Pine Tar Mosquito Repellent? Best 51 Answer

Product description

Pine tar is an effective hoof wrap for horses. Used for cuts on sheep when shearing, or for cuts of wire etc. on any animal.

Summer days are all about backyard cookouts, iced tea on the porch and watching your kids play in the sprinkler or chase fireflies. At least that’s the dream. The reality isn’t always so idyllic, especially here in Atlanta. Mosquitoes, gnats and other annoying insects have a habit of crashing the party, and their itchy bites can sure take the fun out of your summer!

Luckily, you and your family don’t have to put up with hiding in the air conditioner all season long while the bugs roam free in your outdoor living spaces. You can actually use plants outdoors to repel insects. Not only do these bug-repelling plants help keep pests away, but many of them are wonderful additions in their own right, adding beauty, fragrance, and even food to your garden.

Best outdoor plants to repel insects

Herbs: Rosemary, Mint, Thyme, Basil, Garlic, Catnip, Lemon Verbena

Mosquito repellent herbs are some of the best plants to add to your porch, patio, or garden this summer. They can be grown in beds, planters, and pots, making them convenient even for those with limited space. Rosemary, mint, thyme and garlic also deter ants, although we recommend our fire ant treatment service if ants are an ongoing problem in your garden. Stepping on a fire anthill is one of the most painful encounters with insects you can have in Georgia.

Grasses: citronella and lemongrass

When it comes to mosquito-repellent landscape plants, citronella and lemongrass are the heavyweights. Citronella grass (not to be confused with the citronella plant, which is often marketed as a mosquito repellent but doesn’t actually work) can grow up to 6 feet tall and the same spread, so plan accordingly when planting.

Citronella’s close cousin, lemongrass, also repels mosquitoes and can grow up to 5 feet tall. However, with a maximum width of just 2 feet, it has a much smaller footprint, making it a better choice for compact spaces.

Flowers: Marigolds, geraniums, chrysanthemums, wild bergamot, dental floss, lavender, feverfew, pitcher plant

If you’re hoping to add vibrant colors to your landscaping and keep bugs out, there are many lovely options to try. Fragrant marigolds are the superheroes of the garden, repelling mosquitoes and ants as well as parasitic nematodes. Geraniums (especially Pelargonium citrosum) are another popular choice for repelling mosquitoes, ants, and other insects. Lavender (which could also have been placed in the herbal category) not only produces beautiful purple flowers, smells amazing and keeps bugs away, but it’s also a wonderful addition to cooking or baking. Simply combine with rosemary, thyme, basil, tarragon, marjoram and oregano to create your own homemade herbs de Provence.

Trees: eucalyptus, tea tree

While people generally like the scent of eucalyptus and tea tree, their strong scents are a great deterrent to mosquitoes. The CDC has even approved eucalyptus oil as an ingredient in mosquito repellents.

Make the most of your summer landscape with these mosquito repellent plants and contact us if you are looking for residential or commercial lawn care services in the Atlanta area.

Chemical compound

Pine tar is a form of wood tar produced by the high temperature carbonization of pine wood under anoxic conditions (dry distillation or destructive distillation). The wood is rapidly decomposed by the application of heat and pressure in a closed container; The primary resulting products are charcoal and pine tar.

Pine tar consists mainly of aromatic hydrocarbons, tar acids and tar bases. The constituents of the tar vary depending on the pyrolysis process (e.g. method, duration, temperature) and the origin of the wood (e.g. age of pine trees, soil type and moisture levels during tree growth). The choice of wood, the design of the stove, the way it is burned and how the tar is collected can vary. Only pine stumps and roots are used in the traditional production of pine tar.

Pine tar has a long history as a wood preservative, as a wood sealant for marine use, in roof construction and maintenance, in soaps, and in the treatment of carbuncles and skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and rosacea. It is used in baseball to improve a bat’s grip. It is also sometimes used by pitchers to improve their grip on the ball, which is against the rules.

history [edit]

Pine tar has long been used in the Scandinavian countries as a preservative for wood that may be exposed to harsh conditions, including patio furniture and ship decks and rigging. The high quality pine tar used in this application is often referred to as Stockholm tar[2] because for many years a single company held a royal monopoly on its export from Stockholm, Sweden.[3] It is also known as “Archangel Tar”.[4] Tar and pitch for maritime use were in such demand that they became important exports for the American colonies, which had extensive pine forests. The North Carolinians became known as the “Tar Heels”.

Use [edit]

Pine tar was used as a preservative for the bottoms of traditional Nordic-style skis until modern synthetic materials replaced wood in their construction. It also helped stick waxes which aided the grip and glide of such skis.

Pine tar is widely used as a veterinary care product,[5] particularly as an antiseptic and hoof care treatment for horses and cattle.[5] It was also used when chickens start pecking the low hen.[6] Applying pine tar to the hens’ wound acts as a natural germicidal/antibacterial agent which, due to its foreign texture, prevents further attacks on the affected hen.[6]

Pine tar is used as a plasticizing solvent in the rubber industry, in the treatment and processing of building materials, and in specialty paints.

