Peppermint smells fresh and minty.
Repelling insects and rodents is often done with insecticides or rat poisons, which contain dangerous chemicals. Rather than use these commercial products, opt for an organic repellent, such as peppermint oil. Peppermint oil is much safer and leaves behind a pleasant scent, as opposed to strong chemical odors. The insects and rodents, however, are turned off by the smell and will stay away. Does this Spark an idea?
Properties
Menthone is a compound found in the leaves and stems of the peppermint plant. The scent deters insects and rodents. Because of this, peppermint oil is often sold as a repellent. Unlike most commercial repellents, it is not required to be registered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency due to its organic properties.
Insect Repellent
Soak a cotton ball in pure peppermint oil. Walk around your house and locate any areas of entry for insects, such as small holes in a wall or a crack in a window. Swab the cotton ball over the areas. If you have found an ant trail in your kitchen, swab the cotton ball over their place of entry and everywhere you noticed the ants traveling. Create a solution by mixing 2 tsp. peppermint oil with 1 cup water or rubbing alcohol and put it in a spray bottle. Spray the solution on outdoor furniture. This will keep mosquitoes and other flying insects at bay. Spray dog beds with the solution to keep fleas and ticks away.
Rodent Repellent
Rather than using traps and poisons, repel rodents humanely with peppermint oil. Rodents often make homes in cabinets, drawers or other small, dark areas that are not often visited. Put some drops of peppermint oil on cotton balls and set them everywhere that you have found rodent droppings or bedding. If you can find a place of entry, soak a cotton ball in the oil and set it next to the hole. Mix together 2 tsp. peppermint oil and 1 cup water or rubbing alcohol and put it in a spray bottle. Spray any locations that you suspect the rodents are traveling, such as along walls or in cabinets. After two weeks or when the scent has faded, replace the cotton balls and spray all areas that the rodents have visited again.
Warnings
It is not recommended to apply peppermint oil directly to the skin because it may cause a rash. Never apply peppermint oil to the skin of infants because it can cause breathing problems that may be life-threatening. Peppermint oil can be toxic if swallowed in large doses.
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