Summer fun comes with refreshing moments in the pool, sunbathing safely in the sun and sitting by the embers of a campfire, roasting marshmallows while admiring the night stars.
Next come the buzzing, the acute complaint of the female mosquito.
She is there to pick you up and will take blood if you are not prepared.
Swatting is a useful strategy if you only have your hands to defend yourself. However, if you want to sit and relax outdoors, you will need to invest in natural mosquito repellants to do the job for you.
It will take some trial and error to determine what works best for you, as it turns out that these biting females are difficult when it comes to the people they like to bite.
Who do mosquitoes bite the most?
Even among the different species of mosquitoes, there is no absolute knowledge of what they are looking for. Some prefer a combination of bacteria and sweat, while others are more attracted to body odor and carbon dioxide.
Studies have shown that people with type O blood attract the most mosquitoes, up to twice as many as those with type A. But that goes much further than that: genetics also come into play.
Our metabolic rate, the amount of CO2 our body releases when it burns energy, is perhaps the single most important factor in becoming a mosquito magnet.
Exercising increases our body temperature, which makes us more desirable. Drinking beer is like calling mosquitoes to join us for a drink.
Pregnant women are also more likely to be bitten because they emit 21% more CO2 than non-pregnant women. All the more reason to opt for natural mosquito repellents!
While chemicals can keep annoying mosquitoes and other insects from biting, you could end up paying a higher price for your health.
If they are not safe for breastfeeding mothers or children, they are not safe enough for me.
In your quest for a simple, natural life, you will likely avoid chemicals at home, looking for natural alternatives at every possible step.
Here are some natural alternatives to repel mosquitoes:
1. Citronella candles
Lemongrass candles are known to repel mosquitoes, and while some unreservedly agree with their effectiveness, others are suspicious.
These candles are readily available, but we suggest you get quality, not quantity, and opt for a candle made from soy wax and reputable essential oils.
If you’re the crafty type, you can make your own lemongrass candles at home to make sure you’re using quality soy wax and 100% pure lemongrass essential oil.
2. Electric fan
Have you ever noticed that in windy weather, mosquitoes don’t bite?
There are two sensible reasons for this. First, the moving air dissipates the carbon dioxide and blows it further. Second, mosquitoes have a harder time flying in the breeze.
Inside the house or on the deck, a simple fan does wonders. It cools you and repels mosquitoes at the same time!
3. Essential oils repelling mosquitoes
Whether you add essential oils to your own natural mosquito repellant spray, light fixture or mosquito repellant, you need to choose the right ones for your job.
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