As a wood preservative[edit]

Pine tar is combined with gum turpentine and boiled linseed oil to create a wood preservative. First, a thin layer of a mixture with a higher percentage of turpentine is applied. This allows it to penetrate deeper into the oak and the grain of the wood, allowing the tar to seep into any pinholes and larger gaps that may be in the planks. The tar seeps outwards, indicating where the boat needs the most attention. [How?] This is followed by a thicker standard mixture. Such treatments, while effective, must be repeated continuously.

Weatherproof rope[ edit ]

Traditionally, hemp and other natural fibers were the norm for rope making. Such rope quickly rotted when exposed to rain and was usually tarred to preserve it. The tar would stain the hands of ships’ crews, and British Navy seamen became known as “tars”.

baseball [edit]

Pine tar is applied to the handles of baseball bats to improve a hitter’s grip.

Rule 1.10(c) of the 2002 Major League Baseball Official Rules limits application to the bottom 18 inches of a bat. The most famous example of the rule’s use is the Pine Tar incident, which occurred during the July 24, 1983 game between the Kansas City Royals and the New York Yankees and resulted in George Brett’s go-ahead home run was nullified in the ninth inning and the game is being protested.

Pine tar is also sometimes used illegally by pitchers to improve their grip on the ball in cold weather. This is prohibited by a rule that prohibits the application of any foreign substance to a ball (except for baseball grip enhancing mud, which is applied by umpires).

Medicine [ edit ]

Pine tar has historically been used to treat skin conditions, usually as an additive in cold bar soaps or lotions.[7] Due to the high presence of phenol in the early manufacture of pine tar, it has been classified as a carcinogen. However, much of the phenol has now been removed. Pine tar has been banned by the FDA along with many other ingredients classified as over-the-counter drugs due to a lack of evidence of safety and efficacy for the specific uses cited.[8] However, clinical testing in Australia in 2017 showed that the greatest risk of acute sensitivity is in individuals with severe dermatological conditions and exposure to the eyes.[7] It is important to note that the number of positive reactions to wood tar was not significantly higher than that to other common allergens. Additionally, the concentration of pine tar in topical products available in Australia is up to 2.3%, which is up to four times lower than those tested in these studies.

Pine tar has been used to cover peck wounds in flocks of captive birds such as chickens to prevent continued pecking at a wound and cannibalism. Pine tar is also used in veterinary medicine as an expectorant and antiseptic for chronic skin diseases.[10]

See also[edit]

08:30 • Natural Life & Health

Pine tar is a substance that has been used for centuries. It has a wide variety of uses but is primarily used as an ingredient in soap. You may have seen it and wondered what pine tar soap is and why it is used.

Pine soap is used for the soothing treatment of skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis; it is said to relieve itching caused by insect bites. This feature alone makes it a great addition to your medicine cabinet during the warm months when mosquitoes are everywhere.

History of Pine Tar and its Soap

Pine tar soap has a long history. Its main ingredient, pine tar, is used in a variety of applications.

Pine tar is a sticky substance produced when pine wood is burned.

The use of pine tar originated in Scandinavia. It is used as a preservative to protect wood from the harsh winter conditions and on the bottoms of cross-country skis.

Pine tar became a major export from the American colonies, as many areas were then covered with pine forests. Ropes and rigging on ships were sealed with pine tar to prevent rotting from the harsh conditions and exposure to seawater. British sailors were nicknamed “tar” for this reason. Pine tar is used for baseball bat handles because the stickiness of the substance gives the dough a tactile feel.

Pine tar is used in veterinary medicine to treat a variety of diseases in cattle and chickens. It is also used in medicinal applications to treat various skin conditions. Pine tar has a variety of uses — from marine uses, medicinal uses to making soap — and was quite a moneymaker in the post-Independence United States era.

Pine Tar Soap: The Benefits of Using it

Pine tar soap is a natural soap that has long been touted for its medicinal benefits in treating skin conditions as well as treating dandruff.

Pine tar and pine oil have a strong pine odor; It is combined with other fragrance oils and essential oils for use on the body. It is said to have antibacterial and antifungal properties and is useful for relieving and treating symptoms of poison ivy, oak and sumac. Pine soap is also used to treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis; it relieves the itching caused by insect bites.

Pine tar is a common additive in shampoos and is used to treat scalp inflammation and itching due to dandruff. Because of its pine scent, pine tar soap is known to offer a variety of deodorizing benefits. Men are known to enjoy its fresh pine scent. Pine tar has traditionally been associated with homemade, natural soap making.

Pine tar soap and shampoo has also been shown to be effective in relieving psoriasis and eczema, reducing inflammation in the body while providing a cure for itching associated with bug bites. It is also an excellent choice as a men’s soap.

Traditional use in soap

Pine tar has been a common ingredient in soaps for hundreds of years. It is still used today, especially in natural soaps.

Pine tar and pine oil have long been used in soaps. It can be irritating to some people: Mixing it with the fats and other oils found in soap dilutes the pine tar and pine oil so it doesn’t cause irritation.

