Protect your home with citrus oil.
Used as a low-toxicity insect repellent, the citrus oil derivative limonene is effective against common household pests such as fleas, fire ants, silverfish and roaches. Citrus oil extracts also are known as d-limonene or linalool. Does this Spark an idea?
Manufacture
Limonene is extracted from citrus rinds, most commonly those of oranges. After the fruit is squeezed for the juice industry, the peels are processed with steam. Citrus oil accumulates on the condensed water and is harvested for fragrance, cleaning products and -- most recently -- insecticides.
Use
Citrus oil is a contact insecticide that's safe for use around food and animals. Insecticides containing citrus oil include fire ant mound drenches, flea control perimeter and pet sprays, and insect repellents.
Cautions
While citrus oil has "low oral and dermal toxicity to mammals, birds and fish," it can irritate skin, writes Karen Russ of Clemson University's Home and Garden Information Center. Further, Michael Merchant, Urban Entomologist at Texas AgriLife Extension Service, cautions that cats may be sensitive to citrus-based flea products.
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