Wednesday, June 17, 2009

Green Tip of the Day

Natural insect repellents and remedies are far safer for both humans and the environmental than synthetic pesticides and repellents.

Mother Nature has given certain plants specific aromas to repel harmful insects. In addition to the botanicals listed below, eating garlic or taking garlic supplements helps fight off pesky insects. Whenever you're camping, carry a bee sting kit or homeopathic medicine

Botanical Uses
Aloe vera (gel) Soothes stings and burns
Calendula (cream, gel, lotion) Soothes bites and burns
Cedarwood (essential oil)
Repels houseflies
Chamomile (essential oil) Relieves bites and stings
Citronella (essential oil) Repels houseflies and mosquitoes
Eucalyptus (essential oil)
Repels insects, relieves bites
Geranium (essential oil) Repels houseflies and mosquitoes
Lavender (essential oil) Soothes stings and burns
Mints, especially peppermint (herbal tea, essential oil)
Repels ants
Pine (essential oil) Repels fleas, soothes bites
Tea tree (essential oil) Relieves bites and stings
Note: Only lavender and tea tree oils can be used without dilution. Blend other essential oils with apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, or witch hazel before applying to the skin.

TasteForLife.com