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Get Rid Of Fruit Flies With These 6 Homemade Fruit Fly Traps

July 13, 2015

There’s no doubt about it, fruit flies are an incredibly common, and incredibly irritating household pest.

Found in homes across the land, particularly during the summer months, these flies reproduce at a ridiculously fast rate (they can lay up to 500 eggs at a time), meaning once you’ve got one buzzing around your kitchen, it is likely to be joined by swarms of friends in no time at all.

Fruit flies thrive in moist damp places, so they are most commonly found around the sink and garbage disposal drains, as well as close to fruits and other foods (particularly rotting or fermenting foods), but these makes baited fruit fly traps very effective!

Signs of a fruit fly infestation

If you’ve got a fruit fly infestation, you’ll probably know about it as you’re sure to spot both the adult flies and the pupae around your home. The adult fruit flies are often seen flying around the kitchen or trash cans, and are particularly present around decaying fruit and vegetables, as well as liquor and beer bottles.

Once they start to mature, the fruit fly larvae crawl out of the breeding material and into a nearby dry spot where they pupate. Although it is easy to mistake the fruit fly larvae for rodent or cockroach droppings, they are distinguishable by a pair of horns on one end of the pupae.

So, in an attempt to rid your kitchen of these pesky fruit flies, here are our top homemade fruit fly traps that will allow you to kill and remove fruit flies quickly and simply… Getting rid of fruit flies is simple when you use the following traps.

Simple fruit fly bowl trap

Fruit Jar/Bowl Fruit Fly Trap

Fruit flies are huge fans of fruit, so this is the perfect way to lure them into your fruit fly trap.

You will need…

A glass jar or a bowl
Saran Wrap
A toothpick
Some very ripe or overripe fruit
Soapy water
Rubber band

Making the trap…

Take several pieces of ripe, ideally overripe fruit, and place them in the bottom of the glass jar or bowl.

Cover the jar with Saran Wrap, securing it with a rubber band.

Using the toothpick, poke holes in the wrap.

Set the jars around the house, focusing in the areas where the fruit flies seem to congregate. The flies will be drawn to the trap and will successfully find their way in, but won’t be able to get out.

When the jar is full enough, submerge it in a bucket of warm, soapy water and allow it to sit for around 10 minutes to kill off the fruit flies.

Rinse out the jar, then refill it with overripe fruit and repeat the process. Your home will be fruit fly free in no time at all.

Fruit fly Jar Trap

Apple Cider Vinegar Fruit Fly Trap

This is an incredibly simple trap that should help to catch any rogue fruit flies. This fruit fly trap works on the concept that fruit flies can’t resist the smell of fermentation and so flock towards the apple cider vinegar, which is, of course, made from fermented apples.

You will need…

A mason jar (or similar)
A funnel
½ Cup Apple Cider Vinegar
A drop of dish soap
A piece of ripe or overripe fruit

Making the trap…

<Firstly, heat the apple cider vinegar and pour it into the mason jar. The vinegar should be just deep enough for the flies to drown.

Add a couple of drops of dish soap to the apple cider vinegar. This will break the surface tension of the liquid and prevent the flies from sitting on the top and flying away.

Insert your funnel into the mouth of the jar and tape it in place. If you don’t have access to a funnel, simply roll up a piece of paper to make one. The flies will then enter the jar through the funnel, but won’t be able to get back out again.

To make the jar extra tempting, drop in a piece of ripe fruit and allow it to break down in the mixture.

Now all you need to do is wait! If you find that the flies don’t drown when they enter the jar, simply place it in the freezer for around 20 minutes and that should kill the fruit flies.

Red Wine Fruit Fly Trap

Like many of us humans, fruit flies are drawn to red wine and, once you’ve caught them, it’s easy to kill them in their intoxicated state.

You will need…

A small amount of red wine
Wine bottle

Making the trap…

This fruit fly trap is extremely easy to make! Simply leave a small amount (around half a glass) of red wine at the bottom of the bottle.

Leave the open bottle out on a surface, close to where the fruit flies seem to lurk. The flies will flock to the wine, fly into the bottle, and then get stuck.

The flies should drown in the wine, but if they don’t, simply place the bottle in the freezer or fill it with warm soapy water.

Unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar Fruit Fly Trap

You will need…

A bottle of apple cider vinegar (it doesn’t need to be full!)
Saran Wrap
Rubber Band
Toothpick

Making the trap…

Firstly, remove the cap from your bottle of apple cider vinegar. Remember, it doesn’t necessarily need to be a full bottle, a nearly empty bottle will have the same effect.

Cover the opening of the bottle with Saran Wrap and secure it in place with a rubber band.

Using the toothpick, poke a hole in the Saran Wrap to allow the fruit flies to enter the bottle.

Put the bottle in the main problem area and then sit back and wait. The flies will be attracted by the scent of the vinegar and, once they enter the bottle, they’ll find themselves stuck and will drown.

Old Farmer’s Fruit Fly Trap

This tried and true homemade flytrap method has been used for centuries. Although it might seem like an unusual recipe, it’s a sure fire way to get rid of fruit flies.

You will need…

1 Pint of milk
¼ Pound of raw sugar
2 Ounces of ground pepper

Making the trap…

Combine the milk, sugar, and pepper in a saucepan and allow the mixture to simmer over a low heat for around 10 minutes.

Next, pour the mixture into shallow dishes and place them around the house, strategically targeting the spots that the fruit flies seem to flock to most. We’re not entirely sure why, but the fruit flies are drawn to the mixture and, once they land in it, will quickly drown.

If you notice that the flies seem to be landing and flying away rather than drowning, simply add a drop or two of dish soap.

The Bottle Fruit Fly Trap

This is another quick and easy way to make a fruit fly trap, which uses things you’ll have lying around your home.

You will need…

An empty 2 litre plastic soda bottle
Heavy duty packing tape
Some rotting fruit or vegetables

Making the trap…

Take a pair of scissors and carefully cut the empty soda bottle into two parts. You should make the cut approximately ¼ to 1/3 of the way down the bottle to ensure that the bottom half is larger that the top half.

Remove the cap from the top of the bottle and turn the top half upside down.

Take a few pieces of rotten produce (potatoes seem to work particularly well) and place them in the bottom half of the bottle.

Take the top half of the bottle and place it upside down inside the bottom half, creating a funnel effect.

Next, tape the two halves of the bottle together to ensure that they stay securely in place.

