Immediately several letters came to the post office asking for advice the best remedy from mosquitoes for children, and after bites to relieve pain. Mosquitoes do not sleep - they spoil our vacation every summer and until late autumn!

Today I was also bitten by a midge in broad daylight - up to the numbness of the leg, which continues to this day. I removed the swelling with improvised means, but seriously thought about life hack on natural repellents.

Danger of mosquitoes and ticks

Two years ago, I wrote about replacement products with toxic DEET. They are still relevant, but this season there are many new products and data regarding the Zika virus, carried by Aedes mosquitoes.

Every year, the number of diseases that mosquitoes, ticks and other insects can transmit through bites is growing. They not only spoil our vacation, but also threaten our health!

The spread of the Zika virus and the Crimean fever once again showed the need to use insect repellents using repellents.

Candles against mosquitoes

The most popular mosquito repellents on the street, beach or summer cottage - mosquito candles with citronella. One study found that citronella bites were reduced by 42% next to a burning citronella candle.

Burning candles are generally good at repelling mosquitoes and other insects. Easily turn them into mosquito repellents by adding a few drops essential oil citronella.

⇒ Essential oil of citronella Aura Cacia, 100% Pure Essential Oil Citronella(small vial)
⇒ Organic oil Now Foods, Organic Essential Oils, Citronella Oil(big bottle)

As studies have shown, light-colored clothing and no sweat odor makes us invisible to mosquitoes, so unscented deodorant can also be considered as one of the means of protection. But flavored lotions and perfumes, on the contrary, attract mosquitoes and insects.

Natural Remedies

Research shows that natural remedies mosquito repellents made with essential oils, work just as efficiently, but for a shorter time.

Insect repellent essential oils: lemon eucalyptus, citronella, cedar, geranium, mint, lavender, pine, cajuput, cinnamon, rosemary, basil, thyme, allspice, and garlic.

Neem oil, although not considered a recognized repellent in the US, has long history repellent and can repel insects, and its oil is safe when applied to the skin in its pure form.

Patented blend of soybean oil with essential oils, which is part of Buzz Away, has shown the same effectiveness against several types of mosquitoes in tests as chemical formula with 7% DEET.

When buying a protective agent, please note that not all products are equally effective in protecting against mosquitoes and ticks. There are universal remedies like Dr.Mercola, but more often individual remedies for mosquitoes and ticks

Zika, West Nile fever, Zenge virus are most often carried by mosquitoes of the genus Aedes. And some repellents, such as Buzz Away, claim to target this particular mosquito, which typically bites during the day and lives in tropical and subtropical climates.

If you are traveling to an area where there is a high risk of getting Zika virus, the CDC recommends using repellents with one of the following ingredients: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, eucalyptus lemon essential oil or its synthesized PMD version.

Like sunscreen Mosquito and tick repellents must be reapplied to maintain their effectiveness. If the label does not indicate the frequency of application, be guided by these numbers: renew protection against mosquitoes maximum every 4 hours and every 6 hours against ticks.

Mosquito bracelets

Another novelty for protection is mosquito repellent bracelets. They recently appeared on iHerb and I liked the ease of use.

But, as shown by independent testing in Australia, where there is a high risk of getting a virus when bitten - mosquito bracelets only work for a few centimeters on both sides of the bracelet itself.

The number of mosquitoes near the bracelet is reduced, but the upper arm and other parts of the body are not protected. Mosquito repellent bracelets do not protect the entire surface of the body from bites and not an effective alternative repellents.

The best mosquito and tick repellent

⇒ Dr. Mercola Healthy Skin Bug Spra y, natural spray, safe for children and pets. Specially designed to protect against mosquitoes, fleas, ticks and other blood-sucking insects. An effective alternative to chemical repellents.

⇒ Quantum Health, Buzz Away, Insect Repellent, Citronella Spray, designed to protect against mosquitoes, midges and midges; as well as mosquitoes, which are carriers of the West Nile virus.

⇒ Quantum Health, Buzz Away Extreme, Natural Insect Repellent, spray for protection against mosquitoes, black flies and ticks. Clinical studies have shown that the product protects against mosquitoes up to 4 hours, and protection against ticks up to 2.5 hours. Can be used for children.

⇒ Badger Company, Organic Anti-Bug, Shake & Spray, spray tested for mosquito repellent, skin-friendly, suitable for children.

⇒ All Terrain, Kids Herbal Armor, Natural Insect Repellent, Deet-Free Pump Spray, baby mosquito repellent spray, tested for effectiveness, moisture and perspiration resistant, has won several awards for best natural repellant. Safe for children from 6 months, for application to the skin and tissues.

⇒ All Terrain, Herbal Armor, Natural Insect Repellent Deet-Free Pump Spray, adult mosquito repellent spray, apply every 2-3 hours for effective protection. For exposed areas of skin and tissue.

⇒ Orange Guard Home Pest Control Another interesting tool based on orange peel extract, to protect against ants and cockroaches, which is important in the country and garden plots in summer.

To sum up, the best mosquito repellent is natural protective sprays. They work just as effectively as DEET protection, but require more frequent use. If you are traveling to countries where there is a risk of getting the Zika virus, choose chemical means of protection.

If you are a mosquito tidbit but don't want to use various chemicals, these natural mosquito repellents are just for you! Read on for the most interesting...

