Notes about your surroundings

Bug off--While insects offer many benefits to our environment, such as providing nourishment for wildlife and pollinating plants, it’s no fun battling them on the home front. Chemical repellents may cause allergic reactions, can poison pets or children and often kill entire populations of insects rather than targeting a type.

Certain essential oils and herbs have natural insect-repelling properties. Camphor, citronella, eucalyptus, lavender, peppermint and patchouli are all excellent insect repellents. To use any of these herbal remedies, combine with an oil capable of absorbing and diluting them. Never apply undiluted oils or herbs to the body. Pregnant women should be very careful when using any herbal repellent. Use diluted essential oils on body or clothing to deter insects.

Here are some suggested herbal alternatives for fighting annoying bugs.

* Ants: Plant mint or lavender around base of water spigots, cracks in foundation or porch steps; spray garlic around the house; rub spearmint oil around sink pipes.

* Fleas: Reduce hospitality by adding nutritional yeast, garlic pills or small amounts of kelp to pet food; make a pet collar by soaking a strip of leather in essential oils of pennyroyal, eucalyptus, peppermint, cedar or citronella for 24 hours.

* Mosquitoes: To become a less inviting host, take garlic pills or Vitamin B1 daily or rub lavender or rosemary on clothing and skin.