Prevention is better than cure…

Homemade Lemongrass Fruit Fly Spray

This isn’t technically a fruit fly trap, and it won’t kill the fruit flies, but it should help to keep them away from your home. And we all know that prevention is better than cure.

You will need…

10 Drops of Lemongrass essential oil
A clean spray bottle
2 Ounces of hot water

Instructions…

Start by pouring 2 ounces of hot water into the spray bottle.

Add 10 drops of Lemongrass essential oil and shake well to mix the two ingredients together.

Spray the Lemongrass mixture over windowsills and doorways. This should keep the flies away. If you notice any fruit flies around the house, you can also spray the mixture directly onto them.

As well as keeping fruit flies out of your home, the Lemongrass spray also leaves a nice, refreshing citrus scent around the house.

Eliminate the source of the problem

Cover, or store ripe fruit in the refrigerator

There are a number of simple steps that you can take to eliminate the source of the fruit flies and keep them out of your house.

Firstly, make sure that you don’t leave any ripened fruit or vegetables exposed. Get a fruit bowl cover or keep them in the refrigerator where the flies can’t get to them.

In addition to this, you should also clean your recycling bins regularly and make sure that any bottles or jars you place within the recycling bin are clean and free from food residue.

If you compost your food waste, make sure your compost bin is positioned as far away from your house as possible.

You should also check that your garbage cans are free from any small bits of food or liquids.

The fruit fly traps listed on this post are highly effective at trapping and killing fruit flies. Combined with the common sense prevention advice, getting rid of fruit flies should be easy and your home will be fruit fly free in no time at all.

(Images from: Downtowngal & cheeseslave)

Natural Tick Repellent Recipes & Tick Bite Prevention Tips

July 7, 2015

Tick before and after feeding

Before we discuss natural tick repellent recipes and tick bite prevention, let’s take a moment to learn a little more about ticks and their dangers.

Ticks. They’re rightly considered to be one of the most unpleasant pests of the insect world. However for those who love nature, or those who are even outside for any longer than a little while, the likelihood of getting a tick bite can be pretty high. Also, whilst the internet is full of blogs, guides and articles, it seems that many seem to conflict with one another as to how to avoid tick bites.

So let’s take a look everything you need to know about ticks, from the symptoms of a tick bite, right through to the natural tick repellents that actually work, and along the way, we’ll try to debunk the most common tick myths and misunderstandings.

Ticks – A little about our not-so-friendly critters

As far as insects go, it’s safe to say that ticks are very unpleasant. They’re ugly, difficult to spot, painful and their feeding habits are pretty disgusting.

What’s more, as they latch on and don’t let go until they’re filled with blood, you can be stuck with a tick for anything from a matter of days through to a number of weeks. And once full, they can reach the size of a marble, turning a green blue colour, before falling off.

Oh, and did we mention that when they fall off after they’ve been a right pain, they quite simply roll over and die. Pretty pointless, right?

And what happens if you do pull them off?

Well, without wanting to put anyone off their dinner, if you pull off a tick that is in full latch mode, you’ll likely end up with just the body, with the head remaining firmly underneath your skin. This can then lead to both a painful and potentially dangerous abscess that has the potential to turn sceptic.

The serious side of tick bites

Whilst we can laugh at the irony of the fate of the tick after they’ve had their meal from us, the serious side to tick bites is not quite as funny. Particularly as these little fellas can be responsible for spreading:

Lyme disease
Ehrlichiosis
Anaplasmosi
Tularemia
Babesiosis

Symptoms of a tick bite

Not sure whether you’ve been bitten by a tick? Well the following symptoms can all appear within a matter of the minutes after the bite.

A red, inflamed sport or a circular rash around the bite, that’s also know as the ‘halo’
Stiff neck and shoulders
Headaches, nausea or a ‘foggy’ head
Sudden weakness
Aching muscles, joint pain and overall wellness
Fever, a fluctuating temperature or chills
Swollen, painful lymph nodes

The truth behind the blood type myth

There’s been many a myth circulated in the past concerning whether ticks are attracted, or repelled, by certain blood types. But we can clear this up once and for all by assuring you that it is absolute nonsense. Ticks are creatures of opportunity and, if they see a nice bit of flesh that’s within reaching distance, they’ll latch on. It’s as simple as that.

So what about the unlucky ones who seem to get bitten ALL of the time?

Well it would seem that this is simply down to bad luck (as well as perhaps a poor choice of clothing and repellent). However, with all of the helpful tips and tricks that are stored within this blog article for you, your luck, when it comes to ticks, is about to get whole lot better.

Homemade Natural Tick Repellent Recipes

Neem leaves have great natural tick repellent properties

Recipe One: Natural Tick Repellent For your clothes

Ingredients that you’ll need

5 Cloves of Garlic (around one bulb)
2 Tablespoons of crushed Neem Leaves
1 and half Lemons (skin and all)
2 Cups of Water

Equipment that you’ll need

Stove
Sauce Pan
Strainer
Funnel
Spray Bottle
Measuring Cup
Measuring Spoons
Knife
Cutting Board

Natural tick repellent, a case note: The garlic ingredient in this recipe is an important element to add and has notably been found to reduce the chances of being bitten by a tick by as much as 21%. This may go some way to explaining why some of us are luckier than others, as for those with a high garlic content diet, the residual garlic within our sweat may serve as a natural repellent.

Natural tick repellent for your clothes: Step by Step

Step One – Heat up your water.

Step Two – Whilst the water is heating up dice up your lemon and garlic.

You needn’t be too careful with getting your chopping precise, or too finely cut, just cut them roughly.

Step Three – Measure out two tablespoons of dried neem leaves.

Step Four – Once your water is boiling you can add in your ingredients.

Step Five – Cover you sauce pan over and leave it to simmer on a low heat for between fifteen to twenty minutes.

Step Six – Remove the mixture and set aside, leaving it to cool down.

Step Seven – Place your funnel into the spray bottle that you have a carefully positioned over the top. You should then take care to slowly pour through your mixture through the strainer. The strainer will then catch all of the solids, with the liquid filling up the spray bottle below.

Step Eight – Screw the spray bottle top back on and that’s it… you’re all done and ready to go.

Step Nine – If you do end up with any leftover repellent then it can be stored; to keep it at its most effective however, you’ll need to get it refrigerated.

Tips for applying the natural tick repellent

Perhaps the most efficient way to use any repellent is to apply it to your skin, however given the garlic ingredient within this recipe it may be wise to avoid this if you don’t want to repel humans as well as ticks! Beyond misting your skin directly you can also use this mist to apply to clothes (just do so at a reasonable distance); it’s also suitable for pets too.