Why are natural mosquito repellents better?

Natural mosquito repellents are considered the most harmless to the human body. Of course, modern industry offers a lot effective means to control mosquitoes and other blood-sucking insects. But spraying them in the bedroom and breathing them all night is somehow not very desirable.

This is especially unsafe for children and those who suffer from allergies.

Therefore, the best and safest protection against bloodsuckers are still proven grandparents' methods.

• One hundred grams of camphor evaporated over a burner will get rid of flies and mosquitoes even in very large rooms.
• In the old days, a decoction of wheatgrass roots, one of the most common weeds, was used to repel mosquitoes and other bloodsucking insects.
• You can use finely chopped fresh leaves and flowers of bird cherry or basil.
• Repels mosquitoes and the smell of cloves, basil, anise and eucalyptus. Any of the oils of these plants can be used for protection - just lubricate open areas skin, or drip oil into cologne (5-10 drops), as well as on the source of fire - in a fireplace, a fire, a candle or a heated frying pan. Moisten a cotton wool with the oil of these plants and put it on the windowsill.
• Tea tree oil can also be used as a repellant¹ and helps with bites.
• Plant under your windows country house elderberry or a bed of tomatoes. Bring fresh elderberry branches into rooms, they repel mosquitoes in the same way as the smell of tomato leaves.
• If you decide to sit in nature, boil a samovar on pine or spruce cones, or throw slightly dried juniper needles into the fire.
• An old folk remedy against mosquitoes is Persian, Dalmatian or Caucasian chamomile (aka feverfew). Dried inflorescences, stems and leaves of these types of chamomile, crushed into powder, affect the nerve cells of insects. It is enough to spread a few bouquets of chamomile around the apartment or house, and you will be rid of mosquitoes for a week.
• The smell of cedar oil repels not only mosquitoes, but also flies and cockroaches.
• Not a single insect will touch your face if you wash yourself with a decoction of. Preparing a decoction is simple: pour a handful of chopped roots with one and a half liters of water, bring to a boil and insist.

No squeak

Last peep

And behind him are mosquitoes in a balloon

Sleep well without mosquitoes

Which mosquito repellent can effectively protect you at home and in the country?

With the onset of summer, some of the most annoying insects- mosquitoes. They are able to spoil the most beautiful evening in the country, and even in apartments at night there is no peace from them. Not only do they squeak unpleasantly above the ear, but mosquito bites painful, their consequences are very unpleasant - severe itching, redness and swelling.

Every summer season, new products appear on sale that should help us protect ourselves from mosquitoes.

The assortment of self-defense against biting insects is very wide - these are creams and sprays for application to the skin and clothes, and anti-mosquito bracelets, and fumigators for apartments, complex ultrasonic, ultraviolet, and carbon dioxide repellers and traps that are designed to fight insects over a large area on outdoors.

Let's see how these tools and devices work? How safe are they? Which ones are really effective? And how much do modern mosquito repellents cost?

Mosquitoes are ubiquitous creatures. This arthropod insects order Diptera, living almost everywhere. Literally - wherever there is water, which they need for reproduction.

To date, there are about 3000 species of these insects, representatives of 100 species live in Russia.

The most widely distributed mosquito in Russia is the Pisk mosquito, or common mosquito (Culex pipiens), which lives wherever a person is found.

In cities, there are two main varieties of common mosquitoes that pester us on the street and in apartments. The first is forest mosquitoes. They fly to us from parks and fields. They are larger, blisters from their bites go away pretty quickly. The second ones are urban or basement, they are smaller, but the bites cause severe itching.

Forest mosquitoes "hunt" seasonally, from mid-May to August. The life span is about a month. And basement mosquitoes winter well in warm, flooded basements, straying into “balls”.

scary beast

Many people know that only female mosquitoes drink blood, and males feed on the nectar of flowers. This is not entirely true. Females, to maintain life, also feed on nectar and plant sap. But after fertilization, in order to produce and lay eggs, she needs nutrients from the blood of the victim. She gets protein from the blood construction material for egg production. Another thing is that mosquitoes have such a mechanism as autogeny: the female is able to lay the first clutch of eggs, without a single sip of blood, for example, in a tightly closed basement.

Males are exceptional vegetarians.

The life cycle of mosquitoes includes four stages of development: egg, larva, pupa, adult. One mosquito female lays every 2-3 days from 100 to 200 eggs, development from an egg to an adult, at a temperature of about + 20 + 25 degrees - 1-1.5 weeks. The cycle from egg to pupa is carried out by future mosquitoes in reservoirs - ponds, rivers, lakes, large puddles. Feel great in damp, dark, basements.

Mosquitoes love dampness and warmth. Petersburg, with its rainy weather, was not lucky in this sense. Mosquitoes do not like light and the sun. They stop attacking us at temperatures above +28-°C. Dry weather also interferes with them - they cannot stay in the air, because they lose a lot of water. They do not like "bloodsuckers" and high-altitude flights - only the wind brings them to floors above 7.

Don't breathe or sweat

Mosquitoes do not see well (at a distance of up to 1.5 meters) and do not “hear” very well, they look for their prey by the concentration of carbon dioxide exhaled by warm-blooded animals and humans, thermal radiation and the smell of lactic acid contained in sweat.

