Vanillin against mosquitoes is one of the mild and hypoallergenic products suitable for children. The aroma of the spice repels bloodsuckers, but does not cause such a strong allergic reaction that can occur when using clove oil or citronella.
Repellent properties of vanillin
Blood-sucking insects do not tolerate persistent strong aromas, so the smell of vanillin repels them. Mosquitoes smell it at a distance of 1 meter and try to get away from the uncomfortable zone.
The spice has a bitter taste. Products prepared from it and applied to the body are strong armor against pests. Even if a mosquito decides to land on your skin, the bitterness will scare it away and prevent it from drinking blood.
Vanillin is considered safe and is used to protect young children. Mosquito repellent compositions made from vanillin retain their repellent properties until the persistent odor disappears. On average, effectiveness lasts from 30 minutes to 3 hours.
How does it work?
Vanillin for midges is a folk remedy, the effect of which has long been known. There has been no scientific research into the insect repellent mechanisms of vanilla. The main assumption why the plant helps against blood-sucking parasites is the sharp, specific aroma of the fruits of a perennial vine. The smell, which evokes pleasant sensations and associations in humans, has an alarming, frightening effect on insects. Scientists suggest that the reason for this effect lies in the biological characteristics of the perennial vine.
- Before becoming a cultivated plant cultivated in several countries, the pearl of the rainforest was native to Mexico.
- Beneficial insects have only a day to pollinate while the flower is open. If they do not have time to do this, the flower falls off and does not bear fruit. Probably, the ability of the smell to repel other insects, except for one bee species, is based precisely on this.
- The second assumption is the long ripening of the pod (3/4 years). The sweet aroma repels pests of the fragile box.
An orchid with sought-after fruits grows on trees, held in place by adventitious roots and protected from the sun. In its native habitat, it is pollinated only by bees of one species.
Traditional methods are based on practical observations. Seeing that the smell of the confectionery spice helps get rid of mosquitoes, people have developed several ways to safely apply it to the skin exposed to bloodsuckers.
This helped to be calm on the street in the evening. Then it was discovered that vanilla has the property of repelling midges, fleas and ticks. It began to be used as a means for a relaxing stay in nature and ridding pets of parasites.
The beneficial properties of vanilla have been adopted by cosmetologists, veterinarians, manufacturers of products to repel blood-sucking insects, industrial chemistry and even medicine. Traditional healers have several effective recipes and methods for making vanillin solution against midges.
What vanillin to use
To create a repellent, buy pure spice, without impurities! Failure to comply with this condition may reduce the repellent properties or even vice versa, attract even more bloodsuckers.
To prepare a protective agent, use:
- vanilla bean;
- amber-brown liquid extract;
- powder used for baking confectionery products;
- essential oil.
Vanilla sugar found on grocery store shelves should not be used. The sweetish mixture does not cause a negative reaction in mosquitoes due to the low concentration of aroma in the composition and the absence of bitterness.
As opposed to chemistry
Vanillin was used against mosquitoes in ancient times.
It is known that against the background of harmless bites, there are mosquitoes that carry dangerous infections. In addition, not every organism resists to the same extent the enzymes introduced into the body by blood-sucking dipteran insects. It is difficult to withstand massive attacks by hordes of midges and mosquitoes. There are many effective, but at the same time, chemicals that are unsafe for human health in the retail chain. Their use is undesirable if more gentle methods can be used. Among them is vanillin against mosquitoes and midges.
Attention! A natural drug in most cases is considered harmless and anti-allergenic. Does vanillin help against mosquitoes? Definitely yes. But people with respiratory tract disease, asthmatic, and skin diseases should refrain from using it even as a supplement. This restriction also applies to children under 2 years of age.
It is the sweet smell of vanilla that biting and stinging parasites “don’t like” and repels them. This only applies to spices with a valid expiration date. Even if the bloodsucker “lands” on the skin, the bitter taste of the drug will discourage you from drinking blood. By varying this, you can prepare many products with different bases, but in which vanilla will be a mandatory additive. It could be:
- confectionery white powder “Vanillin” with a needle-like structure in its pure form with a strong aroma and bitter taste;
- synthetic product obtained by chemical means;
- vanillin, made from a layer in the pine trunk - cambium;
- the drug, but in a liquid consistency (in an ampoule), concentrated form and with a more intense odor;
- vanilla bean (a natural, environmentally friendly, but expensive product);
- essential oil with vanilla scent.
Attention! Vanilla sugar is not included in this list due to its sweet base, which attracts rather than repels insects (midges, mosquitoes, ants).
Vanilla powder water
It’s easy to make a mosquito repellent with vanillin at home. The spicy water recipe is suitable for children and adults and protects against bites for 2 hours.
- Before diluting vanillin, prepare a container with a spray bottle.
- Place 100 ml of water in a bowl and heat to 60 C.
- Add 2 g of vanillin, stir and dilute the solution with 150 ml of cool liquid.
- Pour into a spray bottle.
To drive insects out of your apartment, treat the furniture and things in the room. To protect your skin, spray water on your body and clothing. The liquid is allowed to lubricate the body of children, avoiding contact with mucous membranes. It is useful to apply the product to the canopy of a crib or a mosquito net installed on a stroller.