Recipe Two: Natural Tick Repellent For Your skin

ACV has natural tick repellent properties

If you want to go all out and mix up some natural tick repellent for your skin as well as your clothes then the following recipe is perfect.

Ingredients that you’ll need

2 oz of apple cider vinegar, witch hazel or vodka (each is relatively as effective as the next, so feel free to choose freely between these)
2 oz Water
20-40 Drops of geranium bourbon oil

One squirt of Castile soap to help distribute the oil better (this works out to be around a quarter of a tea spoon, however this is also an optional ingredient)

Equipment that you’ll need

A glass or PET plastic spray bottle
A sauce pan

Natural tick repellent for your skin: Step by step

Step One – Add your geranium oil to the apple cider vinegar, witch hazel or vodka.

Step Two – Mix the castile soap into the mixture if you’ve chosen to include castile soap.

Step Three – Wait for the mixture to sit for a few minutes, before you go on to mix further.

Step Four – Add in the water to the mixture

Step Five – Your mixture is now all done, so fill up your spray bottle.

Ideally your spray bottle should be made from either glass or a PET plastic, as oils can otherwise leach the chemicals from certain plastics, which essentially contaminates the repellent.

Tips for applying this tick repellent

This simple recipe is easy to use, and all you need to remember is to shake the mixture well before each use. Simply spray it on exposed skin. This repellent is also suitable for your clothes.

Geranium bourbon essential oil acts as a natural tick repellent

Recipe Three: A Homemade Tick Repellent Lotion For Your Skin

As another form of the recipe above you can choose to make this natural repellent in lotion form. This arguably may be a more effective natural tick repellent as the lotion will be naturally absorbed into the skin.

Ingredients that you’ll need

2 oz of your choice of natural lotion (you can either make your own, or use any shop brought lotion)
Between 20 and 40 drops of geranium bourbon essential oil

Equipment that you’ll need

A glass or PET plastic spray bottle
A container in which to mix your ingredients

Homemade tick repellent for your skin (lotion): Step by step

Step One – Mix your oil and essentials oils into a container

Step Two – Add the mixture to your spray bottle

Tips for storing your repellent

This lotion based tick repellent should be stored in a cool, dark place. If stored as such this is a repellent that should easily last for between two to three months.

Tick Bite Prevention Tips And Advice

So you are now armed with some natural tick repellent sprays and lotions, let’s natural tick repelling education with a few well-placed tips.

Wear clothes that are light in colour

This will give you a much better chance of spotting a tick before it has time to sink its teeth into your skin.

Wear long pants along with protective footwear such as solid sneakers or hiking boots.

You can also increase your protection by tucking your shirt or top into your pants and, in particularly tick abundant areas, by wrapping some duct tape around your ankles and over your socks. This may give you a rather odd style, but it’ll certain ensure that you avoid being bitten!

Remain on well-trodden trails

If possible, you should try to stay on well-trodden tracks where over hanging vegetation and planting is minimalized. Overgrown meadows are also to be avoided if at all possible, and what’s more, this tip not only helps you avoid ticks, but additionally allows you to leave a lesser impact upon the outdoor spaces that you love.

Remember to do a daily tick check

This tip is particularly important if you’re staying out for a number of days where the chances of a tick reaching you or your clothing is heighted. You should also get a friend to help you out and check the places where you can’t, such as your back.

Once you’re home remember to check the kids and the pets

Before you set even so much as one foot over your threshold, you should check over your children and pets, and if just two or three make it in you could find yourself with a fresh littler of ticks to contend with!

When coming home after a trip to potentially tick infested zones, you should bathe or shower as soon as is possible

Ideally this should be within two hours, as ticks can tend to hide away from even the most extensive of overall body checks.

Be sure to examine not only each other and your clothes

But also your equipment, including coats, tents and day packs.

Always tumble dry your clothes that has gone on the trip with you.

If ticks have happened to latch on or hide away within these then they will be killed off when the dryer is set to a high heat setting (it’s worth noting that more recent research seems to suggest that even shorter drying times may be effective, particularly when the clothing inside isn’t wet to begin with).

If you choose to use shop brought, chemically based repellents then you should opt for those that continue between 20% and 30% DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluidine), as this is most effective.

Bare in mind however that when choosing such repellents it’s particularly important that you avoid the hands, eyes and mouths (especially when applying to a child’s skin).

Always be prepared for being bitten, including within your packing finely pointed tweezers and bite lotion.

(Images from: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen & Phongnguyen1410)

Mosquito Repellent Plants: 7 Plants That Repel Mosquitoes & Bugs

July 1, 2015

As well as the plants that repel mosquitoes, we’ve also included a few plants repel mosquitoes AND some other insects such as gnats, ticks & fleas (and other bugs); and plants that protect other plants from aphids & mites etc.

Planting and growing insect and mosquito repellent plants provide a great opportunity to get out in the garden and plant some plants which are a perfect mix of beauty and functionality. Some people are sceptical about using plants to repel bugs/insects, whilst others are 100% convinced that mosquito repellent plants do as advertized. My advice is – nothing is going to be as effective as DEET and similar pharmaceutical products, but these plants that repel mosquitoes and other bugs really do help. Many of them a beautiful in their own right, and some also have other useful properties.

The thing is – if you take natural plant based bug repellents out of the equation; the only really option is DEET based products. There are serious health concerns about the toxic effects of DEET as it is absorbed into the body through your skin. Children are thought to be most at risk from side effects, as children’s skin absorbs more DEET than an adult’s. Sure, DEET has its place and it is even vital in certain situations and locations, but I think it is always worthwhile to also consider natural cures and solutions rather than just reaching for the pharmaceutical option each and every time.

At the end of the day, if you plant some of the mosquito and bug repellent plants listed below, at the very least you’ll be getting some pretty plants that smell beautiful. If however you are still not convinced enough to plant any of these plants that repel mosquitoes and other biting insects, why not check out: All Terrain Herbal Armor DEET-Free Natural Insect Repellent, it is biodegradable, cruelty – free, and contains no petrochemicals or animal by products.

Plants That Repel Mosquitoes

Here is infographic with the keypoints, see down below for more in-depth information on each plant.

The following plants are known throughout the world to act as natural mosquito repellents. While some work better than others, incorporating these plants into your yard can reduce the concentration of these annoying, and potentially dangerous, insects. So without further ado, here’s our list of the best mosquito repellent plants.

