During heat seasons, insect proliferation, especially annoying mosquitoes and ZancudosIt is a recurring problem. In some environments, it can also be a health risk, since they are vectors of diseases such as dengue, zika, chikungunya and yellow fever. This situation makes it essential to have an insect repellent.
There are several products in the market designed to repel them, but many contain chemicals that can be harmful to health or environment. Therefore, an alternative is to prepare a Insect repellent with natural ingredients that help away them without resorting to synthetic substances.
What is needed to make a natural insect repellent at home?
Some natural ingredients have properties that are effective to repel insects. Among them stand out:
- Cinnamon: It contains compounds with fungicidal effects, which prevents the development of microorganisms and is effective in keeping insects away.
- Vinegar: Its acidity alters the smell of mosquitoes, making it difficult for their orientation and avoiding their presence in the environment.
These elements can be used individually or combined to enhance their action.
How to prepare an insect repellent with cinnamon and vinegar
To prepare an insect repellent at home, it takes:
- 500 ml of vinegar (preferably apple or white).
- 1 tablespoon of cinnamon powder, two branches of cinnamon or 15 drops of cinnamon essential oil.
- A container with sprayer.
Procedure:
- Mix the vinegar with the cinnamon powder or incorporate the cinnamon branches.
- Let the mixture stand for 24 hours for the compounds to integrate.
- Pour the liquid into a sprayer and stir well before each use.
- Apply in areas where insects, such as windows, doors or humid corners.
Other natural options to repel insects
In addition to vinegar and cinnamon, there are other essential plants and oils with repellent properties:
- Citronela: It is one of the best known options to scare away mosquitoes. It can be used in essential oil or in aromatic candles.
- Lavender: Its fragrance is not only pleasant, but it is also effective to keep insects away.
- Rosemary and smell nail: These ingredients can be used in infusion or in essential oil to spray on different surfaces.
How to make an insect repellent with essential oils
To prepare a spray insect repellent, they are required:
- 100 ml of alcohol or distilled water.
- 20 drops of essential oil (citronela, lavender, smell nail, among others).
- A bottle with sprayer.
Step by step, this is your preparation:
- Mix alcohol or distilled water with the drops of the chosen essential oil.
- Shake well and pour into a bottle with sprayer.
- Apply to the skin or in the spaces where you need to repel to insects.
While these repellent can be applied to different surfaces, it is important to have caution when using them on the skin. Before applying any mixture, it is recommended to do a test in a small area of the body and, in case of doubt, consult a specialist.
Additional methods to reduce the presence of home insects
In addition to the use of natural repellent, other strategies can be implemented to minimize the presence of mosquitoes and other insects:
- Eliminate stagnant water sources: Mosquitoes deposit their eggs in stagnant water, so it is advisable to empty cubes, pots and containers where they can accumulate.
- Use mosquiteras in windows and doors: A physical barrier prevents insect entry without resorting to chemicals.
- Ventilate the spaces well: Keeping the air in motion with fans can hinder the flight of mosquitoes and move them away from the interior of the home.
- Light citronela candles: These candles emit an aroma that helps keep insects away.