As a rule, mosquitoes do not migrate over long distances, but live in the same place, they do not fly in search of prey from place to place. Roughly speaking, if they smell, they fly to hunt, if they don’t smell, they circle in one place until they smell their prey.

But mosquitoes can overcome, with the help of the wind, distances up to 3 km if they smell their prey.

Mosquitoes do not have poison, but when they bite, a special substance remains in the wound that prevents blood from clotting - an anticoagulant, it is due to this substance that the mosquito can drink blood. But this substance, in addition to the main effect, also has a lot of side effects - it causes swelling and redness of the skin, which are accompanied by a pronounced feeling of itching and burning. Pinpoint hemorrhages can also form at the bite sites. Of course, for the most part, such bites are not life-threatening, but they cause a lot of suffering. We constantly scratch the bitten places, because of which the skin is injured and normal sleep is disturbed.

Mosquitoes are very stubborn in their hunting and are extremely selective in choosing a bite site. They try to choose the area with the thinnest skin, closer to the blood vessels. That is why at night they can itch over the ear for hours, choosing a place to bite.

It is not known what drives you crazy more - a mosquito squeak or itching at the bite site. And finally, a mosquito can swallow four times more blood than it weighs itself.

Smear and sprinkle

How many people exist, so many are trying to invent effective ways defense against mosquito attacks. Today, the buyer is faced with a difficult choice - which tool to prefer: we are offered both the usual creams and fumigators, and such novelties as wrist bracelets and pocket scare devices. There are complex, and quite expensive, devices for giving.

But in fact, all modern tools can be divided into individual, home (for use in an apartment, room) and street (work in the country, in the forest, in the park).

Personal protective equipment

Personal protective equipment against mosquitoes is applied either to the skin or clothing.

Means that are applied directly to the skin are available in the form of creams, gels, lotions, hard pencils.

Those that can be applied to clothes are usually sprays, aerosols.

All these mosquito repellents belong to the class of repellents - that is, repellers (from the Latin repello - repel, drive away).

How do they work?

The composition of repellents can include various substances of both chemical and natural origin (essential oils with pungent odors, alcohols, which insects also do not like). The chemical filling is pyrethroids, diethyl phthalate (DEET) and others.

The mechanism of action of chemical repellers is that they make a person "invisible" to mosquitoes, drowning out the pheromones of the human body, which are guided by insects. And essential oils make the surface of human skin “tasteless” smelling to mosquitoes. Some products work specifically to ensure that the mosquito does not sit on the skin, some act when the mosquito comes into contact with the applied substance.

Of the repellents, diethyl phthalate (DETA) is considered the most common, repellents based on it occupy 60% of the world market. Many manufacturers replace the well-known abbreviation DEET with the less well-known full name "diethyltoluamide". This substance itself is quite toxic, therefore, if it is the basis of a repellent, it is important to ensure that it does not get into the eyes, mouth, or damaged areas of the skin.

Pyrethroids are newer generation repellants and are safer. But there are relatively few such funds on the market, and they are more expensive.

A separate direction - repellents of mixed action. For example, designed to protect against mosquitoes and ticks. They may include alphacypermethrin - in its action, it is a nerve poison. An insect that comes into contact with the clothes it has processed is paralyzed and falls to the ground. Such products should not be applied to the skin.

In general, bug sprays are meant to be applied to clothing for one simple reason - they tend to contain more DEET than other forms of repellent.

How to choose?

The concentration of a toxic substance is an important indicator, it must be paid attention to when choosing a means of protection.

The concentration depends on the toxicity of the agent and the duration of the repellent. The higher the concentration, the more toxic the agent and the longer it works.

The drugs with an active substance content of 30-40% last the longest - up to five hours. Categorically not recommended for allergy sufferers, as well as pregnant women and children.

The shortest period of action is for those that contain 5-10% repellents (they act no more than 2 hours). But even pregnant women and small children can use them (and the label should indicate the age from which the product can be used).

Most mosquito repellents can be used on children as young as 3 years old, but there are also special means which can protect very young children. They are made on the basis of natural raw materials - essential oils (citronella, eucalyptus, anise, cedar, cloves).

All repellents should be stored at a temperature not exceeding 25 degrees. If temperature regime is not observed, then the drug will at best lose its effectiveness. Pay attention to the expiration date as well.

It is better to choose products of famous brands.

Pay attention to which insects the remedy works on. Most mosquito repellents also protect against grus - painfully biting midges. But they do not act on flies, horseflies, gadflies.

Minuses

Chemistry is chemistry. The toxic substances contained in repellents are not harmless to humans. Of course, they contain a small amount of repellents. However, they often cause allergic reactions.

It is important to follow the rules for their use: apply a thin layer on the skin, do not rub and apply such a cream on damaged skin, wounds, abrasions, scratches. After a walk in nature, the product must be washed off.

And before use, be sure to check the skin for an allergic reaction - apply the product on your wrist and see if it turns red in 10-15 minutes.

In addition, the temporary effect of such funds is also a minus. They need to be reapplied. And the saddest thing is that mosquitoes are also "improving" - there is evidence that they are gradually becoming less sensitive to repellents.

Price

From 70-100 rubles per bottle

room killer

The next group of funds are those that, unlike the previous ones, do not repel mosquitoes, but kill them. This group includes products called fumigants (from the Latin fumigo - I smoke, smoke).