Black soap is a completely different product. It is made from coal tar and used to treat dandruff, kill lice, and treat similar skin conditions as pine tar.

Coal tar black soap is said to have analgesic properties and relieve the itching and burning associated with common skin conditions. Pine tar soap and black soap are not the same product but offer similar uses. Coal tar is said to have an unpleasant and strong odor that can be masked with essential oils.

Other Uses of Pine Tar Soap

When combined with other ingredients, pine tar can be used for many skin and hair applications. No feminine scent here! Pine tar and pine oil can be used with ingredients like oatmeal, another natural substance that soothes the skin and adds mild exfoliating properties. It is effective in relieving inflammation, skin, scalp and itching due to dandruff.

You can find pine tar in natural soaps with other natural ingredients. Pine tar is a natural substance that does not harm the environment. So if you dr. Using Squatch’s Pine Tar will make you feel good all over.

Photo credit of the article:

Source: Personal Trainer Pioneer

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What really keeps mosquitoes away?

Today’s scientists generally agree that the best mosquito control involves a combination of repellents applied to skin or clothing and physical barriers that prevent mosquitoes from even reaching you. But not all products are the same. Here’s a look at the most effective controls backed by science.

repellent

Ever since the U.S. Department of Agriculture developed DEET in 1944, the synthetic chemical has been a mainstay of insect repellents. DEET, short for N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide, works by activating the olfactory receptors in mosquitoes, effectively repelling them because they don’t like its smell. Unfortunately, for some people, DEET can irritate mucous membranes and cause skin reactions, burning eyes, difficulty breathing, and headaches.

Both the EPA and CDC have classified DEET as safe, but recommend levels of 30% or less for children. (The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 10%). Never apply DEET to rubber, vinyl, plastic, and spandex as it can break down these fibers.

Although scientists and manufacturers have made many attempts to find a DEET equivalent, few plant-based sources have shown promise.

Lemon eucalyptus oil (OLE), which contains p-menthane-3,8-diol (PMD), performed equally well as DEET in the Journal of Insect Science study cited above. It also worked just as long as DEET products. The study authors concluded that “DEET and PMD are the most effective and long-lasting mosquito repellents currently available.” PMD is found in products containing C. citriodora (lemon eucalyptus oil) and the trade names Citrosynthol, Citrepel, and Citriodiol contain. It is also effective against ticks.

with p-menthane-3,8-diol ( ) performed as well as DEET in the Journal of Insect Science study cited above. It also worked just as long as DEET products. The study authors concluded that “DEET and PMD are the most effective and long-lasting mosquito repellents currently available.” PMD is found in products containing C. citriodora (lemon eucalyptus oil) and the trade names Citrosynthol, Citrepel, and Citriodiol contain. It is also effective against ticks. Neem oil has also been shown to be effective in a study conducted in the forested tribal villages of Mandla, India. Derived from the neem tree (Azadirachta indica), native to the Indian subcontinent, neem oil mixed with coconut oil and applied directly to the skin reduces mosquito bites by up to 91%. When added to kerosene and oil lamps along with other fuel, neem oil is also known to reduce the presence of mosquitoes.

has also been shown to be effective by a study conducted in the forested tribal villages of Mandla, India. Derived from the neem tree (Azadirachta indica), native to the Indian subcontinent, neem oil mixed with coconut oil and applied directly to the skin reduces mosquito bites by up to 91%. When added to kerosene and oil lamps along with other fuel, neem oil is also known to reduce the presence of mosquitoes. Picaridin is another synthetic ingredient that has been shown to be effective against mosquitoes. Developed in Europe in the late 1990s, Picaridin became available to American consumers in 2005. Studies show that it must make up at least 20% of the solution to be effective. While it’s generally considered a safe alternative to DEET (without the plastic-dissolving properties of this chemical), picaridin hasn’t been tested as extensively.

is another synthetic ingredient that has been shown to be effective against mosquitoes. Developed in Europe in the late 1990s, Picaridin became available to American consumers in 2005. Studies show that it must make up at least 20% of the solution to be effective. While it’s generally considered a safe alternative to DEET (without the plastic-dissolving properties of this chemical), picaridin hasn’t been tested as extensively. A children’s version of Herbal Armor also performed well in the Insect Science study. Containing a blend of essential oils including citronella, cedar, lemongrass and peppermint, it performed as well as a 40 percent DEET solution and better than a 10 percent picaridin solution.

barriers

As cases of dengue fever surfaced in Key West, Fla., local officials urged residents to protect themselves by dressing in long sleeves and long pants at dusk and dawn, when mosquitoes were more common and more likely prick Treating clothing with repellent can also help. Just note that permethrin, a common ingredient used to treat clothing against mosquitoes, is a known carcinogen when consumed and has been linked to Parkinson’s disease. Permethrin also acts as an insecticide rather than a deterrent, so mosquitoes can still bite you through a piece of clothing treated with permethrin and only die afterward. Clothing treated with permethrin is generally considered safe and is now available from major outdoor retailers.