Pennyroyal – one of the most versatile mosquito repellent plants to grow

Pennyroyal

Pennyroyal helps to repel mosquitoes, gnats and also ticks and fleas! In fact it should be your number one natural mosquito repellent plant to grow.

Pennyroyal is often used in commercial natural mosquito repellent creams and sprays. Pennyroyal is one of the best bug repellent plants in the garden, but it is best utilized as a natural mosquito repellent applied to the skin.

If you crush pennyroyal leaves and rub them onto your skin, this acts as an effective natural mosquito repellent. Additionally, you can also crush the stems and put them in pockets, bags and hats.

Natural mosquito repellent for dogs! Crushed pennyroyal leaves and stems can also be rubbed on dogs to help repel ticks and fleas. Actually you will often see dogs rubbing in pennyroyal patches when outdoors.

The most effective way to incorporate pennyroyal into your yard is to establish it as a companion plant. Many find success planting pennyroyal close to areas where they congregate. For example, planting near patios and outdoor seating areas. Pennyroyals do exceptionally well when potted. To prevent common fungal diseases that afflict this plant, spray with cooled chamomile tea after planting.

Feverfew is beautiful in its own right AND it’s a natural mosquito repellent too!

Feverfew

Feverfew is great for repelling mosquitoes and other flying biting insects. It is ideal for planting around outdoor seating areas, pathways and close to doorways and windows; for maximum benefit, plant in conjunction with citronella grass and lavender (see below). Double up with these plants that repel mosquitos etc, for maximum results.

In addition to its natural insect repellent qualities, feverfew also has many medicinal uses. It is historically used to help treat nervous disorders, headaches and it also works as a laxative and helps ease bloating.

To enhance its mosquito repelling qualities, it’s suggested to plant feverfew near outdoor seating and congregating areas in your yard. For example, plant around pathways and close to windows and doorways. If you have issues with mosquitoes entering your home, plant feverfew outside and indoors near windows.

Unlike some of the other mosquito repellent plants, feverfew is quite hardy and does quite well in a wide variety of light and soil conditions. If you’re starting plants indoors, it’s best to group 3 or 4 seeds together in 1/4-inch deep soil. Don’t bury seeds deep in the soil, as this plant is light dependent to spark germination and growth. It’s safe to transplant after the first true leaves have grown. Make sure to give feverfew around 8 to 12-inches of space between other plants. Again, this is one of the best bug repellent plants to grow in your garden.

To take advantage of its medicinal uses, harvest flowers when they’re in full bloom and harvest leaves just before the plant starts to flower. Harvesting at these times ensures the maximum concentration of medicinal compounds.

Citronella grass – a versatile natural insect repellent

Citronella grass

Citronella grass is an old favourite; everyone knows it is commonly used as an insect and natural mosquito repellent in outdoor candles, which are used around outdoor eating and seating areas. Citronella grass is one of the best mosquito repellent plants and it can be planted and used in a similar way as citronella candles, to keep flying insects away.

Belonging to the geranium plant family, the fragrance produced by the citronella foliage is known as one of the most effective natural mosquito repellents, which is why it is often found in DEET free natural mosquito repellents. While some proponents claim that by simply growing the plant repels mosquitoes, the actual results are mixed. The bug repelling fragrance produced by its leaves seems to primarily work when the leaves are crushed. Unlike other plants that repel mosquitoes in this list, to maximize your results, you have to do a little extra work.

Once the plant has matured, remove several of its leaves. Using your hands, rub the leaves together to crush them and release its essential oils. Rub these oils over your body. For added relief from these bothersome pests, sprinkle crushed citronella leaves around your outdoor seating area.

To further maximize the insect repelling results, plant citronella grass in your garden & yard and use in conjunction with feverfew and lavender.

Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of citronella grass is its ease. Unlike other bug repellent plants, citronella is quite hearty and capable of being grown in a wide variety of climates. Because of its versatility it can be grown indoors and outdoors. While the plant thrives outdoors during warmer months, make sure to transplant it to indoor locations before the first frost.

Citronella prefers a minimum of six hours of sunlight per day – this is regardless of its indoor or outdoor location. While full-sun is preferred, they can tolerate partial shade. Citronella may thrive in a variety of soils, as long as it’s well-drained. To maximize the production of mosquito-repelling oils, occasionally fertilize with all-purpose plant food.

On average, a citronella plant can grow anywhere from 2 to 4 feet high. To encourage new growth, pruning and pinching is highly recommended.

Additionally, citronella grass has also been found to have a calming effect on barking dogs, which is worth considering if you have a dog which barks excessively day and night. Your neighbours might thank you for at least giving it a try!

Beautiful! I’d still grow lavender even if it didn’t repel mosquitoes

Lavender

Belonging to the mint family, lavender is a fragrant herb native to the Mediterranean region. Producing beautiful blue-violet flowers, the oils it creates have a long history being used as a medicinal tincture.

Due to its calming scent, lavender oil is most commonly used as a tension-relief and anti-anxiety remedy. Although its uses in the human body are varied, one of its most potent uses is also one of the most under-rated.

Lavender is a powerful mosquito and general insect repellent. The oils secreted by this plant effectively ward off these pests through completely natural means. There are several ways you can use lavender to naturally repel mosquitoes. The most effective of these methods is by extracting its oils. To utilize this method, simply grind its flowers and apply to the areas of your skin where mosquitoes like to bite, such as your ankles and arms.

Of course, lavender naturally repels mosquitoes by simply growing. Plant lavender around outdoor seating areas, pathways and near doorways and windows. The scent produced by the plant wards off mosquitoes and other bugs. Lavender can be successfully grown indoors and outdoors. Along with its powerful anti-mosquito properties, it’s also a beautiful addition to any home or garden.

Cut and or dried lavender can also be placed on windowsills to stop mosquitoes entering the house. Additionally, dried lavender flowers can also be used in wardrobes to repel moths and keep clothes smelling fresh. All in all lavender is one of the most versatile plants that repel mosquitoes, that you can grow.

Pyrethrum Chrysanthemum repels aphids, leafhoppers, mites and other bugs that attack plants

Pyrethrum also known as Chrysanthemum

Whilst not specifically a mosquito repellent plant, pyrethrum helps to repel a whole host of other insects and bugs, including: aphids, leafhoppers, spider mites, harlequin bugs and ticks.

Pyrethrum is best used as a ‘companion plant’ to protect other plants with its insect repellent properties. It is planted close to plants which are affected by the insects above.

Additionally a natural pesticide can be made with pyrethrum flowers. The flowers need to be dried and crushed and mixed with water. It is beyond the scope of this article to give specific instructions on potency etc., so please carry out further research before trying this, as even though the pesticide is completely natural, it can still be harmful to humans in certain situations.