Directions for use and likelihood of allergies
For babies under one year of age, it is prohibited to use formulations containing vanillin.
The use of preparations containing synthetic vanillin is allowed if you are not predisposed to allergies. The natural remedy does not cause side effects or allergic reactions even in a small child. You can first check the reaction by applying the composition to the elbow.
Other things to consider:
- Do not use expired medications.
- It is prohibited to use formulations containing vanillin for babies under one year of age.
- In windy and humid weather, prefer creams rather than aqueous solutions.
“Star” balm mixed with vanillin will help relieve itching and protect against new bites.
The effect of any preparation containing vanilla lasts approximately 30 to 60 minutes. After this period, you need to either apply it again, or hide from the bloodsuckers indoors.
Ointments or creams applied to skin uncovered by clothing must be washed off with water after 3–4 hours. Otherwise, dust settles on the sticky components, which leads to clogging of the pores. In these areas, acne, ulcers appear, and hyperhidrosis occurs.
If the person has already been bitten, mix a large spoonful of Zvezdochka ointment with one package of vanillin. This composition will help relieve itching and protect against new bites. A mixture of vanilla and yogurt will help a bitten child.
Cream
A good repellent that provides protection against pest attacks is obtained by mixing baby cream and vanillin.
- Squeeze a tablespoon of cream into a glass container and warm it slightly in a water bath.
- Pour 1 gram of powder into the warm mass, stir until the crystals are completely dissolved, cover with a lid.
- Lubricate exposed areas of the skin before going outside.
- The drug forms a protective coating on the epidermis that prevents aroma evaporation for up to 3 hours.
Vanillin mixed with baby cream is often used by parents of young children. They leave excellent reviews about it and say that it is an effective and safe product that protects the baby from annoying insects.
Efficiency
Vanillin-based mosquito repellents
Reviews about vanillin can be found on any forum where safe mosquito repellents for children under one year of age and older, for pregnant women, and those with sensitive skin are discussed.
I learned how to fight mosquitoes with vanillin, and now I don’t need any repellents. Minimum cost, maximum results. I simply rub the stroller and my skin with the powder. This way the smell lasts longer, the protection lasts for exactly 2 hours. I take a bottle of vanilla water with me on walks. If I see that mosquitoes are starting to pester me, I spray my skin additionally. This kind of protection is enough for the evening. Every time I prepare a new solution, the pricing policy allows this. You can buy it at any grocery store. My daughter loves this delicious smell, she always reaches out for me to rub or spray.
Alina, Moscow
The mosquitoes got a shock from such a tasty product, and I was delighted! I love evening walks in the forest, but bloodsuckers spoil all the charm. I knew about vanilla for a long time and decided to try it. I diluted 2 sachets in a glass of water and poured them into a spray bottle. Treated skin, clothes, hair. I went for a walk in shorts and a T-shirt. What was there! Mosquitoes swarm around me, squeak, and do not land on my skin. I have already deliberately exposed myself to them. One dared, sat on his finger, but did not bite. So he flew away with nothing. Enough protection for 3 hours. Then immediately home.
Daria, Tver
Vanillin makes your skin smell amazing. I feel like a baby doll, and I also immediately want a cake. I am preparing myself a mosquito repellent using baby cream. I made it once, put it in a jar, closed the lid and use it as needed. In the evening you can walk quietly for 2 hours. Then add more if you need to help the mosquitoes fly away.
Svetlana, St. Petersburg
Vanillin is a smell familiar to everyone from childhood; it is associated with sweets, baked goods, and for many, with mosquitoes. One of the best remedies for protection against blood-sucking insects, midges.
Cosmetic oil
Vanillin is used as a mosquito repellent and is used to create aromatic oil. For the base, prepare an oil that does not have a specific odor. You can take:
- corn;
- linen;
- olive
Heat three tablespoons of oil in a water bath or place in the microwave for a couple of seconds. Add 1 gram of confectionery powder or crushed vanilla stick. Stir the oil. Apply onto skin with fingertips and rub in gently. The product helps protect against mosquitoes for 2-3 hours. Repeat treatment if necessary.
Essential oil
If you don't have vanillin on hand, use essential oil from a pharmacy to prepare a repellent. Use the concentrated product carefully, without increasing the dosage, to avoid irritation of the skin.
- For 200 g of liquid - 5 drops of oil.
- For a tablespoon of baby cream or Vaseline - 2 drops.
- For 50 g of cosmetic oil - 3 drops.
Add 2-3 drops of vanilla essential oil to shampoo, body cream, shower gel and use for hygiene procedures as needed. Half an hour before bedtime, light a wax candle for 10 minutes, dropping 2 drops of vanilla oil on it. The product provides a pleasant, lasting aroma and protection against mosquitoes.
Protecting Children from Mosquito Attacks with Vanillin
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Often, all the fun of a walk with children can be ruined by annoying blood-sucking insects. In order to get rid of them, many manufacturers offer various drugs, but they are not recommended for use to protect babies. This is where regular vanillin comes to the rescue and will effectively protect your child.
