Mosquitoes can transmit diseases like malaria and West Nile virus.
Mice, mosquitoes, silverfish, beetles, flies and aphids are all common home and garden pests that can be controlled through the use of poisons and chemical repellents. However, these pesticides also contribute to the toxicity of our environment and can adversely affect the health of our families and pets. Eco-friendly and non-toxic pest-control alternatives are available and can be as effective as chemical poisons and repellents. These include natural bug sprays, garden plants that repel pests, mechanical traps and beneficial insects. Does this Spark an idea?
Mechanical Traps
Rat poison is highly toxic and dangerous for children, pets and wildlife and can introduce dangerous chemicals into the home and nearby water supply. A simple spring-loaded mouse trap is a reusable, low-cost, safe and non-toxic alternative to poisoned bait.
Natural Bug Spray
Chemical mosquito repellents contain harmful toxins such as diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET), and in some countries, thalidomide. You can avoid exposing your family and yourself to these chemicals and still keep mosquitoes away by using natural fragrances, such as lemon balm and eucalyptus oils. Celery juice also serves as a low-cost, homemade bug repellent when you spray it on skin and clothing.
Insect-Repellent Plants
Insects are attracted to and repelled by scents in the air. Many cooking herbs and flowers that people find attractive and fragrant are repulsive to mosquitoes and beetles. Herbs such as basil, thyme, rosemary, lemon balm, citronella, chives and lemon grass all naturally repel home and garden insect pests and are safe enough to eat.
Beneficial Insects
Vegetable and flower gardens are targets for harmful insects such as aphids and cucumber beetles that eat the leaves and fruit of plants. Although chemical pesticides will prevent an insect infestation, they also expose the fruit and vegetables to toxins. However, a gardener can fight off harmful insects by introducing beneficial insects such as aphids, assassin bugs and praying mantis to eat insect pests.
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