The oils produced by the Chrysanthemum plant is one of the most powerful natural bug repellents. In fact, the majority of all-natural repellents call upon its essential oil as its primary active ingredient. Not only does its oil repel mosquitoes, but if they come in contact with it the oils, it actually kills the insect. This is an excellent benefit for those dealing with massive mosquito infestations.

As with many of these plants, Chrysanthemums are relatively easy bug repellent plants to care for, as long as you follow several tips. This plant is particularly susceptible to mildew. Therefore, it’s imperative to keep them as dry as possible. They require ample air circulation, water draining and full morning sun to efficiently dry any dew that’s been deposited on its stems and leaves. Never plant in low-lying or boxed-in areas that feature little air circulation.

As for the soil, these plants require fertile, sandy or loamy soil. To ensure maximum health, make sure the soil maintains a pH level around 6.5. These plants are relatively tough and are able to thrive without much external fertilization. In order to keep these plants as healthy as possible, make sure they’re exposed to light. During the growing season, feed with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.

Marigolds – the jack of all trades

Marigolds

Marigolds are beautify, strongly aromatic herbaceous flowers commonly found throughout the world. While many choose to cultivate these flowers based upon their season-long blooms and delicious scent, these flowers are also effective mosquito repellents.

As with pyrethrum, marigolds are best used as a ‘companion plant’ to help protect other plants; however, marigolds do also have some natural mosquito repellent properties, so it’s a bit of an all-rounder.

Marigolds contain a chemical compound called thiopenes in the roots. This plant repels aphids, cabbage maggots, white flies and many other pests. Marigolds are particularly good at protecting tomato plants.

Along with its potent anti-mosquito properties, marigolds are relatively easy to grow. Although easy to care for, there are several tips you should follow to ensure maximum growth. The first rule of thumb to remember is marigolds require lots of direct sunlight. Although they can flourish is almost any type of soil, these flowers tend to do best in well-drained, moderately fertile soil. As spring warms the soil, sow them directly into the garden. If you’re growing from seeds, starts the seeds indoors around 4 to 6 weeks before the last spring frost. When seedlings grow to around 2-inches tall, separate them and plant in flats of loose soil. You may also transplant them into a garden.

Once planted, marigolds require very little upkeep. Never water marigolds from overhead. Rather, water at the base of the flowers. Don’t worry about fertilizing these plants. Due to its sensitive nature, excess fertilization causes the foliage to rapidly develop, which reduces flower production. Unlike other plants, marigolds flower best in poor soil. Try to plant these flowers in full-sun as they can mildew quickly if the flowers remain damp from morning dew or rainstorms.

Everyone should grow peppermint, for cooking if nothing else

Peppermint

Peppermint is one of the most beloved plants due to its strong, poignant scent. A common ingredient in a vast array of products, the peppermint plant does far more than simply add a delicious flavor to treats or toothpaste.

The majority of bugs despise the scent and taste of peppermint. Its strong essential oils waft effortlessly through the air to naturally repel mosquitoes and other common insects. Planting peppermint along outdoor seating areas, around windows or near doorways is an effective way to naturally repel mosquitos and other bugs.

Another added benefit? Should you be bitten by a mosquito, rubbing its leaves directly into the the bite offers near-instant itch relief. Double benefit! It’s a plant that repels mosquitoes and it provides mosquito bite relief.

An excellent benefit of growing peppermint is its ease. As with any other plant belonging to the mint family, peppermint is fast growing and requires minimal care. When growing peppermint outdoors, plant about 2-feet apart in moist soil. This plant spreads quite rapidly and requires a decent amount of room to flourish. At its peak, peppermint grows around 1 to 2-feet tall.

In your garden, plant peppermint near tomatoes and cabbage to thwart pesky insects. While these plants tend to do best directly in a garden, they also do quite well in pots. Fill a container with compost-enriched potting mix and place close to outdoor seating areas. The only requirement is these plants require full sunlight to truly flourish.

Unlike other plants in this list, peppermint does best in moist soil. When planting outside, use a light mulch to help keep the soil moist. Water the leaves regularly to keep them clean and to maintain high oil production. When growing peppermint indoors, make sure to water them regularly. Focus on maintaining even soil moistness.

To enhance the mosquito-repelling effectiveness of peppermint, pick several mature leaves from the plant. Mince the leaves into tiny pieces and scatter across your entire outdoor sitting area. Many perform this action immediately before holding an outdoor party or enjoying a nice glass of wine and a book. While the plant itself will help repel mosquitoes, by mincing the leaves and spreading them, the oils are released in greater concentrations. Consider rubbing a little of the minced leaves across areas of your skin where mosquitoes like to bite. However, be careful when doing this. If you have sensitive skin, the oils can cause a rash or irritation. Test on a small portion of your skin and wait 20 minutes. If no reaction occurs, apply to a larger area.

Mosquitoes | An Overview of Blood-Thirsty Pests

Did you know there are over 3,000 different mosquito species throughout the world? While each mosquito has a unique scientific name, their presence to humans and animals is relatively similar. As with most insects, mosquitoes lay eggs to reproduce. These eggs are often found in still, calm waters and float on “rafts.” One of the greatest preventative measures is to eliminate water accumulation in your yard.

There are four stages a mosquito goes through: egg, larva, pupa and adult. During the egg, larvae and pupae stage, the mosquitoes live in water. However, as they molt into the adult stage, they fly away from water sources and become airborne. As summer temperatures rise to 80-degrees Fahrenheit, the larva goes through a rapid transformation. On average, it takes four days for larva to reach the pupae stage. From here, it takes an additional three days before the pupa transforms into an adult mosquito. The lifespan of a single mosquito is relatively short. Female mosquitoes may live for several weeks if they have a constant source of sugar while male mosquitoes typically live for less than a week.

The primary difference between adult male and female mosquitoes is its size. Generally, female mosquitoes are larger than males and have a threadlike antennae. Male mosquitoes feature a more bushy antennae.

Unlike popular belief, mosquitoes find nourishment on more than just blood. Both male and female adult mosquitoes feed on nectar. However, when it comes time to lay eggs, female mosquitoes seek out warm-blooded hosts to feed on their blood. Male mosquitoes don’t feed on blood.

