a result. It isn’t as dangerous as the holiday season, but barbecues and get togethers are where excess calories reside. 

Even though school is out, your health can remain in session. Sure, there will be inevitable slip-ups, but it’s all about how you handle them. When you don’t recover and get back on track, a snowball effect happens and weight gain occurs as a result. In regards to health, summertime isn’t just about the food you eat. It’s important to stay active, regulate mood, reduce inflammation, sleep well, and enjoy the weather to maintain overall health. Continue reading for great tips to help make your summer as fun and healthy as possible.

Dine Smart

Now that the COVID-19 pandemic is coming to an end and everything is reopening, people are eager to get out and eat out. Dining out is one of the quickest ways to rack up unnecessary calories. A single meal that involves appetizers, entrees, and drinks can exceed 1,500 calories with ease. Be mindful of where you go out to eat and what you eat when you’re out. Dining out doesn’t have to be unhealthy! There are many healthy restaurants and smart food options when you eat out.

Declutter Your Space

You aren’t a healthy person if your mental health suffers. Positivity and and optimal mental health makes you feel like a healthy person overall. One of the easiest ways to maintain your mental health is to declutter your space. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you have too much going on, or too much stuff in your house. Consider having a garage sale with all the belongings, clothing, or furniture that you no longer need. Make sure to take what you don’t sell to a donation center, so you don’t keep those things!

Workout With The Season

Going to the gym or Pilates studio is beneficial, but it’s important to workout with the season. Summer offers warmer temperatures, which means you have the opportunity to hike, swim in the lake, go to the beach, or go to more outdoor classes. Additionally, if you go for daily jogs, consider jogging in the mornings or evenings when the temperatures are lower. You don’t want to discourage yourself from working out by jogging in the hot sun! You can also encourage family fitness with bike rides and trail walks.

Eat Seasonal Produce

Summer offers an amazing selection of seasonal produce. From berries and melons to bell peppers and stone fruit varieties, these produce items taste the best in warmer months. Take advantage of what the season has to offer because seasonal produce tastes better and it is fresher than other produce. Head to your local farmer’s market for the freshest, flavorful produce.

Enjoy The Weather

There is a vitamin D problem in America. According to statistics, about 10% of the U.S. adult population experiences vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D is fat-soluble vitamin that is necessary for optimal bone development, immune function, weight loss, and skin health. There’s no shortage of natural vitamin D in the summertime, so head outside and soak up some sunshine. Just remember to apply sunscreen and wear sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes. 

Swim Safely

There’s nothing like soaking up the sun by the ocean or lake and then taking a dip in the refreshing water to cool off. If you venture to the pool, lake, local pond, or beach, swim safety is of the utmost importance. It’s very easy for a drowning to occur in an instant, so make sure to designate a safe swimming area for everyone, especially children. If you’re at the beach, pay attention to potential “strong current” signs to avoid being swept away. Consider investing in a simple life jacket for children as an additional safety measure.

Keep The Bugs Away

Mosquitos can easily ruin an evening kickback with friends or family. While summer is a beautiful season, it’s common for all sorts of stinging bugs to show up out of nowhere, especially if you are near a stagnant body of water. If you go on a hike or spend a day outside, check yourself and pets for ticks before entering the house. Click here to learn how to make two all natural bug sprays that are essential for summer. Additionally, learn how to keep bugs away by clicking here. 

Summer is a wonderful time of year. It can be blissful, relaxing, and healthy if you take the right steps. Make this summer memorable by staying healthy and safe with these summer health tips. 

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