Non-Toxic Bug Repellents
by Jane Sheppard
If you find that bugs or insects are feeding on your children,
be careful that the toxic “solution” does not put your children
at greater health risk than the problem. Many of the bug or insect
repellent sprays, lotions or liquids that are used on children to
repel ticks, mosquitos or other insects contain Permethrin and/or
N,Ndiethyl-m-toluamide, commonly called DEET.
DEET is a toxic compound, partially absorbed into the bloodstream,
and associated with dermal and neurological reactions. Several cases
of toxic encephalopathy (brain damage) associated with the use of
DEET in children have been reported in the medical literature. Generalized
seizures have also been temporally associated with the use of DEET.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) made a Re-registration
Eligibility Decision (RED) for DEET in late 1998, but with this
decision, the EPA will not re-register DEET products marketed specifically
at children, claiming them to be misleading. Due to their alcohol
base, these low percentage DEET formulas may actually increase absorption
into the bloodstream, especially when reapplied frequently to increase
effectiveness. The EPA expressed concern about the fact that DEET
is widely used, is one of the few registered pesticides applied
directly to human skin and is potentially related to seizure incidents.
As a result, the RED calls for stronger label warnings and restrictions
that are protective of children and others who are sensitive to
chemical substances.
Permethrin is a synthetic contact insecticide, causing nervous
system toxicity that leads to the death of the insect. It is said
to have low toxicity in mammals, and is poorly absorbed through
the skin. However, it’s wise to stay away from any synthetic pesticide,
especially when there are safe alternatives to do the job.
Alternative Repellents
Plants whose essential oils have been reported to have repellent
activity include citronella, cedar, verbena, geranium, lavender,
pine, cajeput, cinnamon, rosemary, basil, thyme, allspice, garlic,
and peppermint. Calendula ointment is also an excellent insect repellent.
Unfortunately, plant-derived repellents have been relatively poorly
studied. When tested, most of these essential oils tended to give
short-lasting protection, usually less than 2 hours. But reapplying
the essential oils is a small price to pay for keeping a child protected
from insects while free from potentially harmful insecticides.
Neem oil is a highly effective, non-toxic, child-safe bug repellent
that can also be used on open sores and wounds. Neem heals wounds,
cuts, sores, poison oak or ivy, and has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal,
and anti-viral properties. The National Research Council found that
Neem is known to affect more than 200 species of insects. One compound
(salannin) found in neem leaves, seeds and seed oil is a safer but
more effective insect repellent than DEET. Neem provides protection
from not only mosquitoes but also from biting flies, sand fleas
and ticks.
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Use the information provided on this site as an educational resource for determining your options and making your own informed choices. It is not intended as medical advice or to diagnose, prescribe, or treat any specific illness.