When camping in areas with healthy mosquito populations, nothing beats a physical barrier like bug repellent jackets with hoods closed and mosquito shelters for sleeping or eating. We especially like Onsight’s insecticide-free mosquito repellents because they’re made from 60-100% recycled materials.

aerosols

Recently, products have emerged that effectively repel mosquitoes using scents or aerosols that are released into the air. A common ingredient in these products is the insecticide allethrin. The Thermacell uses butane gas to heat allethrin-soaked pads. These pads emit an aura that attacks the nervous system of mosquitoes. Allethrin specifically repels mosquitoes in outdoor areas. Scientists do not recommend using the product indoors. The product is also known to be toxic to bees, cats and fish, so care should be taken when choosing products containing this ingredient.

It’s summer and you’re enjoying the outdoor patio with your family and friends. The evening skylight looms in the distance and everything is beautiful. Suddenly your arm itches. You look down and what do you see? A mosquito bites you!

Mosquitoes have an incredibly strong sense of smell, which they use to find accessible food sources. You can repel mosquitoes by using scents they hate like lavender, peppermint oil, geranium oil, cinnamon bark oil, lemon eucalyptus oil, citronella oil, catnip, rosemary, and pine oil.

If you want to get rid of those pesky mosquitoes for good, then make yourself comfortable, grab a cup of tea and enjoy reading this post. We share exactly how to use each scent so you can stop mosquitoes from entering your yard, garden and home!

Just to add – if you shop through links from Pest Pointers, we may earn affiliate commissions if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

What are mosquitoes attracted to?

So how do mosquitoes get into our yard, garden or even into our homes? What draws you to these places?

First of all, mosquitoes are a problem at night, from dusk to dawn. This is most likely why you see them at night.

Mosquitoes are attracted to lights, which explains why you often see them buzzing around your porch or deck lights.

They also fly to standing water and breed in that area. This should get you into doing things like cleaning fountains or small bodies of water like a bird bath that you have in your yard.

Mosquitoes just love to bite people! They are attracted to certain things that are on people’s skin, including their sweat. That’s not a pleasant thought, is it? But hey, that’s exactly what they do!

What Scents Do Mosquitoes Hate and How Can You Use Them?

Let’s find out why you are here. Let’s learn all about the different scents that mosquitoes hate and how to use them effectively.

Get ready to take notes!

Lavender drives away mosquitoes

Ah, do you smell that wonderful fragrance? What could it be? Lavender you say? Wow, it smells amazing!

Guess what? Mosquitoes hate the smell of lavender! It’s true!

Let’s say you have a beautiful garden in your backyard. What you should do is buy some lavender plants and plant them somewhere outside. You will find that many of the mosquitoes that have visited your home stay away.

Now it’s important to note that you should plant as many lavender plants as possible, not just a few. The aroma of a plant alone is not enough to repel mosquitoes.

So to repel mosquitoes with lavender, plant or place 5-10 plants in areas where you want to repel them. The more plants the better. If you need to repel mosquitoes, crush some lavender to release the lavender oil it contains, which helps repel mosquitoes.

Well, what if you don’t have a garden at home or you can’t get plants? That’s totally fine, because you can use lavender for other things as well.

You can always check out some great products like Plant Therapy Essential Oils in Lavender. Make sure you have an essential oil diffuser, and as soon as lavender essential oil hits your doorstep, set it up and press start!

The scent of lavender will waft through the air and help repel mosquitoes.

Mosquitoes hate peppermint oil

Do you enjoy mint sticks or mints, especially at Christmas time when these products are plentiful everywhere?

Well, you may or may not like the taste or the fragrant smell of peppermint, but mosquitoes definitely hate the smell!

So what can you do if you want to use peppermint to repel mosquitoes?

Research published in the Journal of Medical Entomology showed that high concentrations of peppermint oil can repel mosquitoes. The researchers found that small concentrations of peppermint oil (5% and 10%) did not repel mosquitoes, but that only high concentrations of peppermint oil were effective.

I actually wanted to recommend a product here, but it is better for other insects and rodents than mosquitoes.

So, going by the research, placing peppermint essential oil in a diffuser near areas where you want to repel mosquitoes outdoors can be powerful enough to keep mosquitoes away from your immediate surroundings.

Peppermint plants most likely won’t work for this one, but if you want to go this route, make sure you mash the peppermint plants at peak times when you want to repel mosquitoes.

Geranium oil repels mosquitoes

One essential oil that you might not think of as a typical mosquito repellent is geranium oil.

While there is no significant scientific evidence to support geranium oil for repelling mosquitoes, geranium oil has been considered an age-old DEET alternative to repel mosquitoes.

While geranium oil alone is most likely not enough to repel mosquitoes, it can be beneficial when used with other mosquito repellent ingredients like lemongrass eucalyptus and rosemary. Check out SALLYEANDER No-Bite-Me Natural Insect Repellent, which contains a blend of 16 different mosquito repellent essential oils.

Cinnamon bark oil can help eliminate mosquito eggs

Cinnamon often makes people think of warm, cozy winter nights as they curl up in a blanket at home, holding a mug of hot chocolate drizzled with cinnamon.