This is a group of products that, when evaporating, smoking or smoldering, emit special chemical substances, destroying insects in the radius of action - mosquitoes and midges. Such substances block the respiratory system of mosquitoes. Electric insect exterminators also belong to this group - they are popularly called fumigators - the well-known Raptor, Fumitoks, Raid, etc.

How does it work?

It's simple - a device connected to electricity heats a plate soaked in insecticide. Insects die within half an hour. One plate will protect you for about 8-18 hours. Liquid fumigators work according to the same system, only instead of a plate, a bottle of liquid. It is already designed for 45 nights, and this is its advantage.

How to choose?

Fumigators are substances from the group of pyrethroids - slightly toxic compounds. Two types of insecticides are used: pralletrin (aka Etok) and esbiotrin.

Esbiotrin - a substance of the previous generation, pralletrin - the latest generation, is a synthetic analogue of the extract from Dolmatian chamomile. It is better to choose fumigants based on pralletrin, esbiothrin requires a higher concentration than pralletrin. Another argument in favor modern drug- it is it that is used in children's fumigants, as it is safer (these are commercially available).

Cons

Fumigators today are the most effective protection in an apartment or house. But buyers often forget that fumigants have rules for safe operation. One fumigator is designed for a room area of ​​​​approximately 12 square meters.

It is correct to use it like this: turn it on in a room where there are no people, wait half an hour, then ventilate it, and only then you can be in this room.

Our people turn it on literally over their heads all night.

Remember that you should not use volatile insecticides if there are children, pregnant or lactating women, people with respiratory diseases in the room. Do not use the fumigator indoors with closed windows. Try not to turn on the fumigator all night, but only for an hour or two, until the mosquitoes are completely destroyed.

Another thing is that it is difficult to sleep with the windows closed in the summer heat. And the choice is this - either breathe fumigants all night, or wake up periodically at night to turn the fumigator on and off.

Price

Fumigators with plates - 40-100 rubles. (depending on the manufacturer). There are also universal electric fumigators in which both plates and bottles can be used. Their cost is 120-250 rubles.

Outdoor fumigators

Another type of fumigators is street candles and pyrotechnic spirals. They are convenient when used in places where there is no electricity (on a picnic, on a fishing trip). They, like fumigators, act on the principle of smoldering insecticide.

Minus

Price

Depending on the species, they smolder for 8-10 hours, evaporating the insecticide. The price is 25-50 rubles for a set of spirals. Candles (they are special, large) - from 50 to 200 rubles.

personal weapon

Perhaps the most successful novelty of recent times, the ThermaCELL Mosquito Repellent mosquito control device, also works on the principle of a fumigator.

This is a personal protection device against mosquitoes and midges, designed for use in open areas (in the forest, in the country, fishing, etc.).

How does it work

According to the principle of operation, a small ThermaCELL device resembles a household fumigator familiar to everyone, with the difference that not electricity, but gas (gas micro-burner) is used to heat the plate with a deterrent. Batteries are not required.

The plates used in ThermaCELL are also different from the plates used in household fumigators. Plates for fumigators, as mentioned above, kill mosquitoes. The plates included in the ThermaCELL kit contain deterrent repellents. In particular, it is allethrin, an analogue of the natural repellent found in chrysanthemum flowers. Alletrin is 98% effective against mosquitoes, midges and midges. The substance is very unpleasant for insects with its smell, and is practically not felt by a person, and most importantly, it is harmless to people. The plate spreads a protective cloud around a person about 4.5 meters. And more importantly, allethrin is more effective even at low concentrations of this substance in the air.

How to choose?

How does it work?

The principle of operation of this lamp is simple: the ultraviolet radiation of the lamp should attract insects. Flying up to the lamp, the mosquito falls on the metal grate under electric voltage and die from electric shock. This device should also save customers from flies and moths within a radius of 30 to 100 meters, and fight moths in the apartment.

Minuses

Mosquitoes are not butterflies, they are not attracted to light. Moreover, they avoid it. Even if you try to justify the device by the fact that it emits heat that attracts mosquitoes, then they have little heat, the lamp does not smell like a person. And even if you put this lamp next to you, the mosquito will fly not to it, but to you.

But from flies, butterflies, moths, such a lamp can help.

Price

The trap lamp costs from 1000 to 8000 rubles.

Tricky trap: complete imitation

Quite another thing is carbon dioxide street mosquito traps. They do not repel mosquitoes, but lure them.

As already mentioned, mosquitoes fly into three components - heat, carbon dioxide and the smell of sweat.

The principle of operation of such traps is based on the imitation of these manifestations of human activity.

The device emits heat of 30-40 degrees, carbon dioxide (imitation of human breathing) and odor attractants (octenol, which is made from animal fats and smells like concentrated sweat to mosquitoes).

How does it work?

The device consists of two main parts - a mosquito net with a fan and a mini propane tank.

A propane tank connected to the device provides energy for the autonomous operation of the mosquito exterminator. Also, when propane is burned, a warm and humid mixture of carbon dioxide is produced, imitating human breathing, which attracts blood-sucking insects. The carbon dioxide around the plant is distributed by the fan - and then, by the wind. Near the fan, on the nose of the device, there is an octenol tablet. Its smell for a person is the smell of mushrooms, and for mosquitoes, the octenol distributed by the fan is simply an irresistible aroma of a large cluster of "delicious" people. Then everything is simple - mosquitoes fly towards the flow of CO2, and they are sucked into the net of the installation, like dust inside a vacuum cleaner. Inside the installation, in isolation from the outside world, mosquitoes dehydrate and die.

