Bug sprays containing plant extracts like d-limonene and other botanical oils are good options for people who want a natural, chemical-free way to manage pests.
What is d-limonene? What are botanical oils?
D-limonene is made from the extract of citrus peels, such as from oranges, lemons and / or limes. It is one of the most powerful aromatic compounds found in nature and it has natural insect control properties. D-limonene is an active ingredient in natural bug sprays. It has been registered as a pest control product in Canada since 2015.
Botanical oils are extracted from plants, such as peppermint and garlic. They contain properties that repel and kill insects. Garlic oil is an ingredient in natural mosquito spray. Garlic has been registered as pest control product in Canada since 2014.
How do d-limonene and natural oils work to control pests?
D-limonene kills ants, fleas, cockroaches, silverfish and other insect pests on contact. When sprayed directly on insects, d-limonene breaks down the waxy coating of the insects’ exoskeleton. This causes the insect’s breathing spiracles to clog, thus smothering the insect. (Insects don’t have noses; they breathe through openings on their body called spiracles.)
In addition, d-limonene is a natural bug repellent spray. Its citrus fragrance creates a defensive barrier that repels insects and keeps them out of the house.
Natural botanical oils may kill insects on contact and/or repel them. Mosquitoes, for instance, are 10,000 times more sensitive to the odour of garlic than humans. When mosquitoes smell garlic, they fly away.
How and where do I apply d-limonene and natural oils?
To use D-limonene as a kill-on-contact solution, spray insects directly and then wipe up overspray with a damp rag. To use it as a repellent spray to prevent bugs from entering your house or businesses, apply the spray in cracks, crevices and to other points of entry every three or four weeks.
Apply products containing botanical oils according to the label. To repel mosquitoes, garlic oil is best applied to small areas near pools, decks, barbeques, and patios. Be sure to spray the shrubs, landscaping, and shaded areas where mosquitoes typically rest.
A natural pest control product containing d-limonene or natural oils is a good option if you are concerned about pesticide toxicity and safety, and if you can tolerate seeing an occasional insect in your home or business. It is not recommended for use on tough-to-control insects or for controlling a well-established population of insect pests.
Some bug sprays made from d-limonene or botanical oils may stain surfaces and textiles. Always test in an inconspicuous area first to determine if it will mark the flooring or upholstery.
Also be aware that d-limonene and natural oils have powerful scents. If you are averse to the smell of orange, garlic or peppermint, you may not want to apply a product containing such compounds in your home, yard or business.
How do I buy pest control products with d-limonene and natural oils?
You can buy natural insect control products containing d-limonene and botanical oils from Pest HQ. We only sell professional pest control products from the most reputable manufacturers and brands, including Orange Guard and Mosquito-Less.
Pest HQ sells d-limonene from Orange Guard in a 32-ounce (946-ml) spray bottle, which makes it easy to use as natural insect repellent for the home.
We sell garlic-based Mosquito-Less in a ready-to-use, 30-ounce (900 ml) spray bottle, which covers about 280 square feet of outdoor space.
Are d-limonene and natural oils safe for pets and people?
Yes, d-limonene and natural oils are safe for pets and people.
D-limonene is Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for use as a food flavoring by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The compound is found in common food items, including fruit juices, soft drinks, baked goods and ice cream. Scientists agree that d-limonene does not pose a health risk to humans.
Some natural bug sprays containing d-limonene are certified organic. D-limonene is kind to the environment. It is biodegradable, non-flammable and won’t harm plants or pollinators.
Pesticide products containing natural oils, like garlic, likewise are safe for people, pets and plants when used as directed. They provide an ecologically safe way to control mosquitoes near bodies of water, such as at docks and waterfront cottages. Garlic oil is listed in the Canadian Food Chemicals Codex as a food grade product.
Always store insecticides, including natural ones, out of the reach of pets and children, preferably in a locked cabinet. Read the product label directions for additional safety precautions.
