Soybean Oil As Mosquito Repellent

Health Tip of the Day

Soybean oil is more effective as a mosquito repellent than the essential oils usually suggested which include peppermint, citronella, eucalyptus, lemongrass, cedar, and geranium.

The Environmental Protection Agency reports that despite the side effects of DEET, which can include among many others, skin rashes, fatigue, and respiratory problems, 33 percent of Americans apply DEET liberally every year.

According to a study by the University of Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory soybean oil can protect against mosquito bites for up to 1 to 4 hours.

Another study by the New England Journal of Medicine reports that soybean oil is equal to a product containing 10 percent DEET. A product with a 10 percent concentration of DEET protects for about 2 hours.

Unlike high concentrations of DEET, soybean oil is safe for almost everyone including infants and children.

For more information on repelling mosquitoes read:

Control Mosquitoes With Oil
Do Cloves Keep Mosquitoes Away
Radishes Soothe Insect Bites
Cinnamon for Insect Bites
Catnip for Bug Bites
Garlic Repellent for Mosquitoes