Are you concerned about bed bugs? If so, it is likely someone you know is dealing with a bed bug infestation. No one wants to be victimized by bed bugs. These insects are resilient when it comes to their victims. They need a blood meal at least once a week, which is why they are resilient. Bed bugs generally target humans more than animals. However, when it comes down to starving or eating, the bed bug will always choose animal blood.
Becoming a victim of bed bugs is something most people do not even consider. In fact, the topic never comes up until bed bugs claim another victim, which may be an acquaintance, family member, friend, co-worker, or classmate.
We suggest a bed bug deterrent, such as tea tree, lavender, or peppermint essential oil. Bed bugs are repulsed by these scents, which is why they make the ideal deterrent. Just a small dab on your luggage, purse, upholstery, backpack, or overnight bag will do the trick.
A unique deterrent that only affects the adult male bed bug is a pheromone produced by the young nymph. To deter a mating attempt, the nymph secretes a pheromone that only the adult male bed bug will recognize. The nymph pheromone is a warning that nymphs are nearby.
A study conducted by researchers at the USDA, ARS, Invasive Insect Biocontrol and Behavior Laboratory in Beltsville, Maryland, and Department of Entomology, Rutgers University at New Brunswick, New Jersey was to determine the effectiveness of essential oils – silicone and paraffin – as a natural bed bug pesticide. The study revealed that paraffin essential oil one part water and three parts [hydroxy (polyethyleneoxy) propyl] heptamethyltrisiloxane offers a 92 percent mortality of bed bugs after 24 hours.
We suggest a DIY study to test other essential oils that may be a natural bed bug deterrent.
I Found A Few Bed Bugs – Does that Mean I’m Dealing With An Infestation?
Once you’ve found a bedbug or two in your home, assess the problem immediately. The problem could be bigger than you might imagine. There could
