bed bug They are spreading everywhere and invading more and more areas in Spain, and for longer: due to climate change, they are surviving longer and longer, as insects die from the cold.
As stated by Dr. Patricia Guillem, professor of Epidemiology, Public Health and Preventive Medicine From European University: “Bedbugs, like many other insects, reduce their activities with the arrival of cold. The continuation of high temperatures in October due to climate change encourages them to reproduce.”
Citizens’ complaints about the proliferation of this insect occur in almost all autonomous communities. Data from the Ministry of Health shows that presence increased 70% between 2019 and 2020, but more recent figures from pest control companies claim between January and September this year the increase was 71% compared to the same period in the previous year.
There are many types of bedbugs, but the most common and annoying are those called bedbugs. bedbug (Cimex lectularius)A species that usually appears at night and bites humans, affected by body heat, aroma and carbon dioxide released when breathing. So like mosquitoes.
Plants against mosquitoes
Luckily, as with these blood-sucking insects, five plants This will naturally help you finish them. Or at least to keep them at bay.
The same thing happens with bed bugs. There are five natural plants that have highly effective bedbug repellent and killing properties. These findings promise to offer an environmentally friendly and safe approach to combating growing bedbug infestations and infestations in homes and hotels.
A research team identified five common plants including natural compounds can repel and even kill bed bug infestations without using insecticides and others Chemicals harmful to animals and plants:
1.Lavender
With its distinctive scent, lavender has been shown to effectively repel bed bugs and prevent them from infesting areas treated with lavender essential oil. Lavender, from the Lamiaceae family, is native to the Western Mediterranean and was used for healing, aromatic and relaxing purposes in ancient Greece. Its high adaptability means that it can be harvested in a wide variety of places such as Spain, France, Bulgaria, Argentina, Japan or India. Thanks to its intense and penetrating scent, it repels bedbugs, flies and mosquitoes, as well as moths and fleas.
2. Mint
Like lavender, mint is an easy plant to grow in many countries with different climates. Originating from Europe, Asia and Africa, mint is one of the aromatic herbs that are always used. It was placed in the tombs of the pharaohs in Egypt, the Greeks attributed it to aphrodisiac properties, the Romans used it to spice up their meals, and the Arabs added it to tea. In addition to being anti-inflammatory and healing minor skin wounds, peppermint compounds act as a powerful repellent for bedbugs, keeping them away from peppermint oil-impregnated areas.
3.Eucalyptus
This plant, whose homeland is Australia, can be found especially in regions with warm climates and well-drained soils. But today, it has been introduced to many parts of the world, including parts of Europe (including Spain), the Americas (North and South), Africa, and parts of Asia. With a piercing aroma, eucalyptus is known for its many beneficial properties, including its ability to repel insects. One of the reasons why eucalyptus is believed to be effective at repelling bedbugs is its strong aroma. Most insects, including bed bugs, are sensitive to strong, pungent odors. However, it is important to note that its effectiveness may vary depending on the type of bed bug and specific environmental conditions.
4. Turmeric
Turmeric (turmeric longa) is a herbaceous plant from the ginger family (Zingiberaceae) is believed to be native to India and Southeast Asia. It is known for its root, which is used as a spice in cooking and as an ingredient in traditional medicine. But it is also an effective natural repellent for bedbugs and other insects. Although they vary in effectiveness, these methods are considered safer than using stronger chemicals, but they may require frequent applications to maintain their repellent effects.
5.Rude
rue (Graveolens route) is a perennial plant that grows naturally in Southern Europe and North Africa regions. However, today it is grown in various parts of the world for its medicinal properties and use in horticulture. It is believed to have originally come from the Balkans. It has been used by various cultures throughout history for medicinal and culinary purposes and as a natural insect repellent. Like mint, rue is effective in keeping bedbugs and other insects away as it repels them with its strong and unpleasant odor. Apparently, the scent of mother-of-pearl acts as a natural deterrent to these insects, keeping them away from areas where grass is planted.