Bug Repellent Safety

Check your bug repellent and skincare ingredients with the toxic ingredients list.

The Hazards of DEET  http://www.environmentalhealth.ca/spring03hazards.html http://chemistry.about.com/cs/howthingswork/a/aa042703a.htm

Avoid repellents that contain permethrin or malathion, which are stronger pesticides and should not be applied to the skin, especially children's skin.

Citronella Safety:

Ottawa questions safety of citronella lotions. http://www.cbc.ca/stories/2004/07/27/science/citronella_040727

Castor Bean Toxins: http://chemistry.about.com/cs/toxicchemicals/a/aa040403a.htm

Safer Options:

Super Bug Shield Repellent:
A natural blend of essential oils, which includes catnip oil and herbal infusion. Researchers report that nepetalactone, the essential oil in catnip that gives the plant its characteristic odour, is about ten times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET (the compound used in most commercial insect repellents) and unlike DEET is safe for infants. Catnip is a perennial herb belonging to the mint family and grows wild in most parts of the United States, although it also is cultivated for commercial use. Catnip is native to Europe and was introduced to this country in the late 18th century. It is primarily known for the stimulating effect it has on cats, although some people use the leaves in tea, as a meat tenderizer and even as a folk treatment for fevers, colds, cramps and migraines.  www.naturalbodycare.ca

 Ingredients: Soybean Oil, Purified Water, Coconut Oil, Glycerin, Geranium Oil, Citric Acid, Lecithin, Sodium Bicarbonate and Vanillin   http://www.homs.com/

Ingredient list was not available for the following so check the labels before purchase or email them.

Their claim is that they are natural.

http://www.quantumhealth.com/productgroups/itchandbite.html

http://www.cranberrylane.com/recipes-body-care.htm#summer

Home Made Bug Sprays  http://www.taoherbfarm.com/herbs/resources/bugspray.htm

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