Introduction
The use of insect repellents is crucial for avoiding itchy or painful bug bites and diseases that insects transmit. N, N-diethyl-3-methyl benzamide (DEET), applied to exposed skin, and permethrin, applied to clothing, are the two most popular and efficient products. When used as directed, both are secure. Other repellents, such as a range of plant-derived goods, have also been utilized, although their effects often need to be more substantial or long-lasting.
Millions of people travel to nations with malaria and other mosquito-borne (diseases spread by mosquitoes) every year. In some situations, these illnesses might result in fatalities and severe illness. It is crucial to avoid mosquito-borne diseases if people want to stay healthy while traveling.
How Important Is an Insect Repellent When People Travel to an Area With Mosquito-Borne Disease?
Using an insect repellent will aid in preventing exposure to mosquitoes that transmit diseases, including dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and malaria. Anyone can use insect repellent on their skin and clothing to prevent insects.
The physician might also advise taking a malaria prevention pill (antimalarial drug) to prevent the disease. However, they are only minimally effective. This is why everyone needs to apply insect repellent and take other precautions to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes.
How Safe Is It to Use Insect Repellent?
Before they can be sold in stores, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) must register the majority of insect repellents that can be used topically. When an insect repellent is registered with the EPA, it has undergone human safety testing and is reliable when used as directed on the label. Check for the EPA clearance on the title before purchasing an insect repellent.
What Are Some Natural Ingredients That Are Used as Insect Repellents?
Mosquitoes typically attack people because of fragrance, light, heat, and humidity. People have itchy, rough skin if they attract mosquitoes. The following natural compounds can be utilized as insect repellent:
Lemon Eucalyptus Oil: It is one of the more well-known natural repellents that has been in use since the 1940s. Eucalyptus oil is a mosquito-repellent component that has received approval from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A study found that a blend of 32 percent lemon eucalyptus oil offered more than 95 percent protection from mosquitoes for three hours. People can make their concoction with one part lemon eucalyptus oil and ten parts sunflower oil or witch hazel. Researchers advise against administering the cocktail to children younger than three.
Lavender: Mosquito-repelling oil and aroma are produced when lavender blossoms are crushed. In research on animals, on hairless mice, lavender oil effectively deters adult mosquitoes. Additionally, lavender also has analgesic, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. This indicates that it can soothe and calm the skin and avoid mosquito bites. Lavender can be grown indoors or outside in containers. Apply the oil to the bite-prone parts of the body, such as on ankles and arms, after crushing the flowers. Add lavender oil to the skin by dropping some on a clean cloth.
Cinnamon Oil: Cinnamon is more than just a delicious addition to oatmeal or apple sauce. A study claims that cinnamon oil can eradicate mosquito eggs. Additionally, it can serve as a deterrent for adult mosquitoes, notably the Asian tiger mosquito. For every four ounces of water, add 1/4 teaspoon (or 24 drops) of oil to get a diluted one percent solution. The fluid can be sprayed around the house, furniture, plants, and even the skin or clothing. Applying concentrated amounts of cinnamon oil can irritate the skin, so use caution.
Thyme Oil: It is one of the most effective deterrents for malaria-carrying mosquitoes. One of the animal studies found that 91 percent of hairless mice were protected when five percent of thyme oil was administered to their skin. According to research, burning thyme leaves provides 85 percent protection for 60 to 90 minutes. In a handcrafted brew, four drops of thyme oil should be added for every teaspoon of base oil, such as olive or jojoba oil. Five drops of thyme oil should be added to two ounces of water to make a spray.
Greek Catmint Oil: Nepeta parnassica, a plant in the same mint family as catnip, can repel mosquitoes. The white and pink blossoms can reach a height of 18 inches. However, the most valuable parts are the extract and oil from the damaged leaves. According to a study, the plant's oil can efficiently repel mosquitoes for two to three hours. Researchers discovered that catnip is ten times more effective at keeping mosquitoes away than DEET.
Soybean Oil: According to studies, soybean oil products, such as bite block kids, which contain two percent soybean oil, might offer reliable mosquito defense. One can add a little lemongrass oil to the homemade combination in addition to the soybean oil. Various mosquito species have been tested to be protected by the cross.
Citronella: It is an essential oil commonly used in nature that repels mosquitoes. It is a common element in insect repellents and is made from a combination of herbs. Citronella candles can offer up to 50 percent more protection when used outside. According to research, citronella's potency depends on how it is made. When the product is prepared correctly, it can provide protection for up to two hours and is just as effective as DEET. Citronella can quickly evaporate if the formula is incorrect.
How to Put an Insect Repellent on a Child?
The following steps should be taken care of:
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Comply with the label's instructions.
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Follow the instructions on the instructions page to use an insect repellent.
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Do not apply more DEET than 30 percent to a child.
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Young children under three should not use insect repellent containing lemon eucalyptus.
What Are the Preventive Measures for the Insect Bite?
The following are some preventive measures:
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Put on a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, and a hat when outside.
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For added protection, spray insect repellent on clothing, or buy a permethrin-treated product to treat clothing and a bed net to keep insects away.
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Sleep in a room with good ventilation, air conditioning, or a bed net coated with permethrin. This is because nighttime is when most malarial mosquitoes bite.
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When biting mosquitoes are most active, stay inside.
Conclusion
Repellants should only be applied to exposed flesh and clothing. Apply sparingly around the ears and avoid getting any on your eyes or lips. Avoid spraying directly into the face while using sprays.
