Trying out natural flying insect repellents may or may not pay off.
Despite a lack of solid research proving that natural products repel flying insects --- both outside and in --- many people turn to plants and household items to help curb the pests. Because of the lack of proof and developing research, use these products in a trial-and-error process. Some of these products work better than others, according to scientific studies. Does this Spark an idea?
Plants
Small, decorative pots containing basil in your kitchen or around your house can help deter flying insects inside. Basil is a plant powerhouse known to repel flies and mosquitoes. Marigolds are also thought to be pest deterrents. Their summery colors can make a nice addition in your kitchen or around your home. Many people plant marigolds around their garden because they are relatively pest-free, which suggests they repel pests. Science is still lacking on whether they actually repel pests from other plants, but they are known to attract beneficial predators such as lacewings and ladybugs.
Essential Oils
Several essential oils are thought or known to repel insects. Lemon eucalyptus is commonly used in commercial repellents. Synthesized oil of lemon eucalyptus found in several insect repellents with a "natural" label is recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC warns, however, that pure oil of lemon eucalyptus has not gone through the same testing as the synthesized product. Other essential oils that have shown at least some insect-repelling properties include eucalyptus, mint, peppermint, rosemary, lemongrass, clove, citronella and neem. Neem oil is a widely used insecticide and fungicide for plants, as well. Never apply pure, undiluted essential oil to your skin. Always dilute and test a small portion of skin before applying the oil liberally.
Homemade Traps and Repellents
Again, scientific evidence is lacking, but these homemade tips and tricks may work. To repel flies, wrap bay leaves, eucalyptus and cloves in small cheesecloth squares near open doors and windows. To make flypaper, cut strips of brown craft paper, soak them in a solution of a quarter cup of syrup and 1 tbsp. each of white and brown sugar, then let them dry overnight. Hang them around fly-heavy areas. Hot pepper and garlic solutions are also thought to repel insects. Steep garlic cloves or hot peppers in water or vinegar to make a spray.
Preventative Measures
Sanitation and exclusion are the two keys to controlling flying insects in your home. Sanitation is particularly effective against flies. To discourage flies from entering your home, clean up any breeding sites. Many houseflies will breed and lay eggs in garbage bins and around piled-up dishes and other food stuffs. Without a decent breeding site, flies will seek somewhere else to breed. To discourage pantry moths, seal your foods in air-tight containers. Plastic bags and cardboard boxes don't work; the moths and their larvae can still get in. Keep your screens tight on your windows and doors, and seal any other areas through which flying bugs can enter.
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