After we learn about the health risks associated with harmful chemicals such as those used in traditional pesticides, the next step is to find out how to get rid of pests without putting our health or the environment at risk. Natural pesticides refer to pest control solutions that are made with natural ingredients. The earth is endowed with plants that are both beneficial and harmful to living organisms like animals, birds, and insects. Some plants that are poisonous can be used to get rid of pests that harm vegetables, fruits, and crops without the ill effects of manmade formulations.Exposure to pesticides can lead to cancer, infertility, birth defects, and damage to the brain. Both children and adults are susceptible to these negative effects. Considering the harm that chemical pesticides may pose, using a natural pesticide to control pests at home is a very advantageous solution.
Plant Based Pesticides
Plants have been successfully utilized to make organic pest control solutions. Most of these plants are found in tropical areas. Before chemical pesticides came into the picture, the local people in these areas used these plants to control pests.
One such example is the Calabar bean which can be found in West Africa. Local tribes used this to control the pests invading their crops. This plant was originally utilized as a poison, and then eventually was used to develop methyl carbamate insecticide. Another example is the daisy flower. You would never know by merely looking at one but this plant is also used as an insecticide. The daisy is the source of the insecticidal extract pyrethrum.
Lonchocarpus which is a forest vine used by South American Indians to stun fish is also a good natural pesticide. In fact, the roots of this vine are imported for the creation of rotenone, which is a biodegradable pesticide.
Another natural pesticide developed in India is a mixture of Jatropa, Neem, Custard Apple, and Pongamia seeds. This concoction is used to ward off pests without harming vegetables. It’s also commonly used on bananas, grapes, cotton, and sugarcane.
For Household Use
If you find insects crawling on your beautiful vegetable garden or your lovely flowering plants, you can actually take out your blender and puree 15 cloves of garlic and a pint of water. Use a cheesecloth as a strainer and pour it into a spray bottle. Apply the solution to the top and bottom leaves of your plants every few days and those little suckers are a thing of the past.
When infestation is overwhelming or the health of occupants is at risk, an immediate solution may be necessary. If it’s time for professional assistance, make sure you inquire about natural and non-toxic pest control technologies whenever possible. Find an affordable exterminator in your city and get rid of those pests!