A carbon dioxide trap can get rid of blood-sucking insects (mosquitoes and midges) from 10 to 40 acres (depending on how open it is - the more buildings and trees, the smaller the radius)

The device is silent, completely harmless and safe.

Minuses

This device is very effective - it catches up to 95% of mosquitoes and midges in the area. Negative user reviews about it are often based on ignorance of the features of the device and the life cycle of mosquitoes.

Please note that

Firstly, the minimum efficiency of the trap is reached 3-4 days after the start of work. That is, if you bought it, arrived at the dacha, turned it on - and mosquitoes bite - you should not be surprised. Mosquitoes flock to the trap gradually - first the closest ones, then under the influence of the wind, more distant insects from your site are lured.

Secondly, maximum efficiency these traps are achieved after 3 weeks. That is, having caught all the adults, the trap must wait for the new generation and lure it too. After that, there is no one else to lay eggs, mosquitoes do not appear.

Thirdly, the trap must operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, throughout the mosquito season - from spring to late summer. And not only on weekends when you came to the country.

Traps of the previous generation were connected to electricity. Many models did not use luring tablets. It was both inconvenient and inefficient.

The new generation of the trap works autonomously, on propane. Installations are intended for use in the sun, in the rain, gas cylinders cannot explode. Because there is no open fire, there is a system of micro-ignitions from batteries, relatively speaking, smoldering.

Price

From 25 to 50 thousand rubles. More simple models traps, for example, powered by a network, cost about 25 thousand rubles.

Traps of the new generation, which are completely autonomous, cost from 39 to 50 thousand rubles.

The maintenance cycle of the unit is every 3 weeks. With such a frequency, you need to change the propane tank (25-27 l) and the luring tablet.

An octinol tablet costs 1.5 thousand rubles, filling a cylinder with gas costs 400 rubles. You also need a can of compressed air to blow out the soot burner every 3 weeks - another 500 rubles. In total, the service will cost about 3 thousand rubles per month. For three summer months - about 10 thousand rubles.

Maintenance and replacement is easy, it takes 3-5 minutes. There are many videos on the Internet that show in detail how to do this.

The most famous brands that produce carbon dioxide traps: Mosquito Magnet, Electrofrog(Russian manufacturer), SkeeterVac etc.

The editors would like to thank Konstantin Podlesnykh, the director of the online store site in St. Petersburg and the Leningrad region, and a mosquito specialist Roman Zhakhovsky for their help in preparing the material.

gimlet rule

Many wonder how mosquitoes get through mosquito net, crawl into the smallest cracks. The fact is that these insects can fold their paws and literally screw themselves into the smallest hole. You can increase the effectiveness of such a grid by applying an aerosol repellent to it.

Summer bracelets

Another novelty is anti-mosquito bracelets. Designed to repel mosquitoes. It works by impregnating with aromatic oils.

Do they help? Help. But not all, only branded ones. And they provide protection very locally.

It is worth buying only those bracelets that are sold in silver-colored opaque sealed packaging. Under the influence of light and air, they lose their properties.

Check expiration date. And keep it in an airtight container.

The validity of the bracelet is 200 hours.

I can cause allergies. They cost from 150 to 300 rubles.

Site processing

There is another way to fight mosquitoes - treating the summer cottage with chemical and special biological solutions.

The biological additive blocks the digestion of the larvae and prevents them from developing into mosquitoes.

This solution forms an invisible film on water, trees, grass. For people and animals - harmless. Efficiency - 70%. Another thing is that such a film will last until the first rain, then processing is needed again. The cost - depending on the area of ​​​​the site - up to 15 thousand rubles.

Note from mosquito expert Roman Zhakhovsky.

Lyubov Suslova did not mention another interesting, new, and, most importantly, effective means of controlling insects in the room, including mosquitoes. A wonderful remedy, from the English bug - beetle and salt - salt. Those. a gun that shoots edible salt at insects.

The principle of operation of the gun is simple, salt is poured into a special tank, by juggling the shutter, air is compressed in a special internal chamber and a shot is activated by pulling the trigger. Salt under air pressure flies out of the Bugasalt barrel at a distance of up to 1 meter and hits the wings of the enemy. In this case, no batteries are required, less than one gram of salt flies out, the victim is not smeared on the wallpaper and does not stain anything, and an accidental shot at a person will not cause any bodily injury. The Bug-a-salt was primarily designed to shoot house flies for fun. But what prevents you from shooting mosquitoes?

The range of modern means for protection against mosquitoes on the street is not limited to repellent ointments and protective clothing. To calmly relax in nature, go fishing, work hard in the country or sit in the evening in the gazebo without annoying insects today, special repellers, traps and other gnats help.

Blood-sucking insects are active throughout the warm season - just at the time when you want to spend as much time as possible outdoors. You can protect yourself from mosquitoes and midges at home with the help of mosquito nets and fumigators. But what if we are talking about a picnic, fishing or even just relaxing on outdoor terrace country house?

In addition to personal protective equipment (special clothing and repellent ointments), to combat mosquitoes and midges on the street, various devices to scare and destroy them.

