Non-Toxic Summer Products (Bug Spray)
Spending time outdoors in the summer can be some of the most memorable times you'll have, however, they can be ruined by mosquitos and other insects looking to bite into you.
Insect repellants are great at keeping the bugs off you, however, most that you'll buy in the store contain chemicals that are just as harmful to humans as they are to insects.
We will discuss what toxic substances are present in some bug sprays and discuss non-toxic options for bug sprays.
What Toxins Are in Your Bug Spray?
Bug sprays that are used by the masses typically contain a chemical called DEET. This is a chemical that can cause health problems in people, especially small children and pregnant women. It's a known eye irritant, a skin irritant and can even cause neurological problems.
Insects don't have the same issues with DEET as humans do, so it's meant to be a stronger version of what insects are used to coming across in nature.
Other toxic ingredients you'll find in bug sprays include:
Permethrin - Permethrin can cause mild skin irritation and burning. Excessive exposure to permethrin can cause nausea, headache, muscle weakness, excessive salivation, shortness of breath, and seizures.
Picaridin - Although deemed safe for human consumption, Picaridin is mildly toxic to fish and plants. Tests have shown that algae in water treated with Picaridin experienced a slower growth rate, which can simulate what happens to water plant life when bug spray washes off your body when you go for a swim.
Non-Toxic Bug Sprays That Work Well
There are a few natural bug sprays out there that can keep bugs away without being toxic for humans.
Here are some great non-toxic options:
Now Foods Bug Ban Spray
Bug Ban Spray is an all natural bug spray produced by Now Foods. This product is made with natural essential oils citronella, lemongrass, rosemary, and thyme. These essential oils work together to keep insects away from your skin without the use of harsh chemicals.
Badger Bug Spray
Badger Anti-Bug Shake & Spray uses the aromas of wintergreen, rosemary, lemongrass, peppermint, and citronella to repel insects. It can be wet and oily upon initial application, however it will dry after 5-10 minutes. You also need to make sure that you apply every bit of exposed skin and reapply every hour, especially if you are sweating heavily.
Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent
This bug spray uses both DEET and Picaridin, however, collectively, they make up only 5% of the spray by volume, making them virtually harmless. Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent relies heavily on oil of lemon eucalyptus to repel insects as it makes up 30% of the spray. This is one of the best choices for bug spray in heavily infested areas.
Oilogic Bug Bites & Itches
This roll-on essential oil-based product is used to soothe the irritation from bug bites. Oilogic Bug Bites & itchesmay not prevent insects from biting, however, all-natural essential oils will work to cut down on the itching so your skin can heal back effectively. Their products are also free from behavioral toxins, carcinogens, developmental toxins, endocrine disruptors, heavy metals, neurotoxins, pesticides, reproductive toxins, VOCs and toxic solvents, so you and your family are safe to use their products.
Protect Yourself From Bugs and Toxic Chemicals
It's very important to protect yourself from diseases and irritation from insect bites, however, you need to be careful of what you're putting on your skin. Wearing long sleeves and pants can also help with preventing bug bites, however, reach for these products if you'd like to show some skin without the bug bites that come along with it.
