Mosquito Bites: What To Do To Avoid?
Mosquitoes are very irritating pests, not only because of the unpleasant bites, but also because of the possible allergic reactions or diseases they can transmit. However, it is possible to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites from some information and homemade and natural tips to ward them off.
Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide, released by the body as we breathe, in addition to heat and humidity. These insects are guided by their excellent sense of smell to select where they will sink their ‘teeth’, which are nothing more than a kind of very thin mouthpiece.
Taking this detail into account, it is worth knowing which scents they prefer and which are repulsive to them. Next, we’ll present some recommendations for avoiding stings.
Aromas that attract mosquitoes
The chemical components of the human body act as a radar for these little insects. They can mainly sense ammonia, lactic acid and carboxylic acids. In fact, the Aedes Aegypti mosquito, which is considered to carry viruses such as yellow fever or dengue fever, cannot resist lactic acid.
In turn, species such as Anopheles Gambiae – a malaria mosquito – tend to get closer more often to those who accumulate sweat for several days. That’s why those who don’t have access to proper hygiene are more likely to be bitten by mosquitoes.
Another type of population susceptible to mosquito bites are pregnant women, especially in the last stage of pregnancy, as they exude a greater amount of carbon dioxide. Expectant mothers are especially vulnerable to these stings, so be careful.
Scents to repel mosquito bites
While some people have a genetic shield to repel mosquitoes, the fact is, most of us need to prevent and fight these nasty insects. During the summer, the slightest sweating on the skin makes the mosquitoes come closer. However, there are scents and plants that drive them away.
Some plant species, such as sage – which is antimicrobial – work effectively as natural repellents against mosquito bites. Other examples are thyme, cinnamon, eucalyptus or cumin. Eucalyptus oil is especially recommended for use in cases of long outdoor walks.
Home and hygiene tips to keep mosquitoes away
- Mosquitoes breed in standing water. Therefore, we must not keep any forgotten buckets of water or garbage at home. We should also not accumulate rubble, leaves, wood or unused objects in piles, as mosquitoes can hide between spaces during the day and come out when the sun goes down.
- Mosquito bites occur mainly at dusk and dawn. During these times, care must be redoubled, especially for children.
- Bathing at least twice a day would be ideal so that these insects are not attracted to excess. Also, avoid very dark tones in clothes, as they are your favourites.
- In tropical regions, mountains or near water sources, it is best to use mosquito nets for the crib or bed. However, if the net has a hole, the solution is likely to be worse than the problem itself. Therefore, it is essential to make sure every night that there are no holes.
Aromas and products effective as repellents
- For windows, mosquito nets can be sprayed with permethrin or eucalyptus essence.
- The most effective and safest repellents for mosquito bites are those that contain diethyltoluamide (DEET), a component approved by the World Health Organization.
- Mosquito Traps : When putting citrus detergent in a bowl, mosquitoes will enter the trap. They are also very fond of beer. Dry ice is another trap they love, as it is an element that releases a lot of carbon dioxide, one of their favorite scents.
- To ward off mosquitoes, you can use several tricks. For example, mix yeast, sugar and water in a bowl. Citronella and boiled garlic, on the other hand, will also amaze you. Other anti-mosquito aromas are camphor and mint.
In conclusion, it is a good idea to always be prepared to avoid mosquito bites, both indoors and outdoors. For this, the most convenient is to reduce the amount of insecticides and bet on homemade solutions, so as not to end up poisoning the entire house.