The Importance of Mosquitoes in the Ecosystem

It’s difficult to imagine these annoying pests have any purpose outside of ruining your outdoor enjoyment, but they have several important purposes in your local ecosystem. Mosquito larvae serves as a viable food source for fish and other aquatic animals. As the mosquitoes grow older, they become an important food source for bats, birds, spiders, dragonflies and other arthropods. Without these insects, entire animal groups would lack in nourishment.

The Negative Impact of Mosquitoes

Of course, with a positive benefit comes a negative. Perhaps the most noteworthy downside of mosquitoes is their ability to transmit dangerous pathogens to humans and other warm-blooded animals. Mosquitoes can transmit diseases, such as encephalitis, dengue fever and yellow fever. It’s important to note these insects can only be carriers of disease, they cannot spontaneously cause disease. For example, a mosquito must feed on an infected host in order to transmit a pathogen.

(Photos from: Wikimedia Commons)

UTI Home Remedies To Calm Pain & Burning Urination

June 22, 2015

Multiple white blood cells in urine indicate UTI

There are few situations that can be as uncomfortable as a urinary tract infection, or more commonly referred to as a UTI. In the most fundamental sense, a UTI is an infection that afflicts the bladder, urethra, kidneys or ureters, causing pain, discomfort and a need to urinate, plus a burning sensation when urinating. Because any part of this essential elimination system can become infected, it’s important to utilize treatments capable of delving throughout each of these bodily parts. Since over 7 million people visit a physician for UTIs every year, it’s among the most common infections throughout the country.

If you’re searching for relief from a UTI, then you should immediately begin treatment. Although UTI home remedies can be an effective way to banish this painful infection, because of the risk associated with such an infection, it’s important to visit your physician should your symptoms worsen after self-treatment.

9 UTI Home Remedies To Ease Pain And Discomfort

The following UTI home remedies were chosen due to its effectiveness at relieving the severity of symptoms (pain, discomfort and burning urination) and banishing the infection at the deepest parts. While these UTI home remedies are considered safe and effective, should your UTI symptoms worsen within one week of starting treatment, immediately visit your physician as you could be dealing with a potentially serious infection.

UTI Remedy #1 | Water

While this may seem too simple, drinking ample water is the most effective way to flush this vital bodily system to help calm symptoms and promote swift healing. As a general rule of thumb, drink half your bodyweight in ounces of water. For example, if you weigh 160 pounds, drink at least 80 ounces of purified water per day. While the act of urinating may be painful, avoiding ample hydration is the biggest mistake you can make when it comes to restoring your urinary tract health.

Baking soda helps ease the burning sensation when urinating

UTI Remedy #2 | Baking Soda

One of the most uncomfortable symptoms of a UTI is the near-constant urge to urinate due to a burning sensation. An effective UTI home remedy involves drinking baking soda water to actually neutralize the acidity within urine. Although baking soda does not actively eliminate the bacterial infection responsible for a UTI, it can reduce pain and burning sensations.

To utilize this UTI home remedy, simply pour 1 teaspoon of baking soda into 8 ounces of filtered water. Stir until the baking soda completely dissolves and drink first thing in the morning for at least one week.

UTI Remedy #3 | Ginger Tea

One of the major causes of UTI pain is due to inflammation caused by an active infection. One of the most potent UTI home remedies is ginger tea as it features unique anti-inflammatory properties. Its unique active compounds hinder a biological process known as prostaglandin synthesis. By blocking this process, the chemical messengers responsible for triggering inflammation and pain signals, inflammation is reduced and pain is numbed. In fact, this natural process is the same many synthetic medications try to accomplish.

To utilize this remedy, simply brew 1 cup of fresh ginger tea and consume up to three times per day until your UTI has subsided.

UTI Remedy #4 | Blueberries

The active compounds found in blueberries thwart UTI infections by disturbing the health of the bacteria that causes urinary tract infections. By affecting bacterial fimbria, its life-cycle is shortened, which results in faster healing.

To utilize this home remedy, simply consume 1 to 2 cups of blueberries per day.

Apple cider vinegar can aid swift healing of UTI

UTI Remedy #5 | Apple Cider Vinegar

The constituents found within apple cider vinegar make it one of the most effective UTI home remedies. Filled with a variety of enzymes, minerals and potassium, apple cider vinegar interacts with the bacteria responsible for the onset of a UTI. By inhibiting this bacteria from growing (or multiplying), you can experience swift healing and relief from painful symptoms.

This UTI home remedy is quite simple to utilize. Simply add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to 8 ounces of water. Add 1 tablespoon of raw honey, for taste, and drink two times per day for one week.

UTI Remedy #6 | Indian Gooseberry

One of the most effective ways to naturally banish a UTI is to increase your consumption of vitamin C. Indian Gooseberry, also known as Amla, inhibits the growth of UTI-causing bacteria due to its high vitamin C concentration.

To utilize this home remedy, add 1 teaspoon of Indian Gooseberry Powder to 1 cup of water. Place over high heat and bring the solution to a boil. Allow this mixture to boil until the water evaporates. Scrape the residue out of the pot and consume up to three times per day for a maximum of five days. By evaporating the liquid, you create a residue rich in vitamin C for potent healing capabilities.

UTI Remedy #7 | Tea Tree Oil Bath

The powerful antibacterial properties found within tea tree oil make it one of the most effective UTI home remedies. Unlike many other of the remedies listed, this method works through a topical treatment.

To utilize this remedy, run a warm bath and place 10 drops of pure tea tree oil into the water. Lower yourself in the water and wash your urethra opening with this water. Soak in the tub for 20 minutes. Repeat once a day until the infection has stopped.

Pineapple contains the enzyme ‘bromelain’ that has powerful anti-inflammatory properties

UTI Remedy #8 | Pineapple

Considered one of the most beneficial UTI home remedies, the active compounds in pineapple are known to help reduce pain and symptoms of a urinary tract infection. The bulk of this fruit’s medicinal benefits is derived from an enzyme known as Bromelain. This enzyme features powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which actively works to reduce UTI symptoms. When combined with antibacterial herbs or medicines, pineapple helps to bring near-instant relief.

To utilize this remedy, consume 1 cup of freshly cut pineapple per day. Do not consume canned pineapple as it typically consists of excess sugar and preservatives.

UTI Remedy #9 | Uva Ursi

Uva Ursi consists of a variety of active compounds known to hold powerful antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Research has found this herb to be among the most effective natural UTI home remedies.

To utilize this remedy, consume a fresh Uva Ursi supplement. Make sure the supplement contains 100% Uva Ursi for maximum effectiveness. Continue to supplement with this herb until the UTI has been cleared.

