Mosquito bites can torment the affected person not only by itching, the animals also transmit diseases, some of which are not harmless. Malaria and dengue fever are two of a few possible diseases that highlight how important it is to protect yourself from mosquito bites. Mosquito repellents provide a remedy for this. It is easier to prevent bites than to treat any illnesses that may occur after the fact.
What are mosquito repellents?
Mosquito repellents usually work not only against mosquitoes, they likewise protect against other biting insects that are potential disease vectors. Various forms of mosquito repellents exist on the over-the-counter market, all of which ultimately aim to protect people from bites and thus from transmissible pathogens. Mosquito repellents are usually not only effective against mosquitoes, they also protect against other biting insects that are potential vectors of disease. Their aim is to drive away or kill the sources of danger. This is done at different levels, depending on the selected product. All mosquito repellents are designed to prevent bites rather than treat them after they occur. They have a wide variety of ingredients, which can be of chemical or natural origin.
Application, effect and use
Medical use of mosquito repellents is especially important when staying in regions that are close to the equator. The heat and humidity provide mosquitoes with an optimal climate. As a result, populations in such countries are often stronger and spread dangerous tropical diseases. Mosquito repellents differ in their application depending on their form. Mosquito nets over the bed, for example, can physically prevent mosquitoes from biting. By wearing light-colored clothing, insects are detected more quickly and can be eliminated manually. Long sleeves and pant legs are also useful, as they provide less surface area to attack and thus protect the skin from excessive biting. Most mosquito repellents, however, consist of liquid tinctures, sprays and ointments that can be applied to exposed areas of the body. Care should be taken to distribute them without gaps. If the clothing consists of thin fabrics, it is recommended to apply the remedy also to parts of the body that are not freely visible. In their effect, most mosquito repellents are similar. For the most part, they contain an odorant that drives away the insects, preventing them from coming into contact with the body in the first place. The efficiency is based on deterring the mosquitoes before they can touch the skin and bite. The mosquito repellent is heated by body and external temperature, which causes it to evaporate and it attacks the mosquito’s perception. This makes it impossible for it to locate the targeted host. In addition to protective agents for the body, there are room sprays that rid the individual environment of mosquitoes. Their effect is also due to ingredients that repel mosquitoes because of their odor. A distinction is made between insecticides and repellents. While repellents influence the insect’s senses and thus prevent it from biting, insecticides kill it. Most protective products that can be applied to the skin are repellents. Because they repel the mosquito but do not kill it, there is less resistance on the part of the insect. This process results in a longer efficacy of the agent. It does not need to be adapted to changing populations.
Herbal, natural and chemical mosquito repellents.
Mosquito repellents can be divided into different groups, graded according to their ingredients. Herbal repellents include tea tree oil and essential oils such as citronella and citriodiol. Here, herbal elements of garlic, thyme, basil, lavender, peppermint or cloves are used. Another natural mosquito repellent is saturated fatty acids such as coconut oil. These substances are applied to the skin in the same way as chemical-pharmaceutical ones, which often contain DEET in various dosages. Other active ingredients are icaridine, ethyl butylacetylaminopropionate and DMP. Depending on the amount of active ingredient included, the protectant may need to be used more frequently or less frequently to efficiently prevent mosquito bites. Homeopathically, bites are prevented, for example, by taking Staphisagria D 3. This is dissolved in water and added orally to the body.The repetition of the intake must be adapted to the intensity of the threat from mosquitoes.
Risks and side effects
Mosquito repellents can harbor risks and side effects, which are particularly increased with the use of chemical repellents. Skin irritation, itching, redness and burning may occur. They can also have an irritating effect on the cornea and on mucous membranes, which are particularly sensitive. With DEET, there is also a risk of perceiving sensory disturbances such as a feeling of numbness or tingling. Seizures and brain damage are also possible in very rare cases. These can be attributed to the fact that DEET can enter the bloodstream through the skin. However, herbal mosquito repellents can also have a negative effect on the body. Essential oils can cause skin irritation and promote existing allergies, which is especially the case with increased sun exposure. However, they are non-toxic and therefore usually better tolerated.
