What’s in Natural Mosquito Yard Sprays and Do They Really Work?
As more and more people look for natural alternatives to solve everyday problems, the question is, “are natural-based products as effective as the chemical base versions?” Today you can find soaps, detergents, cleaners, and even cosmetics that use all-natural ingredients. And although most of us would probably prefer to use a natural-based product over a chemical-based alternative, that question remains: are they as effective? With this in mind, we decided to take a closer look at one natural product that’s being used to help people enjoy more time outdoors.
If you have thought about using a natural barrier spray for mosquitoes but wondered, “do they really work”? Here’s the information you’ve been looking for.
Research shows mosquito sprays that contain natural essential oils, such as rosemary, lemongrass, peppermint, and garlic can be highly effective at repelling many bugs and insects. This is great news to those of you who want to enjoy your backyard without getting greased up with bug spray or burn so many candles it looks like you’re performing an ancient tribal ritual in your backyard. Let’s take a closer look at these natural ingredients and why they are effective at keeping bugs at bay.
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Essential Oils
You may already know about the medicinal powers associated with essential oils. They have been used for years to help relieve stress, spice up recipes, and sooth sore muscles. But they can also be used to help repel pesky insects. Many of the scents that we adore, mosquitos can’t stand. This is good news for us and kind of bad news for them. Essential oils are plant-based, considered safe for humans, and also very effective when used as a repellent spray. Listed below are some of the specific essential oils Mosquito Joe uses in their natural base mosquito repellant.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a very common kitchen ingredient and makes a great addition to your herb garden. Rosemary has been used for centuries to help flavor meals. Known for its distinct, pungent aroma, it also does a great job of repelling flies, mosquitos, and cabbage moths. So, if you’re looking to add a little extra repelling power to your backyard, consider adding rosemary to your garden.
Lemongrass
Most of you have probably heard of lemongrass soup, but did you also know this strong-smelling grass also contains citronella, a very common natural ingredient in many mosquito repellents and sprays? Many outdoor candles and torches contain citronella, which gives off a strong order that mosquitoes and other biting insects don’t like.
Peppermint
Peppermint, yes that pleasant-smelling essential oil used in things like gum and lotions, is also a great insect repellant. Although children and adults often both enjoy the refreshing fragrance of peppermint and the cooling sensation of peppermint oil, when diffused and used in a concentrated form, peppermint oil is very effective at keeping mosquitoes away. And when applied properly, it can also ease the itching of mosquito bites!
Garlic
Most of us are aware that garlic has the power to repel blood-sucking vampires. But did you know it works for mosquitoes, too? That’s right, this vegetable (yes, it’s a vegetable, not an herb) is a classic blood-sucker deterrent! Whether it’s vampires or mosquitos, garlic has long been hailed as a fantastic natural repellant. And since it’s harmless to plants and most animals, it can be applied with little worry…unless you’re a bug. They can’t stand the odor!
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Natural vs Chemical Application
Like chemical sprays, a natural-based mosquito spray can be applied using a sprayer that targets shrubs, plants, flowers, vegetable gardens, and around ponds where mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas like to feed. Prior to having your yard treated, it’s a good idea to inspect for any larvae or eggs that may be present. Also, check for and remove any standing water to eliminate potential insect breeding habitats. Even easier, you can call your local pest control pros at Mosquito Joe to help you identify potential mosquito breeding grounds and how to eliminate them.
Do Natural Sprays Work?
It’s well documented that natural soaps, detergents, and cleaners are as effective as their chemical-based alternatives. But can a natural mosquito spray really protect you and your family from those backyard biters? When applied correctly by a trained professional, natural mosquito sprays do work. They are as effective as chemically based treatments and come with all the benefits associated with using a natural product. So, the next time you get the itch to go natural, call Mosquito Joe. We offer a variety of natural-based repellant products, ranging from all-natural garlic-based sprays to botanically derived sprays, that utilize natural plant oils designed to last from 14 to 30 days. For more on how to treat your yard with a natural spray, contact the professionals at Mosquito Joes.