As stated above – these UTI home remedies can be very effective when used early, and for minor UTIs. However if your symptoms continue or get worse, please visit your doctor right away for treatment and diagnosis.

(White blood cells in urine image from: Wikipedia, ACV image from Mike Mozart)

Flea Home Remedies & A Flea Trap That Really Work! (Updated!)

June 19, 2015

Whilst fleas are a major concern for most pet owners, some people may consider fleas to be nothing more than a minor ailment for your pet; however if left unchecked fleas can wreak havoc on pets and humans alike.

Fleas are problematic as they survive on blood. In fact, a female flea can consume up to 15 times per body weight in blood every day. Fleas are not only a nuisance, but they can also cause serious health complications, such as tapeworms, anemia and flea allergy dermatitis, known as FAD. Although they are wingless, these pests can easily jump from pet-to-pet or from pet-to-human, and from room to room around your home.

If you’re looking for ways to get rid of fleas without having to use synthetic chemical treatments, then read on, as the flea home remedies and the homemade flea trap below will soon have your pets and household flea free.

Get Rid Of Fleas With These Home Remedies

The following home remedies for fleas were chosen for their effectiveness and safety. The majority of flea infestations can be controlled and eliminated via these natural methods. To be honest, you don’t really need to look any further than remedy #1 (DE powder) and remedy #2 (flea trap), but the other home remedies are included here, as they are popular and reported to be effective.

NEW POST: Get rid of fleas from your yard/garden with this garlic flea spray for your yard.

Remedy #1 |Get Rid of Fleas with Diatomaceous Earth Powder

Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is actually comprised of ancient algae fossils. Upon contact, the microscopic fossils actually penetrate through the fleas outer shell, and are then soaked into their bodies. Due to the dehydrating effect of DE, fleas are dried out and ultimately destroyed. This remedy is so powerful, DE is often the primary ingredient in all-natural pest cleaners.

Important note: only purchase and use ‘food grade’ diatomaceous earth powder. Other forms of DE, for example, pool DE, can have added harmful chemicals. ‘Food grade’ DE should be clearly labeled as such ‘food grade’.

To utilize this remedy, thoroughly vacuum every room in your home. After cleaned, sprinkle an even layer of DE throughout every room of your home. Focus on areas where humans and pets congregate as this is typically where fleas rest. After the DE powder has rested for 48 hours, vacuum clean. Repeat as many times as necessary to eliminate an entire flea colony. DE really is one of the most effective natural home remedies for fleas, but an added bonus around the home is it also kills ants, spider and cockroaches too!

If anyone in your household suffers with chronic allergies, or skin conditions, it is might best to treat/test one room first (before doing the whole house!), and check for any reactions. DE is considered safe for household use, but you can never be too careful if anyone in your household suffers with a chronic condition.

Using Diatomaceous Earth Powder Directly On Pets?

Food grade diatomaceous earth powder has been used on livestock, all over the world, for decades. It is widely considered safe to use on pets as well. The main caution with using DE on pets is that inhalation of DE should be avoided by humans and pets, as it can cause respiratory irritation, so be mindful of this when using DE powder.

If you are worried about skin irritation, and want to be doubly careful with your pet, try treating a small area of your dog/cat with DE powder for a few days, to see if there is any skin reaction. If all is well, you can proceed to applying the DE powder head-to-foot, being careful around the head area, so that the DE is inhaled. You may need to repeat every few days for heavy flea infestation.

Personally, given DE’s effectiveness at killing fleas, I really cannot see the point in purchasing harmful pesticides and spraying them all over your home. Diatomaceous earth is a safer, natural alternative, that is equally lethal to fleas.

Remedy #2| Homemade Flea Trap

Perhaps one of the most effective home remedies for fleas is to catch these pests before they have time to influence their bite on pets and humans. Although there are many commercial flea traps available on the market, they can be quite expensive. This home remedy for fleas calls upon everyday items to effectively catch and trap fleas throughout your home.

How to make a homemade flea trap

Place a baking tray or plate filled with warm water in the middle of the room.
Add 1 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid to the water and agitate to make the water soapy.
Place 1 tea candle in a jar, in the center of the baking tray/plate and leave overnight. Throughout the night, fleas are attracted to the heat and light coming from the candle. When they jump toward it, they become stuck in the dishwashing liquid water and die. Repeat for three to four consecutive nights, or until you do not wake up to flea bodies in the water.

Homemade flea trap caution – don’t allow pets to access the area the flea trap is located in. They may drink the soapy water, or burn themselves on the candle. If you don’t want to use a candle, you can also try standing an adjustable lamp on the floor, with the light shining into the center of the baking trap/plate. Pets should still be excluded from the area due to the danger of the proximity of the lamp to the water in the flea trap.

Below is a photo of one of our DIY flea traps. To be honest, this old baking tray has much higher sides that our other two traps. I’d have assumed that lower sides would be better, as it’s easier for the fleas to see the light, but this trap works just fine Quick and simple to make, and mighty effective!

Remedy #3 | Homemade Herbal Flea Spray

If you wish to kill fleas throughout your home while leaving a pleasant scent in its wake, then yous should use this herbal flea spray. Each of the ingredients is known to hold powerful anti-flea properties, capable of destroying fleas along the same lines as a chemical treatment without the harmful compounds. To utilize this remedy for fleas, combine the following ingredients into a large container:

1 gallon of white vinegar
1/2 gallon of purified water
16 ounces of freshly squeezed lemon juice
8 ounces of witch hazel essential oil

Once you’ve combined all of these ingredients, pour the solution into a standard handheld spray bottle. After vacuuming the room, spray a liberal amount of this solution throughout your room. Pay attention to corners where carpeting and walls meet. Repeat every day until the fleas have been eliminated. Enhance the effectiveness of this spray by steam cleaning your carpeting and cloth-covered furniture. The steam actively works to kill flea larvae, which can be protected against the spray.

Remedy #4 | Salt Powder – Old Flea Home Remedy

Many ‘all-natural anti-flea powders’ utilize sodium as a means of eliminating these annoying pests. In the most fundamental sense, salt works to kill off fleas by penetrating its shells and dehydrating the fleas from the inside-out. This is an effective, chemical-free, home remedy for fleas that is surprisingly easy and effective. To utilize this remedy, simply purchase finely ground sea salt. In order to work, the salt must be ground to a fine powder. If your salt crystals are too large, grind until it’s a fine powder. The amount of salt you’ll need depends on the size of your room. Once the salt is finely ground, sprinkle throughout every room in your home. Make sure there is an even layer on the carpet. Allow the salt to rest for 48 hours before vacuuming. Repeat until your flea infestation has been eradicated.