However, cinnamon bark oil has an alternative use as an effective tool for eliminating mosquitoes.

Cinnamon bark oil has a warm and spicy scent. According to a study published by National Taiwan University, researchers found that cinnamaldehyde, the primary organic compound in cinnamon, was effective at inhibiting the growth of yellow fever mosquito larvae.

So if you find a group of mosquito eggs, spraying cinnamon bark oil on the larvae can be an effective solution to inhibit mosquito growth in your area.

Lemongrass eucalyptus oil deters mosquitoes

Lemongrass can be found in everything from ingredients to sprays to candles and lotions. Some people love its smell, others not so much. For mosquitoes? You hate the smell of citronella.

In fact, lemon eucalyptus oil is recommended by the CDC to prevent tick and mosquito bites in adults. It is one of the few plant-based repellents recommended for repelling mosquito bites. The main ingredient, lemon eucalyptus oil, is more concentrated than the base plant itself and can repel mosquitoes.

Searching the EPA database for registered mosquito repellents containing lemon eucalyptus oil found Coleman Botanicals Insect Repellent, which claims to repel mosquitoes for up to 6 hours as a DEET alternative. Although not an endorsement by the EPA, it is a registered product.

Try this essential oil and let us know if it works for you! Either way, you will be able to enjoy the wonderful aroma of lemongrass in and around your home.

Citronella repels mosquitoes

Citronella candles are wonderful for those warm summer evenings when all you want to do is relax outside. Why should you use them? Well, citronella affects the scent glands of mosquitoes.

In truth, citronella blocks the odor receptors of mosquitoes. When citronella is applied topically or released into the air, mosquitoes cannot find a suitable food source and stay away from the area. You can apply citronella-based mosquito repellent or use a citronella candle.

There is a great product called the Cutter Citronella Candle that comes in a copper cup and weighs about 20 ounces.

All you have to do is place this candle outside and light it!

Once you light the candle, it will form a perimeter around it that mosquitoes cannot penetrate.

So if you want to protect yourself and your family from a night of relentless bites from those pesky mosquitoes, take a look at Citronella!

Catnip repels mosquitoes in a similar way to DEET

do you use catnip Maybe you do, maybe you don’t, but let me spread some knowledge about you.

Catnip is one of the most powerful repellents against mosquitoes! Get some catnip leaves and crush them into small pieces. Once these release a natural oil, you can take that oil and rub it onto different rags or similar fabrics. Catnip has been shown to be almost as effective as DEET.

Spread those rags outside and let the catnip do its magic! If you weren’t sure what DEET is, it’s an EPA-approved chemical compound that hides your odor from mosquitoes. So, catnip works the same way and can be just as effective when used correctly.

The strong scent of rosemary drives away mosquitoes

Rosemary is the last scent we recommend to get rid of those damn mosquitoes!

Mosquitoes hate the strong scent of rosemary.

In truth, rosemary’s strong scent repels mosquitoes as its pungent aroma does not indicate a food source while masking potential food sources. To use rosemary as a mosquito repellent, you can crush leaves or keep small plants in areas where mosquitoes are common.

If you’re looking for a commercial solution, take a look at Wondercide’s Rosemary Mosquito, Tick and Insect Repellent Spray.

Pine oil repels mosquitoes

One of the most proven rural mosquito repellent methods actually has some scientific backing. That’s right, pine oil.

Pine oil repels mosquitoes. Research by the Malaria Research Center found that pine oil provided 100% protection against Anopheles culicifacies and 97% protection against southern house mosquitoes, which are most common in tropical climates.

While you may not be reading this from the tropics, it’s important to note that using pine oil as a mosquito repellent has been a tried and true practice for many years, and has some scientific validity to boot. While the study above looked at pine oil on the skin, there are other ways this may be effective.

For example a diffuser! Simply put, you can properly dilute pine oil and place it in a diffuser outside whenever you need to keep those pesky mosquitoes away.

Conclusion: Let’s do a quick summary!

Thank you for staying with us throughout this blog post!

We hope you learned a lot and know exactly what to do the next time mosquitoes bother you or invade your personal property.

To be on the safe side, we’ll quickly recap all the scents we’ve covered so you know exactly what to look for:

Lavender: This can be used as an essential oil or even as a plant. Many lavender-scented sprays target insects. Try these and we’re sure one of them will work for you!

Peppermint Oil: This scent is found in a product mentioned above that helps eradicate mosquitoes from the area.

Geranium Oil: When used with other mosquito repellent scents, geranium oil can be a powerful mosquito repellent.

Cinnamon Bark Oil: Candles are a great option in this situation.

Lemongrass Eucalyptus Oil: Try a lemongrass essential oil in your diffuser. It should definitely work!

Citronella Oil: Citronella candles are a classic solution to get rid of many insects, especially mosquitoes.

Catnip: Get some leaves, crush them, collect the oil, put the oil on rags and spread those rags outside.

Rosemary: Use lots of rosemary plants or rosemary oil for a powerful repellent.

Pine Oil: Dilute pine oil and put it in a diffuser where you need to repel mosquitoes.