Useful tips
To fight mosquitoes, you need to use vanillin. Vanilla sugar will not work here - because of its sweetness, it will attract even more insects, and these could be bees or wasps, then the consequences of bites can be more dire.
Vanillin water is an inexpensive mosquito repellent
Doctors recommend using the aromatic substance for all age groups, but vanillin should be used especially carefully before walking with an infant. Also, if you experience any alarming symptoms or discomfort when using this product, it is best to refrain from using it. Vanillin may cause an allergic reaction
Vanillin may cause an allergic reaction.
It is recommended to use the aromatic powder even for pregnant women, but also be careful and stop using it at the first alarming symptoms. In this case, it is better to refrain from walking or consult a doctor, he will choose another remedy. The best remedy for midges and mosquitoes
The best remedy for midges and mosquitoes
How to use
Mosquito trap
Do not forget that the smell of vanillin will quickly disappear, so before a long walk it is better to stock up on the prepared product. Be prepared to have to apply it every hour.
It is imperative to follow the rules of hygiene - thoroughly rinse off any remaining product after each walk.
The oily layer can clog the pores, which in turn can stimulate the appearance of small pimples and red spots on the skin.
Aloe will relieve itching from a mosquito bite
If, despite all your efforts, a mosquito still manages to bite your child, relieve pain and itching with compresses. Great help:
- juice from aloe leaf;
- finely chopped potatoes;
- a slurry of soda and water;
- plantain leaf;
- parsley juice
Top 7 life hacks against mosquitoes
Rescue liquid
The solution should be sprayed onto exposed areas of the body.
The simplest and most proven remedy is a mixture of vanillin and pure water. Add a packet of aromatic powder to a glass of liquid and stir thoroughly.
That's it - a wonderful drug against blood-sucking insects is ready! It is better to use it by spraying. An empty spray bottle is perfect for this. The main thing is that it must close tightly.
By mixing a little vegetable oil and vanillin, you get an excellent preparation that will not only successfully get rid of bloodsuckers, but will also help you get a beautiful, even tan. However, if children are very small, it is better not to use this method; using oil can cause redness of the skin, and if it is very sensitive, especially in a baby, there is a risk of getting burned.
Preparing the cream
What you need to make vanilla cream
If you prefer to use creams or oils to care for your child, you can also use them to prepare an excellent remedy for mosquito bites. It will take a little longer to prepare, but the effect of the drug will be longer.
Carefully cut the tube from the edge where it is sealed and carefully squeeze out or scoop out the cream with a spoon. Combine vanillin (3 sachets) with cream, stir with a wooden stick. Send the prepared mixture back into the tube and wrap the cut edge several turns so that the solution does not leak out
Send the prepared mixture back into the tube and wrap the cut edge several turns so that the solution does not leak out.
Use the prepared cream as needed, but in most cases, twice an hour is enough for children. There is no need to stock up on large quantities of the product; it is better to prepare new ones more often.
These simple tips and recipes will help parents protect their children from painful bites while walking. Use vanillin to protect yourself and your child, and it will not only help you save on insect repellents, but also improve your outdoor recreation with its exquisite, mouth-watering aroma.
: How to prepare an effective ointment against midges
What foods can pregnant and nursing mothers eat, and which ones are best to abstain from (so as not to harm yourself and the baby), see on the Instagram channel!
General recommendations
Vanilla rarely provokes an allergic reaction, but to make sure you don't have one, do a test. Before using homemade repellent for the first time, apply 2 drops to your wrist. Wait an hour. If during this time no redness or rash appears on the skin, use the product as directed.
In strong winds, vanilla water may not be effective. When going for a walk in such weather, use a cream or essential oil, as they retain the scent of the spice on the skin longer.
To enhance the repellent properties, it is useful to combine vanilla essential oil with other oils:
- carnations;
- eucalyptus;
- geraniums;
- wormwood;
- tea tree.
Mix a drop of oils and add to water for spraying the skin and to the cream. To protect your apartment from mosquitoes, pour the mixture into an aroma lamp and turn it on in the evenings for 30 minutes.
What not to do if you are bitten by mosquitoes
Mosquito bites should not be rubbed or combed, no matter how much you might want to do so. The result of such actions can be not only the appearance of scars due to skin damage, but also an increased risk of infection or the development of an allergic reaction.
Most often, medical attention for mosquito bites is not needed, and it is enough to endure the unpleasant itching sensation for a couple of days. But there are exceptions when it is necessary for a doctor to assess the condition of the bite site. These include:
- If the number of bites is very large and they cover most of the body;
- The spots are quite large, their diameter exceeds 5 cm;
- The lesion is located very close to the eyes;
- Swelling of the skin and severe itching do not go away within several days, even with the measures taken;
- Due to the mosquito attack, the body temperature rose;
- Severe headache bothers you;
- The general condition of the body began to deteriorate.
Each of these signs may indicate an allergy to mosquito saliva or the development of mosquito encephalitis. Therefore, failure to seek qualified help in a timely manner can cause damage to health.
This is especially important when the above symptoms appear in children under 5 years of age.