For protection are used:

• traps-destroyers (purchased and home-made);
• ultrasonic repellers;
• repellers based on repellents;
• smoke bombs and spirals.

Each of these tools has strong and weaknesses, and suitable for different cases. When choosing, the range, ease of use, duration and strength of the effect are important. If we are talking about an electronic device, then its ability to work from offline source nutrition.

Old "grandfather" methods or modern devices?

The oldest mosquito repellent in nature is smoke from a fire. It is still used by mushroom pickers and fishermen on a halt, neglecting modern protective equipment. The acrid smoke repels mosquitoes well, especially if you throw branches of juniper, fir and others into the fire. coniferous trees. However, not only mosquitoes have to breathe this smoke, but also all the people sitting around the fire.

In the light of the above, contact automatic extermination and remote insect repellent devices look even more attractive, because with them outdoor mosquito protection eliminates the need to use ointments, sprays, fires and special clothing. But are these devices really effective, and how to choose the best among them?

The arsenal of popular folk remedies for repelling mosquitoes is not limited to campfire smoke. On summer cottages widely used homemade traps and odorous herbs (garlic, tomato tops, geranium), which are safe for health and do not require significant financial costs.

But in terms of efficiency, they are still inferior modern means based on scientific research. Chemical repellents and insecticides act quickly and reliably, while electronic traps and repellers use their own instincts against mosquitoes, which insects are not able to resist.

Ultrasonic mosquito repellers

Devices for repelling mosquitoes and midges with ultrasound are stationary and portable. Among them are those that can:

• Put on a belt (repeller keychain) or wrist (an electronic device in the form of a bracelet), the range is 0.5 -5 meters. It is used as an individual means of protection against insects in the city and beyond. The main advantage is miniaturization.

• Carry with you or put near a tent, gazebo, overnight or fishing place - medium-sized portable and stationary devices the size of a walkie-talkie, their range covers up to 20-30 square meters. m.

• bet on adjoining territory. Lightweight stationary devices of medium size, which are easy to move from place to place. The radius of action is up to 50-80 square meters. m, appointment: ultrasonic repeller mosquitoes for the street.

Devices can be charged and operated:

• from the network directly;
• from a rechargeable battery;
• standard batteries;
• solar battery.

Stationary devices, as a rule, work only from the network, so when using them, you need to consider the length of the cord and the distance of the device from the nearest outlet. Other devices are battery operated or rechargeable different ways. Combined options are, of course, preferable.

Operating principle

Mosquito repellents are based on the principle of influencing mosquitoes with the help of sound waves of a certain frequency. Some of them will emit a frightening sound - the rustling of the wings of a dragonfly, which actively hunts for mosquitoes. Others imitate the squeak of male mosquitoes, which fertilized females diligently avoid.

Only female mosquitoes bite, and they start looking for a suitable victim immediately after mating. During this period, contacts with males are undesirable and even dangerous for them, therefore, from the sound that imitates the squeak of a male, mosquitoes immediately fly apart.

Frequency control

Repellers are equipped with sound wave generators with a frequency range of 4.8-7 kHz. Some devices have a frequency adjustment function, and it is preferable to purchase such options. The fact is that in nature there are several types of mosquitoes, and a certain sound frequency is required to scare away each of them.

It happens that a repeller tuned to a certain frequency does an excellent job in one region, but turns out to be practically useless in another. By turning the adjustment lever of the adjustable repeller, you can find the wave that is most unpleasant for mosquitoes in a particular area.

Outdoor mosquito killers

The work of street devices for the destruction of insects is based on luring and killing them in various ways. Mosquito killers mimic the warmth and smell of the human body. An insect flying up dies from an electric discharge, fire, water or air flow.

This is an effective mosquito killer for the outdoors, it can only be used outdoors. Principle of operation: propane is gradually released from the gas cylinder and enters the gas burner where it releases carbon dioxide and heat. Mosquitoes looking for prey to bite react to heat radiation from the body and the smell of carbon dioxide, which is released during breathing. The propane destroyer, as it were, deceives them, distracting them.

The device is easy to maintain, however, regular replacement of the gas cylinder will be required. The effectiveness of its work is very dependent on the location - it is important to install it on the site from the side from which mosquitoes fly the most (for example, from the side of a forest or lake).

In the list of the most popular models, one of the first places is occupied by Mosquito Magnet Independence, which is able to lure mosquitoes from an area of ​​40 acres. Its cost is about 50 thousand rubles, but this price is justified by durability. An analogue of this device - Mosquito Magnet Patriot, costs about 30 thousand rubles, its radius of action is 25 acres.

CO2 tank exterminators

The principle of operation of this type of exterminators is based on the gradual release of carbon dioxide from a cylinder. Mosquitoes follow the smell, and when they get close enough, they are sucked in by the eddy current from the built-in fan. Models of such exterminators can be additionally equipped with heat lamps that enhance the alluring effect (such, for example, is the Smartkiller garden insect exterminator).

In general, carbon dioxide shredders are comparable in efficiency to propane ones, and it is also important to place them correctly on the site. They are lightweight and can run on mains or solar power.

Models differ in configuration and radius of destruction. For example, the Mosquito Trap ANS-A6 system generates preheated CO2 gas, simulating a gathering of a large group of people. Additionally, the device uses octenol as a bait.

