5 herbs that repel flies

[Dept of PMM Artists & things]

5 herbs that repel flies

1. Basil

Anyone that knows anything about herbs knows that basil is great for cooking. It’s easy to grow and smells heavenly! Humans love Basil. But guess who hates, Basil? House flies. House flies are absolutely repelled by Basil. The best way to use this all natural remedy is to plant Basil by you external doorways. If you have a large outdoor picnic area, try using small planters of Basil on your picnic tables. You are serving two purposes at once. While grilling out you can easily access your Basil for cooking, and the flies will stay far away during your lovely, summer meal.

2. Bay Leaves

This is another herb loved by cooks worldwide. Nothing puts the finishing touch on a big pot roast like a few bay leaves thrown in. But once again, as much as we love it, flies hate it. Other insects hate it as well like earwigs and weevils, to name a few. Keep these herbs growing nearby to discourage pesky pests.

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3. Lavender

Lavender is the ultimate herb for relaxation. The calming, soothing smell can really make a bubble bath a true spa experience. People have been using lavender for centuries to make their homes and clothing smell sweet. It is also used in quite a bit of cooking as well. Flies aren’t impressed with lavender, though. Hang some dried lavender decoratively around your home to keep away those buzzing buggers!

4. Tansy

Tansy is not as well-known as some of the other herbs we’ve listed here. Tansy was used in ancient times as a strewing herb because it was believed to have cleansing properties. Tansy is a nice foundation plant for household landscaping as it looks very similar to marigolds. Tansy has the added benefit that it repels flies, though. Flies are not the only pests that find Tansy repellant. Ants, fleas and moths will also stay clear if this plant is around. An extra bonus is that this plant will even discourage mice from hanging around.

5. Pennyroyal

This may be one of the most versatile of herbs. This member of the mint family repels flies, mosquitoes and fleas. However, when planted on your property, and specifically around the foundation of your home, this interesting herb can help ward off mice and ants as well! Instead of killing two birds with one stone you’ll be repelling five pests with one herb! You should use caution if you choose to plant this herb around your home, however. Pennyroyal is dangerous when consumed, even in small amounts.

Clean and Green

When you choose a more natural path in your home, you can have more peace of mind that your family will be safe from harmful chemicals and strange side effects. People don’t realize that there is almost always a natural alternative to chemical solutions when it comes to pest control, cleaning supplies, and many other household items. A little research and attention can go a long way to preserving your families’ health this summer.

http://naturehacks.com/herbs/5-herbs-that-repel-flies/

[Dept of PMM Artists & things]

Bre Geier 11:07in the evenin' Jan 17
Herbal Critter Repellent Recipes: For Dogs
Dried peppermint, eucalyptus, bay leaf herbs, marjoram, eucalyptus, rosemary, sage, clove buds. Crush your botanicals well and fill a muslin bag or use it in the cedar chip mixture of your dogs bed. The muslin bags can be placed near your dogs bedding area.
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Tick Spritzer Blend:
2 drops of Lavender, Basil, Lemon, Eucalyptus
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon vodka
Add the essential oils and vodka in a bottle, tighten the lid and shake well. Once the mixture blended, add apple cider vinegar.
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Tick Tea
1 cup of dried marjoram, eucalyptus, rosemary
2 cups of water
Boil 2-4 cups of water and remove from heat. Add your dried herbs in the
water and let is simmer for 30 minutes. Once cool, drain and use instead of
plain water in your spritzer. If you are using an herbal tea, this mixture must
be kept in the refrigerator as the herbal teas have the tendency to go bad
faster. Once you have your spritzer you can use this by gently spraying it in to your dogs coat, legs, tummy and back. Rub it in well and apply it as necessary. Do not use any of the essential oils on your dogs face or around nose, ears and eyes.
NOTE:Respect the sensitive nose he/she has and go easy when using aromatic substances such as essential oils.
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Flea Spritzer Blend:
2 drops of cedarwood, lemongrass, rose geranium
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon vodka
Add the essential oils and vodka in a bottle, tighten the lid and shake well. Once the mixture blended, add apple cider vinegar.
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Flea Tea
1 cup of dried peppermint, eucalyptus, bay leaf herbs
1- 2 cups of water
Boil 2-4 cups of water and remove from heat. Add your dried herbs in the
water and let is simmer for 30 minutes. Once cool, drain and use instead of
plain water in your spritzer. If you are using an herbal tea, this mixture must be kept in the refrigerator as the herbal teas have the tendency to go bad
faster. Once you have your spritzer you can use this by gently spraying it in to your dogs coat, legs, tummy and back. Rub it in well and apply it as necessary. Do not use any of the essential oils on your dogs face or around nose, ears and eyes