Mosquitoes are not deterred by vanilla extract, contrary to popular belief
In the pursuit of natural alternatives for insect repellents, vanilla extract may seem like a tempting option. However, recent findings suggest otherwise.
Vanilla extract, while delightful to our senses, could potentially attract pests that are drawn to sweet smells. Contrary to popular belief, vanilla extract does not reliably repel mosquitoes and is not effective against other pests like wasps, flies, or ticks [1].
Mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects are not deterred by scent alone. Ticks, for instance, are opportunistic and latch on when you brush past them [2]. Vanilla extract, therefore, does not provide the necessary protection against these pests.
In comparison, established repellents like DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus are scientifically tested and recommended by health authorities for effective mosquito and insect bite prevention. These repellents work by emitting scents or chemicals that insects find strongly unpleasant, effectively deterring them for hours [1].
DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus are reliable options for protection against a variety of insects, including mosquitoes, ticks, flies, fleas, and more [3]. However, it is important to note that oil of lemon eucalyptus can be toxic to dogs and cats if ingested [4].
DEET, in particular, has long been proven to be safe and effective at repelling insects [5]. Picaridin-based insect repellent, synthetically made from black pepper, provides good protection without damaging clothing [6].
To ensure optimal protection, it is recommended to apply bug repellent after sunscreen. Re-applying vanilla extract every 30 minutes is necessary for continued protection, but this is not practical and may not provide the consistent protection needed against insect-borne diseases such as Malaria, Lyme disease, Chagas disease, West Nile virus, and Zika virus [1].
In summary, for reliable insect protection, it is best to use DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus formulations rather than vanilla extract. These proven repellents offer a more effective means of protection against a wide range of insects and the diseases they carry.
[1] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Insect Repellent FAQs. https://www.cdc.gov/insects/insectrepellents/index.html [2] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Tickborne diseases. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tick-borne-diseases/symptoms-causes/syc-20378644 [3] Environmental Protection Agency. (2021). Insect Repellents. https://www.epa.gov/insect-repellents [4] American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. (2021). Essential Oils and Pets. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/essential-oils [5] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Insect Repellent FAQs. https://www.cdc.gov/insects/insectrepellents/index.html [6] Environmental Protection Agency. (2021). Picaridin. https://www.epa.gov/insect-repellents/picaridin
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