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Keep Mosquitoes At Bay

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Mosquitoes love summer outings and they don’t mind showing up without an invitation. These annoying uninvited guests can turn a pleasant gathering into a nightmare of swatting and itching. Female mosquitoes are especially troublesome because they need blood in order to produce a healthy brood of eggs. Most mosquitoes are active at dawn and dusk but there are also mosquitoes that seek hosts during the day. There are 150 different mosquito species that live in this country.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize the chances of mosquitoes ruining your outdoor summer fun. It helps to understand a little bit about them. Mosquito larvae thrive in brackish stagnant water such as is found in discarded tires, clogged gutters and shallow ponds. The larvae develop into adults and leave the water about seven days after the female lays her eggs. Depending on the species, a female can lay between 100 and 400 eggs and produce a brood every two to three days (about 3,000 eggs in a lifetime). Removing any items containing stagnant water in your yard will greatly reduce your mosquito population.

If you are going to be outside for any length of time, be sure to wear light-colored clothing. Mosquitoes love dark clothing. They also love strong sweet smells so don’t use concentrated perfumes, deodorants, lotions, hair gels or hair sprays before attending a summer outing.

There are several types of plants that can repel mosquitoes. Citronella grass is used to make candles and citronella oil. Catnip is another good repellant. Rosemary, which is commonly grown in herb gardens, is also helpful. Marigolds have a smell that mosquitoes and many other insects find objectionable. The aforementioned plants can also be used to make an all-natural mosquito repellant. All you have to do is crush the leaves and flowers to release the oils and put them in alcohol. Once the plants have infused the liquid you can use the mixtures just as you would other repellants.

There is some evidence that suggests taking zinc supplements may make you less susceptible to mosquito bites. Bear in mind that it takes about a month to build up enough zinc in your system to discourage insects.

If you do get bitten there are many natural remedies to help reduce the itching and discomfort brought on by mosquito bites. Apple cider vinegar applied directly to the bite can help. You can also make a paste out of witch hazel and baking soda to relieve itching. Lavender oil applied to the bite can also reduce itchiness. Holding an ice cube on the area immediately after being bitten will reduce the chances of swelling.

So go ahead and plan your summer outing so you can enjoy the beautiful warm weather with your family and friends. Use natural methods to keep the mosquitoes at bay and hopefully the uninvited guests will stay away.