This is our first full summer in our “new” home, which is bordered on two sides by woods. Keeping some of the areas mowed, thinned out and planted with wildflowers has been great exercise, very rewarding and a constant battle with chiggers! For over forty-something years, I have been a city gal, so I was not well prepared for the fight with these little creatures. The chiggers won the first 5-week bout. But, now, I am educated and prepared for them.
What can we do to prevent insect bites this summer without having to spray dangerous insect repellants on our skin? Dr. Melody Hart, ND, of Chicago Healers, offers this terrific, all-natural advice for holistic insect protection.
For prevention of insect bites, especially during peak season, take vitamin B-1, also known as thiamine - 100mg for children and 500mg for adults. Or, try rubbing fresh elder leaves or elder-chamomile tea on skin before exposure to bugs. For a more essential oil, use eucalyptus for flying insects, or lemon grass for a broad range of insects. Try these easy tips and enjoy a comfortable, bug-bite-free summer!
Interested in more ideas for using herbs and spices for health, read here…
Dr. Hart is on staff with Chicago Healers and is Board Certified with the American Naturopathic Medical Association (ANMA), American Academy of Quantum Medicine (AAQM), American Academy of Neural Therapy (AANT), American Association of Nutritional Consultants (AANC) and National Naturopathic Council (NNC). Look for her two upcoming books 7 Habits of Healthy Lifestyle and Natural Laws of Wellness.