by Callie Dolloff
Summer is the season for sun and fun. But pesky insects like mosquitos are out to play too! For some enjoying time outdoors can be frustrating and painful when it comes to insect bites. That’s why we’ve put together a handful of Traditional Knowledge practices that can help keep those bugs from bugging you!
The most basic tip we have is just to cover up. The less skin exposed, the less likely the insects will get to you! But, if warmer temperatures are getting to you, try something lightweight, like the summer parkas used by Alaska Natives and Canadian First Nations.
Indigenous peoples in Africa and India frequently burned elephant dung to repel mosquitos and flies with the smoke.
The Athabascan of Alaska burn something else: Punk Fungus! Again, the smoke goes to work keeping mosquitos, gnats and the like at bay.
The Iroquois rubbed bear grease on their exposed skin. Frequently, they added other insect repelling plants—like cedar—to the grease application. (Side note: have you ever wondered why some people like to put little baggies of cedar chips in their closets? It’s to protect them from moths and other insects!)
Goldenseal is another insect repelling plant. The Cherokee would grind up the root and apply it to skin, often with the help of animal grease.
A definite trend we noticed was the prevalence of essential oils that come from plants like citronella, lemon eucalyptus, tea tree and peppermint. These will make you smell bad to insects but good to people! Though they are short lived since they evaporate easily, mixing them with non-volatile oils (like grapeseed oil and cocoa butter) will make them last longer.
And if all else fails, Native Americans have used Echinacea topically for its antiseptic properties and relief from insect bites. Plus its great immune system support!
BONUS TIP: If you are feeling handy and decide to build something this summer, take a page from the books of Indigenous Peoples of Mexico, Brazil and Peru: Cashew shell oil, or cashew nutshell liquid has termite-repelling properties, meaning treating wood with CNSL will help make sure your structure will be built to last!