This month's essential oils are Pennyroyal (metha pulegium) and Citronella (cymbopogon nardus). These oils are extremely useful in the control of those pesky insects that can cause so much misery for our pets and us. Place a few drops in a 16-oz. Spray bottle filled with water and spray anywhere that insects hide. The spray can be used on furniture, carpets, linoleum and baseboards as it is non-staining. Let dry before sitting or walking on the sprayed area. Insects and spiders are repelled by the spray, not necessarily killed by it, so be prepared to see them run! (Hint: Keep a SPRAY - not pump - can of cheap hairspray handy. You can spray the crawlies and they immediately curl into a ball. Then spray weekly, especially in sliding glass door tracks, and any thresholds that lead outside. Soak paper strings or ribbons with straight oils and tie them in areas where insects can hide (i.e. curtain rods, on electrical cords that run behind furniture - where dogs cannot reach). Another method is to add a few drops of the oils to a kettle of hot water. (Do not directly inhale. In other words, don't stick your head over the boiling water.) This can clear a room of mosquitoes and other flying insects very quickly. Great for those nights when the kids opened the slider and let the flying bugs in!
Pennyroyal and citronella can also benefit "us humans". Spray sock tops and bottom cuffs of pants with the mixture to discourage insects from attaching. If you are going to be in high grass, a few drops straight (neat) on your socks - both front and back - (in addition to spraying cuffs) works wonders.
Although citronella has been used in many products to discourage insects, spraying pets with the oil/water mix is not advised. However, Cloud Nine Herbal Dip (distributed by Halo Purely for Pets and sold in Health Food stores) is the best alternative I have found to potentially dangerous chemical dips and sprays. It is made from herbal oils, has a nice odor and is non-toxic. It can be used on puppies and kittens. Mix it with water in a spray bottle and take it everywhere. Use it on grass, concrete, asphalt and any surface where your dogs may be penned or kenneled, as well as on them. Spraying insect infected areas with chemicals can be hazardous to your pet, as it can enter through the pads of their feet. This is not a problem with Cloud Nine.
Doggie Essential Oils Care Kit
Last newsletter I explained the advantages of lavender. Another beneficial oil is Tea Tree. Tea Tree oil, also known as Melaleuca, is antiseptic in nature. The antiseptic action of tea tree is thought to be one hundred times more powerful than carbolic acid and yet is not poisonous to humans! It has impressive antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial properties. It can be used to treat ringworm, sunburn, fungal infections and toothaches. Place a small amount on a cotton ball (neat) and wipe the affected area. It doesn't taste very good, but it is non-toxic. In addition, it can be placed on a toothbrush and brushed on teeth and gums. It is very good at fighting bacteria, including those that hold the door open for plaque. Insects also seem to have an aversion of it, although it is too expensive to use as a deterrent.
These oils can be purchases at any health food store. If you don't have one in your area, go to your local library and look through the racks for "health magazines". Flip through and I am sure you will find some. I current use Starwest brand (10 ml or 1/3 fl. oz.) They are called "essential oils" and there is not other name for them, so you cannot get confused.