Well that’s a wrap for us! woohoo!

If you’re looking for more mosquito tips, check out our article on how to keep mosquitoes out of your house forever.

Thanks for your visit. See you soon for your next pest problem!

references

Barnard, DR (1999). Repellent effect of essential oils on mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae). Journal of Medical Entomology, 36(5), 625-629.

Cheng, S.S., Liu, J.Y., Tsai, K.H., Chen, W.J., & Chang, S.T. (2004). Chemical composition and mosquito larvicidal effect of essential oils from leaves of different Cinnamomum osmophloeum provenances. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 52(14), 4395-4400.

Cilek, J.E., & Schreiber, E.T. (1994). Failure of the ‘mosquito plant’, Pelargonium x citrosum ‘van Leenii’, to repel adult Aedes albopictus and Culex quinquefasciatus in Florida. Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association, 10(4), 473-476.

Clemens, A.N. (2011). The biology of mosquitoes.

Tucker, A.O., & Maciarellg, N.M.J. (1996). Essential oil analysis and field evaluation of the citrus plant “Pelargonium Citrosum” as a repellent against Aedes mosquito populations. Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association 12(I):69-74

Piyaratne, M.K., Amerasinghe, F.P., Amerasinghe, P.H., & Konradsen, F. (2005). Physicochemical properties of Anopheles culicifacies and Anopheles varuna breeding waters in a dry zone current in Sri Lanka. Journal of Vector Borne Diseases, 42(2), 61.

A viral TikTok video shows people using Irish Spring soap to keep mosquitoes away while enjoying the great outdoors. Karina Nova confirmed by 10TV.

Sample video title is inserted here for this video

COLUMBUS, Ohio — A viral TikTok video shows people using Irish Spring soap to keep mosquitoes away while enjoying the great outdoors. 10TV viewer Connie asked can you please check if this works?

The viral video shows a woman rubbing the soap and sprinkling it onto her back patio. To find out if this method works, we went to Ohio Public Health Entomologist Dr. Richard Gary.

“The CDC and the U.S. EPAs recommend products that are registered because they are products that have been thoroughly researched for efficacy and safety,” said Gary.

These products are listed on both the CDC and EPA websites. They contain ingredients scientifically proven to repel mosquitoes.

As for the ingredients that work, Gary explained, “Deet is probably number one. There is an ingredient called picaridin and also lemon eucalyptus oil.”

Gary said that while there might be something in Irish Spring soap that mosquitoes don’t like, it really comes down to what ingredients are scientifically backed to protect you, as mosquitoes can transmit diseases.

“Mosquitoes in Ohio can transmit West Nile virus and Eastern equine encephalitis, and you may remember that a few years ago we were scared of Zika virus,” Gary said.

Are you the kind of person who is always covered in mosquito bites? As you itch and reach for that calamine lotion, you might think you have more stitches than everyone else. It’s not all in your head. It turns out that mosquitoes are attracted to certain people — and there are a few things you can do to get those bugs buzzing.

What attracts mosquitoes?

Mosquitoes are not really attracted to humans. Only female mosquitoes bite, and they look for vertebrates to bite in order to get the nutrients for the proper development of the eggs. When given a choice, mosquitoes generally choose smaller animals. These insects aren’t the best fliers and don’t have the best vision. They generally rely on a variety of attractants, including exercise and color, to find their food sources. Mosquitoes are attracted to food targets by recognizing lactic acid, CO2 – the gas we exhale – and other attractants. You will also focus on darker fabrics and shapes, as well as moving objects, as these are usually the most promising targets.

Are mosquitoes attracted to certain people?

About 20 percent of the population see an above-average incidence of mosquito bites. In fact, about 85 percent of the reasons mosquitoes are attracted to you are down to your genetics, researchers say. Things like your blood type and how much lactic acid you have on your skin play a big part. In the past, it was commonly believed that wearing perfume, eating salty snacks, or foods high in potassium like bananas increased your risk of mosquito bites. But scientists have found that these are myths.

Why mosquitoes bite some and not others

According to research, you are at a higher risk of mosquito bites if you:

are pregnant

Are obese or overweight (since you may be exhaling more CO2)

Have blood type O (you attract more mosquitoes than friends with blood type A or B)

Have recently drunk alcohol (this increases your metabolic rate and the amount of CO2 you produce)

Have a higher body temperature

have sweat on the skin

Produce more lactic acid, uric acid and octenol through your pores (these are attractants that mosquitoes detect through their antennae)

Have exercised recently (your increased metabolism increases your CO2 emissions)

move (you can spot mosquitoes more easily)

wear dark clothes (dark colors are more noticeable to mosquitoes)

Haven’t showered in a day or more (old sweat is more attractive to mosquitoes, especially species that transmit malaria)

If you don’t sweat or breathe heavily and don’t have these other risk factors, you’ll end up being bitten less. In fact, your chances of being bitten drop dramatically when you’re around people who have stronger mosquito-attracting properties. Additionally, researchers have found that people who appear to repel mosquitoes may be shedding a chemical that acts as a natural repellent. Unfortunately, replication of this chemical in the laboratory has not been successful to date.

