Stay bug free this summer

June 18, 2:40 PMNorfolk Alternative Medicine ExaminerJeanne Grunert

Science Daily recently reported that researchers have discovered a new, plant-based mosquito and tick repellent. An extract of the Tauroniro tree (Humiria balsamifera) of South America called isolongifolenone has been found to be equally effective as the chemical DEET to repel these disease-causing insects. This is good news to people who follow alternative medicine and holistic health. Before the discovery of this natural compound, the only spray-on repellent consisted of DEET based products which come with many health concerns. While scientists are still a long way away from turning isolongifolenone into a product available in stores, it offers hope that a plant-based, natural and effective insect repellent isn't too far behind.

Stay bug free and safe this summer
Summer bugs such as mosquitoes and ticks are not just annoying – they can make people very sick too. Here in Virginia, both are prevalent from early spring throughout the fall, especially in rural areas.

Natural mosquito repellents include citronella. Oil of citronella, citronella candles, and citronella plants give off a smell that mosquitoes do not like. Other oils and scents that may prove effective include peppermint, rosemary, clove and eucalyptus.Peppermint is also used to relieve stomach discomfort.

Prevent mosquitoes from breeding by removing pools of standing water from the yard and garden. Change bird bath water daily and don’t let water collect inside pots or other items left outside. Mosquitoes breed in standing water.

Prevent and treat tick bites
Ticks carry numerous diseases. For those living in the Norfolk area and throughout Virginia, Lyme Disease remains a serious threat. It's easier to prevent ticks from attaching than repelling them.

To prevent tick bites, wear long pants with the socks pulled up over the cuffs when walking in wooded or grassy areas. Wear light colored clothing so that ticks can be easily spotted and brushed off. Tick can't fly or jump, but they can crawl very quickly from a lower branch to a tall branch. All they need is a gentle push to settle onto a host.

If a tick does attach itself to the skin, don't panic. Use tweezers and gently but firmly pull the tick off. It may hurt a little but don't be afraid to tug. Once the tick is off, rinse it down the drain or step on it outside. Take a clean cotton ball and dip it in rubbing alcohol. Swab down the tick bitten area. Apply an antiseptic or an herbal antiseptic such as tea tree oil to prevent infection. Not every tick carries a disease, but if a fever, rash or flu-like symptoms develop after a tick bite, please see a doctor.

If the area develops a rash, especially a bull's eye shaped rash, see a doctor as this may mean Lyme Disease infection. The rash doesn't always appear with Lyme Disease however. When in doubt, see a doctor.

Enjoy summer fun, but prevent annoying insect bites. Here's to a healthy summer and enjoying time at the beautiful Virginia beaches and parks!