Remedy #5 | Homemade Herbal Flea Powder

As you can see, the most effective home remedies for fleas call upon dry powders to penetrate flea shells for full eradication. If you wish to use the power of a flea powder, but without the use of irritating compounds, then you’ll want to utilize this herbal flea powder recipe. Begin by placing all the following ingredients into a coffee grinder:

1/2 cup of dried rosemary
1/2 cup of dried rue
1/2 cup of dried wormwood
1/2 cup of dried fennel
1/2 cup of dried peppermint leaves

Once all these ingredients are in the coffee grinder, grind them together until a fine powder forms. Remove from the coffee grinder and place in a resealable container. Sprinkle the powder throughout your home. Focus on areas where fleas are often found, but also sprinkle in less-active areas. This is an excellent powder to sprinkle around openings of your home, which makes it act as a flea repellent.

Allow the herbal flea powder to rest for 48 hours before vacuuming and repeating. Consider using this home remedy for fleas as an everyday preventative treatment; especially during the warmer months when fleas are most active.

8 Post Nasal Drip Remedies For Immediate & Lasting Relief

June 19, 2015

Did you know the glands in your throat and nose are capable of producing up to two quarts of mucus per day? Although the notion of so much mucus may not seem appealing, this substance plays a vital role in your continued health. Mucus features a host of responsibilities, which include trapping inhaled matter, clearing debris from your airways and even fighting off infections. Typically, you swallow mucus without much thought; however, there are times when its presence becomes noticeable and you can feel it dripping down the back of your throat. When this occurs, it’s referred to as post nasal drip. There are many reasons why this sensation takes hold, ranging from thicker-than-normal secretions due to an illness or by swallowing disorders.

The most common cause of post nasal drip include allergies, sinusitis, rhinitis, the common cold and even sudden shifts in air temperature. Regardless of why you’re experiencing this uncomfortable sensation, the need for immediate relief is universal. Post nasal drip remedies are designed to naturally reduce the severity of this condition.

Post Nasal Drip Remedies for Immediate Relief

The following post nasal drip remedies were designed to reduce the presence of mucus and help the body naturally regain its intended balance. Although these remedies are considered quite effective, you must actively work to inhibit the onset of symptoms by avoiding air irritants, such as cigarette smoke or spending excess time outside during the peak of allergy season.

Remedy #1 | Salt Water Gargle

Gargling with salt water is perhaps one of the most effective post nasal drip remedies as it works to reduce inflammation and “dry up” excess mucus. To utilize this simple and powerful remedy, simply add 1/2 teaspoon of salt to 1 cup of water. Pour a small amount in your mouth and gargle for 1 to 2 minutes up to five times per day.

Remedy #2 | Drink Ample Water

When it comes to post nasal drip remedies, sometimes the most effective cures are also the easiest. Making sure you drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day can provide significant relief from post nasal drip symptoms as this level of water intake ensures the nasal passages are properly hydrated. Hydration is imperative as dehydrated nasal passageways attempt to compensate for the lack of hydration with excess mucus production.

Remedy #3 | Ginger and Thyme Tea

When it comes to home remedies for post nasal drip, none are as effective at instantly relieving these symptoms as ginger and thyme tea. Both of these herbal ingredients feature active compounds capable of releasing excess mucus while providing ample inflammation relief. When consumed regularly, post nasal drip can be completely eliminated. This is an excellent home remedy for those who are surrounded by air irritants, such as cigarette smoke. To utilize this remedy, simply bring 1 cup of water to a rolling boil and add 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground ginger and 1/2 teaspoon of fresh thyme. Cover and allow the tea to steep for 10 minutes. Strain and drink up to two servings per day.

Remedy #4 | Peppermint Oil Vapor

Sometimes the most effective post nasal drip home remedy simply involves breathing in. Peppermint oil is an excellent example of such a remedy. The volatile oils found within this ingredient work to break up excess mucus while simultaneously calming inflammation and irritation that often results in post nasal drip. To utilize this PND remedy, bring 1 cup of water to a rolling boil. Once hot, pour into a heat-safe bowl and add 5 to 10 drops of peppermint essential oil. Bring the bowl under your nostrils and breathe deeply for several minutes.

Remedy #5 | Apple Cider Vinegar

The acetic acid found within apple cider vinegar makes this one of the most effective PND remedies. By consuming up to two times per day, you can experience significant reduction in post nasal drip symptoms. Simply add 1 tablespoon of unprocessed apple cider vinegar to 8 ounces of water. If the flavor is too strong, add 1 tablespoon of raw honey. Drink up to two times per day to help control and inhibit post nasal drip symptoms.

Apple cider vinegar is also an effective home remedy for UTIs.

Remedy #6 | Eucalyptus Oil Vapor Treatment

The healing properties in eucalyptus oil make it an excellent post nasal drip remedy. When its vapors are inhaled, its active properties act as an anti-inflammatory and expectorant, which means it helps break up excess mucus for post nasal drip relief. To utilize this remedy, simply bring 2 cups of water to a rolling boil and pour in a heat-safe bowl. Add 5 drops of eucalyptus oil. Lean over the steam and drape a towel over your head. Breathe normally for three to five minutes. Make sure to keep your eyes closed as its vapor can cause your eyes to sting. This is an effective post nasal drip remedy in the morning or before bed.

Pollen – a common cause of post nasal drip symptoms

Remedy #7 | Use a Humidifier To Prevent PND

For many, post nasal drip intensifies during drier months. As you inhale dry air, your body attempts to increase the moisture within your throat by increasing mucus production. This post nasal drip remedy increases air moisture to naturally trigger a reduction in mucus production. Simply place a humidifier in your room and breathe normally. You’ll soon notice your post nasal drip symptoms begin to ease.

Remedy #8 | Saline Nasal Irrigation

Nasal irrigation is among the top post nasal drip remedies for instant relief. Not only does the saline content help reduce inflammation, but its use thins mucus and helps wash away irritants or infections that may be causing your symptoms. To utilize this remedy, add 1/4 teaspoon of finely ground non-iodized salt into 8 ounces of warm, sterile water. Add this solution to a Neti Pot. Lean forward and turn your head to the right side over a sink. Make sure to keep your forehead along the same horizon as your chin. Gently insert the Neti Pot spout into the left nostril and raise the Neti Pot to slowly inject the solution into the left nostril. Breathe through your mouth and allow the solution to flow out of the right nostril. Repeat on the other nostril.