Dangers of DEET - Why Herbal Mosquito Repellants Are Best

DEET is considered to be the most effective bug repellent available, but using this product does come with risks. Before using any DEET bug repellent, it's important to know the risks and decide if you really want to risk your, your child's, or your pet's health. With many herbal insect repellents proving to be just as effective, you may want to really consider if DEET sprays are worthwhile.

Dangers of DEET

DEET is classified as a group D carcinogen. It has been blamed for some seizures in children. While there is no proof that DEET is totally responsible for the seizures children have, they also cannot negate the fact that some children do have seizures following the use of DEET, so they came out with a list of restrictions to warn people about using DEET safely.

Should you or a child accidentally ingest some DEET, you may become nauseous and vomit. Stomach irritation is another possibility. If larger amounts are ingested, blood pressure and heart rates may drop. Neurological symptoms like disorientation are also possible.

There are less severe problems with the use of DEET too. These issues include hives, skin rashes, and skin irritation. If you experience them, you should immediately wash the product off your skin.

EPA Warnings

One look at the EPA's website shows some of the things people often overlook when it comes to using DEET. Used properly, the EPA claims DEET is safe and effective when it comes to repelling insects like ticks and mosquitoes. You should never apply DEET to any areas of broken skin. This means do not apply the insect repellent to scratches, cuts, or open sores or pimples. You should never use too much DEET, though the determination of what is "too much" is hazy. Never apply DEET under your clothing and do not spray it onto your face.

After using DEET insect repellents, the EPA advises to shower with soap and water when you go inside and to wash all clothing. How comfortable are you knowing these are all EPA guidelines to using DEET safely?

Dr. Mercola and Badger Company make a line of effective, non-DEET insect repellents that are safe for children, adults, and pets. Instead of the more dangerous DEET, they use herbal ingredients like citronella oil, peppermint, cedar, and rosemary. Herbal insect repellents may irritate the skin, but that's the only warning you'll find with these products.