What to do if you are a mosquito magnet

No one knows how many people around the world are bitten by mosquitoes each year, but according to the World Health Organization, more than a million die from mosquito bites every year. That is a big problem. If you’re one of the unlucky few who seem to get more than your fair share of mosquito bites, experts say there are a few things you can do to lessen your chances:

Shower after exercise to reduce the presence of sweat and CO2

Avoid exercising outdoors as you create a large cloud of CO2 that attracts mosquitoes

It is best to wear light-colored clothing and long-sleeved shirts

Avoid being outdoors in the morning and at dusk when mosquitoes are most active

Eliminate puddles and other standing water near your home where mosquitoes can breed

Another way to reduce your chances of getting bitten is to reduce the mosquito population in the area where you live. Quite simply, when there are fewer mosquitoes around, you are mathematically less likely to get bitten. A scientifically proven method of controlling mosquitoes is a mosquito trap. Mosquito Magnet® mosquito traps work by converting propane into CO2 and adding moisture, heat and secondary attractants. Essentially, the Mosquito Magnet® emits everything that makes you attractive to mosquitoes. Instead of biting you, mosquitoes approach the trap where a vacuum draws them into a web where they dehydrate and die. Because female mosquitoes are attracted to and trapped by the Mosquito Magnet®, fewer mosquitoes are available to lay eggs and reproduce. Over time, the mosquito population will be reduced, allowing you to enjoy nature again. If you want to decrease your chances of being bitten, don’t try to change your genetics. Instead, control your mosquito population with a mosquito trap from Mosquito Magnet®.

Are you a mosquito magnet?

Tell us about your efforts to reduce the mosquito population in your garden in the comments below or by visiting Mosquito Magnet® on Facebook. If you have any questions about our mosquito traps, contact us online or call us at (800) 953-5737. For more mosquito repellent ideas from Mosquito Magnet®, subscribe to our e-newsletter.

Summer is here, which means it’s time to explore the great outdoors! But as you pack your bikini, flip flops, tent and backpack, remember you are a walking meal for hungry swarms of mosquitoes and mosquitoes. Mosquitoes in Scotland can ravage walkers and holidaymakers, and foreign mosquitoes carry diseases such as chikungunya, encephalitis, yellow fever, dengue fever, malaria and now the Zika virus. There are many theories as to the best way to repel unwanted bugs, but here are our favorites:

1. Disgust them with DEET

DEET, or diethyltoluamide, was developed by the US Army in 1946 to protect soldiers traveling to insect-infested areas. Mosquitoes and gnats exposed to it cannot locate people or animals because they cannot detect the chemicals we exhale. Trek 100 is available in a variety of strengths suited to specific climates and conditions. So to keep biting insects off their trail, keep a bottle handy on your travels.

2. Don’t sweat the little things

But literally don’t sweat at all! Mosquitoes love the smell of lactic acid secreted from your glands when you sweat. A hint of body odor and they will overwhelm you. Of course, when you are outdoors, hiking or camping, sweating is inevitable. So to cover up the smell, throw biting bugs out of your lane with a spray from TREK.

3. Stink them out

It has long been said that gnats and gnats will keep their hands off you if you eat enough garlic. This technique can work because the smell of your breath will mask the smell of carbon dioxide you’re exhaling. The sulfur compounds released through the skin offer additional protection. However, there are few studies to support this technique, and chances are you’ll end up repelling more humans than insects!

4. Make a cocktail

Many DIY recipes have been used over the centuries to repel mosquitoes, but this one stands out: Some people recommend making a grain alcohol-based repellent blend and some basil oil with juniper, palmarosa, citronella, geranium, rosemary, myrrh, cedarwood, pine and lemon. This should not be consumed but left in a container in the area where you might enjoy a tastier cocktail…

5. Avoid bananas

Yes, really. It is known that eating bananas makes people more susceptible to mosquito and mosquito bites. The theory goes that as your body processes the banana, the scent leaches onto your skin, making you more attractive to biting insects. So when you head out on a hike, opt for a snack of apples or oranges instead.

6. Cause them turbulence

With their tiny wings, gnats and mosquitoes find it difficult to fly in winds greater than 8 km/h. So if you are planning a trip, keep an eye on the weather. When a breeze is blowing, you can dodge an attack. Alternatively, you can play around with a handheld fan in their airspace, or confuse their sensors with a spray of insect repellent.

7. Stop them in their tracks

In some parts of Scotland, swarms of mosquitoes can become so dense that the best solution is to completely block their path to you. You can do this by wearing a net over your face so they have absolutely no chance of biting you. Our Midge-Spec head mesh is so finely meshed that mosquitoes have no way of penetrating it. It’s also roomy enough to wear a hat or cap underneath to keep it out of your eyes. For tropical travelers, our pop up hat offers added sun protection and folds neatly into a tote bag.