Thermal destroyers

The thermal device attracts the attention of mosquitoes using infrared radiation. Insects take him for a person, fly up close and die in a tank of water or dry out on a special grid.

Some models of heat destroyers are additionally equipped with an attractant spray device and flashing lights. On average, thermal exterminators effectively protect against insects in areas up to 500 square meters. m, but there are much more powerful devices.

The Mega-Catch Mosquito Trap is one example of a powerful heat destroyer. Its cost is about 20 thousand rubles. The device effectively attracts mosquitoes within a radius of up to 3 thousand square meters. m. Suitable for large land plots, farms.

Ultraviolet destroyers

The most inexpensive and affordable type of exterminators. They are lightweight and compact devices with built-in ultraviolet lamp. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use. An insect flying up close to the grille of the device dies from a current discharge. An example of such a device is the SWI-20 exterminator, which cleans an area of ​​250 square meters from mosquitoes and midges. m. Reviews about the use of devices of this type are contradictory, in terms of efficiency they are inferior to all of the above.

Light traps can be made in the form of garden lights (for example, the lantern-destroyer "Sniper"). They work on the same principle - a UV lamp and a grid under voltage, but these lamps are protected from rain and are powered by a solar battery, so they are very convenient for placement in the garden.

Some models are equipped with an attractant spray device and a battery that allows you to install the device anywhere. For example, the Flowtron PowerVac PV-440 has a spray system for octenol (sweat odor imitation, which is very attractive to mosquitoes). The smell of octenol is elusive to the human sense of smell, but mosquitoes feel it perfectly.

The EcoSniper GF-4WB mosquito exterminator is also based on ultraviolet radiation, but in addition to this, it imitates the heat of the human body and the smell of the air exhaled by a person. The device is moisture resistant and equipped with a fan, the vortex flow from which quickly attracts flying insects.

Outdoor repellers for mosquitoes and midges

The principle of operation of street repellers is based on fumigation. Under the influence of heat from the raised lamps, the repellent microparticles spread over the nearby territory, forming an invisible barrier beyond which mosquitoes and midges do not fly.

For example, the popular Moskuto Trap MT64 device operates on an area of ​​500 sq. m. In fact, it is a combined device, that is, it can be used both as an exterminator and as a repeller. It works from the mains and from a car battery. A device with a shorter range - ThermaCell mr g06 00 - is in demand among lovers of fishing, hunting and hiking. It operates on an area up to 20 sq. m.

Lamps in the form of garden lights or small portable lanterns are suitable for a tent, balcony or gazebo. The action is based on plates that, under the influence of heat, evaporate repellents.

You can buy Thermacell mosquito lamp with a 10% discount in the online store.

To repel mosquitoes on the street, smoke bombs, spirals and sticks are also used. Checkers cover an area within a radius of up to 300-1000 m, driving away mosquitoes, flies, midges, ticks and horseflies for a long time. Spirals and sticks do not act so globally, but while they are smoldering, you can get rid of mosquitoes and sit quietly in the gazebo or on the veranda.

You can buy a smoke bomb “Quiet Evening” with a 10% discount in the online store.

Purchased and homemade mechanical traps

Traps for mosquitoes and gnats can be purchased at a hardware store or you can make your own. The principle of their work is based on luring insects with various smells.

Habitual and available remedy from . Most of all, they are effective against flies, but a mosquito that has touched the sticky edge of the tape will no longer be able to fly.

Velcro comes in the form of strips of sticky paper rolled into a roll. It is better to hang them near light sources ( garden lights, lamps in gazebos), as most insects are attracted to illuminated areas.

Homemade Velcro

Effective Velcro with an attractive smell for mosquitoes can be made by hand. This requires stripes. thick paper soak in any of these mixtures:

• rosin, castor oil, turpentine and sugar;
• pine or spruce resin, wax, linseed oil and honey;
• glycerin, honey, petroleum jelly and rosin.

The ingredients are mixed in a suitable bowl and melted in a water bath. Then you should soak the strips of paper with the resulting liquid and place them in different parts site.

Purchased traps with viscous liquid

They are containers filled with a viscous sticky substance with an attractive smell for mosquitoes, midges and horseflies. Touching the sticky liquid, the insect remains trapped forever.

Some traps contain insecticides, others work only due to stickiness. Traps are disposable, but in one cycle of use they are able to drown up to 20 thousand mosquitoes.

Homemade traps

An example of a simple and effective trap is the yeast trap.

Manufacturing scheme:

1. A 1.5 liter plastic bottle is cut across into two halves.
2. In the lower part is placed 2 tbsp. l. sugar, a little warm water and a small packet of yeast.
3. The upper part is inserted into the lower neck down (without a lid).

Yeast is activated, begins to release CO2 and lactic acid. The smells of these substances in mosquitoes are associated with the smell of the human body, and therefore effectively attract them. Mosquitoes get inside the trap easily, but they cannot get back out, because the funnel-shaped upper part interferes with this.

Summer is coming, which means that very soon our houses will be attacked by uninvited and not at all pleasant guests - mosquitoes! Store shelves are full of a wide range of products for all sorts of ways to deal with these little pests. But chemicals often harmful and even dangerous to health. Is there an alternative? Yes! There are quite a few options on how to get rid of mosquitoes with folk remedies that have been proven for centuries.

