Peppermint oil has been used through the ages for a number of medicinal, cosmetic and food preparation purposes. It has an invigorating, uplifting aroma and can be used in aromatherapy to help create energy. But did you know that it is effective for natural pest control?
Peppermint oil is a great alternative to the mainstream harsh chemical and plastic packaged pest control options. Let’s have a look at some of the problems associated with the mainstream pest control, and why peppermint oil is one of the most effective essential oils as a natural pest control solution for repelling the creepy crawlies.
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Chemical pest control options have proliferated in modern times due to their efficacy in killing pests rapidly. But, these chemicals are harmful to humans and other animals through several ways:
According to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), there is a huge list of chemical pesticides approved for use in Australia, some of which are banned by the EU.
To quote the WWF “In Europe pesticides have to be proven safe – in terms of human health, residues in the food chain and the environment – in order to be allowed in the European market”. Australia doesn’t apply the same precautionary approach.
One of the most common chemicals found in Australian pest control products, Permethrin, is prohibited in the EU. It is classified as likely carcinogenic to humans. Of concern to the environment is also the plastic containers that household pest control products come in. Think cockroach baits, moth repellent strips for the wardrobe. They generally end up in landfill.
Another common household insect repellent is Naphthalene. This is the ingredient in mothballs. The Australian Government has taken action on Naphthalene due to Paediatricians’ warnings that it can cause damage to blood cells (more info here) It can cause a condition called Haemolytic Anaemia. In new born babies, exposure to this substance can cause brain damage. The warning from doctors is to restrict usage around children under three. You can be exposed to the toxicity just from inhaling naphthalene vapours. It’s enough to make your skin crawl!
Read more : DIY Detox Foot Soak
In addition to human diseases, harsh chemical pest control methods increase resistance in insects and contamination of the environment.
There is often a natural solution to many household quandaries, such as essential oils like peppermint oil. The major chemical compounds found in peppermint oil include terpene, alcohol and menthol. Each one is a natural fumigant through smell.
Insects and rodents’ smell receptors pick up on the compounds and are repelled effectively. In the scientific journal search engine, PubMed, an article (link below) discusses the effectiveness of menthol against mosquitoes in particular.
The study concludes that menthol is as effective at repelling mosquitoes as DEET. Another handy by-product of peppermint oil is that it is an effective antimicrobial, particularly against E. coli and S. aureus.
We hope this has inspired you to practice natural pest control. It is a healthy yet invigorating way to send a clear message to creepy crawlies to stay out!
Buy Peppermint Essentials Oils at Biome
Biome offers top quality essential oils by reputable Australian brands:
Essentially Australia
Read more : Essential Oils for Dark Circles
Perfect Potion
Dindi
Tinderbox
Mt Retour
Further Reading
Properties and Uses of Essential Oils
Essential Oils to Fragrance your Home
http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/factsheets/Pages/naphthalene.aspx https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19551736 https://www.ajol.info/index.php/tjpr/article/viewFile/93279/82692 https://apvma.gov.au/node/11781
Source: https://gardencourte.com
Categories: Recipe
This post was last modified on 21/10/2023 01:21
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