8. Dress not to impress

Wear light clothing and make sure you have long sleeves and pants for areas where ticks might be present. Studies show that mosquitoes are more attracted to dark colors, making those wearing light-colored clothing less of a target. Light clothing also makes it easier for you to see if you’ve caught ticks or other insects while walking outdoors. If you are traveling to an area where mosquitoes are a problem, consider additional accessories such as a mosquito jacket or head net.

9. Play the long game

Mosquitoes and midges are most active at dusk and dawn, but some, like the Asian tiger mosquito, feed during the day. To avoid being caught, wear one of the Mosi-off bands on your wrist or ankle. The adjustable straps are treated with dry, microencapsulated DEET and slowly release a repellent vapor for seven hours a day for up to 14 days. This makes them particularly handy for two-week vacations and puts your mind at ease if you tend to forget to apply repellent.

10. Get rid of standing water

Mosquitoes and midges are masters of the art of reproduction and only need a teaspoon of standing water to provide a home for their eggs. By making sure there are no stagnant ponds nearby, you can reduce the chances of beasts hatching around you.

You might also like reading:

The 10 best facts about mosquitoes

Hiking in Scotland

Protection through innovation

When you think of summer, you might picture swimming in the pool, barbecuing in the backyard, and enjoying time outside. Unfortunately, unless you have effectively treated your garden against mosquitoes, all of these activities can and will be ruined by the buzzing, biting pests.

Luckily you can fight back. Although mosquitoes naturally live and breed in certain areas, there are certain factors that greatly increase the number of mosquitoes that end up in your yard. By paying attention to the presence of these factors and removing any culprits, you are one step closer to a mosquito-free summer.

1. Standing water

The number one factor that attracts mosquitoes to your yard is the presence of standing water in or around your yard. Mosquitoes need stagnant water to lay their eggs, and anything from a bucket of water or flower pot to a pool or fountain can turn into a breeding ground if you’re not careful.

The more standing water you have near your home, the more likely mosquitoes are to invade and feed on the pets and people in your yard. Mosquitoes don’t take long to use the standing water around your home to lay eggs, so check the outside of your home carefully for possible suspects.

Empty any small containers that might hold rainwater and any trash lying around. Mosquitoes are particularly fond of old tires, so be sure to dispose of any that are on your property. For larger bodies of water like swimming pools, make sure they are cleaned regularly and that the filters are working properly, and consider installing a fountain to keep the water circulating.

2. Wet mulch

Wet mulch, along with other common garden decorations like pine straw and wet soil in a flower bed, can keep enough moisture below the surface to attract mosquitoes. Once mosquitoes identify an area as moist enough to lay eggs, they will nest there and other mosquitoes will follow.

Once mosquitoes have established themselves under these surfaces in your yard, they will likely continue to use this area as a nest. If not treated properly, these areas can become important breeding grounds for mosquitoes, putting you and those visiting your home at risk of annoying buzzes, irritating bites, and potentially dangerous diseases.

3. Shadow

A common question many people have about mosquitoes is: where do they go during the day?

Mosquitoes don’t like the dry heat that the sun gives off during the warmer times of the day. To avoid the heat, mosquitoes will hide in any shady, cool place they can find, preferably one that is also high in humidity. If your garden offers mosquitoes plenty of shady resting places, you can be sure that they will settle nearby.

These shaded areas vary greatly from yard to yard. In general, mosquitoes hide wherever conditions are suitable; This can include parts of a house such as B. Lower decks and porches, as well as natural vegetation such as untrimmed bushes, tall grass and even low hanging branches.

4. Clogged drains

Clogged drains or drainage systems in or near your home are like an invitation for mosquitoes to hang out and lay eggs in your yard. When a drain is clogged, it’s only a matter of time before water collects in it and eventually forms a breeding ground.

To make matters worse, since it can be difficult to tell from the outside when a drain is clogged, the eggs inside have had plenty of time to hatch and develop inside. In the worst case, several generations of mosquitoes could have hatched before you realize there is a problem.

This source of mosquitoes can be easily avoided by keeping your gutters clean and properly maintaining your drains. This can be as simple as moving debris like sticks and leaves out of water runoff paths like ditches or open stormwater culverts. Just a little work here can go a long way in limiting the number of mosquitoes that land in your yard.

If you have eliminated and treated the above factors in your garden and still have a major problem with mosquitoes, it may be time to try a DIY mosquito control, although you probably won’t be able to completely eliminate the problem.

Ultimately, if you want to keep mosquitoes out of your garden for good, you will need to consult a pest control professional.

For more information on mosquitoes, what attracts them and the dangers they pose to you and your family, download our free informative e-book How to Keep Mosquitoes Out of Your Yard This Summer and protect your home from these dangerous pests .

Keep mosquitoes away from your landscape by planting to make the area less attractive to mosquitoes. In slowly draining areas of your landscape where you may find puddles in the ground after a rain, add modifications to help the soil drain, such as: B. sand or peat moss. These also help avoid puddles of water by soaking up the excess water. You can also add bat boxes to your landscape as bats are a primary mosquito predator. Adult mosquitoes also like to roam on vegetation, so reduce these areas by trimming weeds and mowing your lawn regularly.