Are mosquitos as bad where you live like they are on my Texas ranch? I’ll share some of the tips that I use to keep the mosquito masses at bay, but I’ll confess that sometimes I have to use commercial bug sprays.
Most commercial insect repellants contain the chemical known as DEET® but they should be used with caution if the mosquito madness gets so bad that you must reach for that can of bug spray.
Some DEET products have been banned in many states and countries around the world, but it’s hard to find negative information on DEET today. Actually, it’s hard to find published studies after the 1990s.
One study resulted in diffuse brain cell death and behavioral changes in rats. Researchers suggested decades ago that humans can experience memory loss, headache, weakness, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, tremors and shortness of breath after heavy exposure to DEET.
Safe Ways To Fight The Bugs
- Empty all standing water;
- Use mosquito dunks from the garden centers for fountains and bird baths (it’s safe);
- Keep your grass mowed (mosquitos love high grass and weeds);
- Plant mosquito repellant plants and herbs, especially around your house (lemon eucalyptus, mint, Lemongrass);
- Use a fan;
- Wear long sleeves and thicker cotton.
Keep Away From Children
If you have to use DEET products, do not use these bug sprays on infants, and avoid using them on children. If you can’t avoid the DEET, use products made for children that contain 5 percent or less DEET.
Children are at a higher risk reacting more readily to toxic chemicals because all chemicals easily absorb into their skin, and affect their developing nervous systems.
Here are some precautions issued by the Department of Health concerning repellents containing DEET:
— Store repellent bottles and cans out of the reach of children and read all instructions on the label before applying.
— Do not let children apply DEET themselves because they may put the product in their mouths or touch their eyes.
— Avoid prolonged and excessive use of DEET. Use sparingly to cover exposed skin only; do not treat unexposed skin.
— Do not apply repellents in enclosed areas. This is especially important when using sprays or aerosols.
— Do not apply directly on face.
— DEET can be applied to clothing, but may damage some synthetic fabrics and plastics.
— Wash treated skin and clothing after returning indoors.
— If you believe you are having an adverse reaction to a repellent containing DEET, wash the treated area immediately.
Everything In Moderation
There are safer and more natural products on the market that really do work, in most cases. I use Cactus Juice – both the real cactus juice and a product called “Cactus Juice.”
Sometimes you simply have to use products with DEET, so use it in moderation.
When the bugs are really bad, do your best to use only what is needed for the moment, and make sure to bathe after you have come back inside.
Anything you put on your skin will soak into your body, so if you are putting on bug repellent, this WILL be absorbed into your lymph system. Hence, USE WITH CAUTION.
Try natural bug repellents before you spray on DEET, especially if you live in an area that has an infestation of mosquitoes and chiggers.
Now go mow your lawn!
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