Aroma oils

There are several repellant oils that repel insects and keep unwanted guests out of your home. The principle of operation is simple: a candle is placed at the bottom of the lamp, 2-5 tablespoons of water are poured on top and the necessary essential oil is added. How much oil to take depends on the aroma:

• Eucalyptus oil - 4-7 drops;
• Tea tree - 3-5 drops;
• Juniper - 3-6 drops;
• Melissa - 4-6 drops;
• Basil, geranium - 3-5 drops.

For achievement maximum effect you need to light the aroma lamp 1-2 times a day for half an hour.

Camphor and valerian also help well. Only a few grams of the plant, heated in an aroma lamp or burner, act over fairly long distances and clean the room well from uninvited guests.

Carnation, anise, basil, and eucalyptus are the scents of these plants that mosquitoes don't like very much. It is good to add the oils of these plants to the fire: to a frying pan, a candle, a fire or a fireplace. If you need to clean the room from mosquitoes, the best remedy is to put oil on a piece of cotton wool and leave it on the windowsill.

Spray

In half a liter of warm water, add 2 tablespoons (or 20 ml) of vodka, 1 teaspoon of salt / soda (without top) and 8-10 drops of any of the repellent essential oils listed above. Pour the resulting solution into a spray bottle. Spray all over the rooms Special attention giving windows, doors and curtains.

In addition to harmful mosquitoes, lemon balm, eucalyptus, juniper and tea tree oils will help to deal with all the bacteria in the room. Pleasant aroma oils will also give your apartment a pleasant aroma, and you will be in a good mood! They will also relax and relieve all tension, worries and fatigue!

dried plants

Mosquitoes are known to be very sensitive to odors. There are a number of herbs and remedies with a strong aroma inherent in them, which these harmful insects cannot stand and fly around for a kilometer.

Since ancient times, a well-known weapon and the best remedy for mosquitoes is dried chamomile (Persian, Caucasian, Dalmatian). Chopped to a powdery state, the inflorescences, leaves and stems of this plant destroy nervous system insects.

Put a bouquet of daisies in each corner of the apartment, and you will rid yourself of mosquitoes for at least a week.

Bird cherry (leaves and flowers), leaves of tomato, wormwood, lemon balm, thyme, lemongrass or basil, finely ground and scattered around the apartment, are also well suited for this purpose. And fresh elderberry can be placed in the house as a bouquet or planted under the windows if you live in nature.

The best folk remedies for mosquitoes for the street

And here are a few ways to protect yourself and escape from harmful bloodsuckers while walking in the fresh air, so that your outdoor recreation does not turn into an endless struggle with mosquitoes and torment from their bites.

Aromatherapy for skin

All you need is to prepare a special aroma mixture that will scare away all uninvited insects. The composition is prepared according to the principle of 1 spoon (5-10 ml) of base oil plus a few drops of essential oil. Of the base oils, apricot kernel, jojoba, avocado, macadamia, avocado, grape seed oils are well suited - all that do not leave greasy marks on clothes, but are well absorbed into the skin. The amount of essential oil depends on its type:

• Eucalyptus - 7-10 drops;
• Tea tree and lemon balm - 3-5 drops;
• Juniper 4-7 drops.

The amount is based on a spoonful of base oil. Lubricate exposed areas of the body with the resulting aroma mixture. Renew and reapply every 2 hours.

You can use natural vanilla extract, which should be applied to the pulse points: the neck, wrists, bends in the elbows and under the knees.

Cosmetical tools

Essential oil can also be added to any product that you use daily: body lotion or cream, shower gel, shampoo, and even bubble bath! Your body will take on a subtle scent that mosquitoes won't like and will make them leave you alone. Add oil of your choice:

• Eucalyptus - 3-5 drops;
• Tea tree - 2-5 drops;
• Melissa - 2-4 drops;
• Juniper - 2-3 drops.

Based on 10 g (or 1 tablespoon) of funds. Mix thoroughly and use as usual.

Water procedures

Wash yourself in the morning with a decoction of wormwood and its roots, and insects will avoid you throughout the day.

Preparation: pour a handful of chopped plant roots with 1.5 liters of water, bring the solution to a boil and then let it brew.

Best remedies for mosquito bites

If, nevertheless, a mosquito caught you and left an unpleasant itchy bite on your body, you can also use proven folk tricks that will help you neutralize insect venom, relieve swelling and prevent inflammation. To well lubricate and disinfect the bite, the following means are suitable:

1. Soda solution (half a teaspoon of soda mixed in a glass of water).
2. Ammonia (half mixed with water).
3. Potassium permanganate solution (pale pink).
4. Kefir or curdled milk.
5. Mashed leaves of plantain, bird cherry, mint or parsley (fresh).
6. "Asterisk" is a good old proven tool. It will not only relieve itching, but also scare away all the mosquitoes in the area.
7. Half an onion: apply with a cut to the bite and hold for several minutes until the juice forms).
8. Leaf of aloe, parsley, bird cherry, peppermint or plantain: apply the leaves to the bite, tie a gauze bandage and wear for several hours.

Choose the best and most convenient mosquito repellent and method of dealing with them, and harmful insects will forget the way to your house and will no longer bother you with their annoying squeak.

_____
Ekaterina Ryzhkova "The Best folk remedies from mosquitoes" especially for the Eco-life website.