16 Harmless Ways to Keep Pests at Bay

We can be conscious and avoid the intentional harm of any species, by choosing vegan, cruelty free products, plant based diet and organic vegetables. But what about insects and pests?

While it is true that accidental deaths and injury of other tiny life-forms may not always be avoidable, here are a few simple and non-toxic ways to repel bugs and pests without harming them, your health or the planet.

1. Garlic: One of the best and easiest ways of repelling insects is garlic. A few peeled cloves of garlic left scattered around the house can keep roaches away. Not only that, garlic water sprayed around the house and garden can keep many pests away. Not just cholesterol and heart disease, in some cultures consuming raw garlic has also been believed to ward off mosquito bites too.
2. Cloves: To repel flies and mosquitoes slice a lemon or orange and insert a few cloves into each half and place wherever needed. Cloves and cinnamon contain ‘eugenol’, a substance that repels insects.
3. Oils: A very popular cure for repelling insects is citronella oil. Tea-tree oil also works to repel bedbugs, ticks and fleas. Oils can be used in aromatherapy diffusion or within a spray.
4. Citrus Peels: The peels of oranges and lemon rind can be effective at repelling ants, cats and insects, so do not simply throw them away immediately. Scatter or leave some around in your windowsill or cupboards for some time.
5. Mint: Planting plenty of mint in the garden is great for warding off spiders, mice and a variety of bugs naturally. You could also spray peppermint essential oil for similar effect at home.

6. Bay Leaves: Whole laurel bay leaves in your kitchen shelves, cabinets and wardrobes can keep infestations of ants and bugs at bay.

7. Neem: Not only does neem prevent germs, cavities and skin infections, it is also fantastic as an insect repellent, both as loose leaves or powder and as essential oil.
8. Conkers: Spiders are mysteriously repelled by a few loose conker shells placed along the boundary of your property.
9. Visual Deterrents: If pigeons are getting stuck in your solar panels, try scaring them off with shiny rods, chimes, foil or tape that move in the wind. Scarecrows, owl and cat figurines in the garden also keep pests away.
10. Copper Tape: Copper makes an excellent barrier against slugs and snails in the garden to protect your plants without using pesticides.
11. Flower Power: Lavender, marigold, geranium, petunias and chrysanthemums are not only beautiful flowers but also work as natural pest repellents.
12. Cooking Herbs: Oregano, basil, eucalyptus, lemongrass, rosemary, thyme, fennel, chives, dill, parsley, mint, catnip and lemon balm are but a few herbs reputed to keep infestations out. Their essential oils are great too.
13. Sunshine: A lot of natural light and strong sun is great for warding off unwanted pests and diseases, so let there be light!
14. Aeration: Clean and fresh air, especially cross-ventilation with plenty of windows is not only great for health but also keeps germs and bugs away. Stale environments, stagnant energy and closed rooms however would attract infestations.
15. Minimalize: Not only is keeping your house clean and clutter free with minimal objects stacked around good for reducing negative energy but also works to ensure fewer infestations. Keep your home especially free of newspapers, bulky furniture, heavy curtains, carpets, plastic bags, junk and old bedding where insects could hide.
16. Things to avoid: Salty foods, artificial perfumes, alcoholic drinks, sugary treats, chocolate, dairy products, cans, stale food, leftovers, food particles, junk food, overflowing bins, dead animals or meat would attract pests and hence not recommended.