A Great Dollar Saving Tic and Flea Repellant, Citronella

Citronella According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), citronella has been used for more than 50 years as an insect repellent, and is particularly effective in repelling mosquitoes, biting flies and fleas. The active insect-repelling ingredient is the oil extracted from the dried citronella grass. Citronella oil has a tart, citrus-like odor that can make it difficult for an insect to locate a host via its sense of smell. It's important to note, however, that citronella merely repels insects, and does not kill them. Characteristics Citronella oil is usually colorless, although it may have a slight yellow tinge, and is identifiable by its woodsy, lemony odor. The oil can be harmful if ingested, although the quantity would have to be significant to cause damage. In fact, the relatively low toxicity level of citronella oil allows it to be used throughout the home with no negative side effects. There are two types of citronella grass, commonly called Ceylon citronella and Java citronella. Java citronella is considered superior due to the grass's higher oil yield. Dogs There are commercially available products containing citronella that can be used to keep a dog free of fleas, including sprays and collars. The Daily Puppy website, however, outlines a homemade citronella recipe. Place 15 drops of undiluted citronella oil in a spray bottle, filling the remainder with water. Shake well, then spray liberally on your dog's coat (spray some directly on your hands to work it into the area around the dog's head, taking care not to get directly inside his eyes, ears or mouth). For additional protection, soak cotton balls in this citronella mixture and leave them in areas of the house that are not regularly vacuumed. Carpets and rugs should also be sprayed.