Summertime is a time of so many great things - trips to the beach, more time spent outdoors, barbeques, picnics, swimming, gardening... and the list goes on.

But as with anything good, there's some bad that comes along with it, namely mosquitoes! If you're like me, mosquitoes buzzing in your ears, making a meal of you, is probably one thing you hate about summer.

But before you go and grab a bottle of Off! bug repellent... consider whether this is the healthiest option for you and your family, and explore some all natural alternatives.

The Dangers of Bug Repellents

First off, anything that is made to kill, is not something I want soaking into my pores. I'd about prefer to get bitten by mosquitoes! Secondly, the smell is just awful.

Here are a few reasons not to use bug repellent like Off!:

- They contain DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide, diethyltoluamide), a solvent you find, rubber, pastic, and paint removers.

- DEET is strong enough to break down some synthetic fibers and plastics.
Studies have revealed that when you apply a bug repellent with DEET, 17% ends up in your bloodstream.

- Studies have also revealed DEET impairs muscle coordination, and when used with permethrin, an anti-mosquito insecticide, there is a negative impact on memory function and learning capabilities.

Natural Ways to Repel Mosquitoes WITHOUT Bug Repellent

Citronella

I'm sure you've heard of Citronella candles for keeping away mosquitoes but you can also plant citronella in pots or in your yard wherever you need mosquito protection.

Marigolds

I just love the bright orange and yellow blossoms of the marigold. But did you know, marigold repels not only mosquitoes but bugs in general? Plant marigolds in outdoor seating areas or places where you and your family frequent in the yard.

Lavender

Lavender not only smells wonderful but it wards off mosquitoes. The next time you buy body lotion, consider opting for one that contains lavender. Just rub some on before sitting outside where the mosquitoes lurk in wait. Alternately, you can make a lavender diffuser. Simply put some lavendar essential oil in a small apothecary jar and place a few bamboo diffuser sticks inside.

Rosemary

Another one of my favorite scents, rosemary, will send the mosquitoes packing! If you have an outdoor fire pit or you are having a bonfire, add some fresh rosemary to it. You can also try diluting some rosemary essential oil and placing it on on your wrists and behind your knees, like you would perfume. You'll smell great and prevent those itchy red bumps at the same time.

Lemon Balm

A variety of mint, lemon balm, planted strategically in your outdoor living spaces, can make a big difference in the number of mosquitoes hovering around you this summer. And as an added bonus, it's edible =) Just snip off a few sprigs for a salad or garnish.

Catnip

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Catnip has gained quite the reputation with cats but it's a shame more people don't associate it with its anti-mosquito properties. In fact, catnip is a major deterrent of mosquitoes, found to be 10 times more effective than DEET.

Neem Oil

Another natural way to repel mosquitoes and other pesky bugs is neem oil. Thankfully, it is such a popular product, you can even buy it at Walmart.

Apple Cider Vinegar

In a pinch, this all natural mosquito repellent works like a charm. Just grab the apple cider vinegar from your pantry and place in a spritz bottle. Dilute with water so it does not irritate your skin, and spritz your legs and arms with the solution before going outside.

Basil

I've talked about my love of basil in other posts, and it's no secret - I love basil!

Check out my posts on basil here: Inspiration for Starting a Basil Garden and Basil Growing Tips, My Fresh Basil Pesto Recipe, Inspiration for Starting a Basil Garden and Basil Growing Tips ~ Part 2, & Inspiration for Starting a Basil Garden ~ Cool Ways to Eat and Use Basil ~ Part 3

Besides the smell and taste of basil, another reason I love it is because it keeps mosquitoes away.

Who knew... this wonderful fragrance basil gives off that we love, the mosquitoes HATE. Keep in mind, too, there are so many varieties of basil to choose from that you can plant, from classic greens to eye-catching purple opals.

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And that's all the tips I have for having a mosquito-free summer, friends... hope you find them helpful in replacing toxic products like Off!

As always, thanks for your support, comments, and upvotes Steemians!

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The info sources used for this article are as follows: Life.ca, and naturallivingideas
Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10