Though various U.S. environment and health agencies have stated that bug sprays with the chemical DEET are considered safe in small quantities, additional studies have shown that DEET exposure can cause nasea, headaches and even psychological issues in people who are regularly exposed to DEET.

Nowadays there are several plant-based insect repellents if you’re looking to go all natural when it comes to bug spray. For the most part, these are just as effective as the more chemically-laden insect sprays, though for areas where serious insect-borne diseases are a real threat, you may have to settle for something with a bit more oomph.

Active Ingredients

For most outdoor activities like hiking and picnics, you can keep mosquitoes, ticks and other biting insects under control with plant-based bug sprays. These often contain natural repellents such as oils of geranium, mint, citronella or lemongrass, as a few examples. Citronella and lemon eucalyptus are specifically recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. DEET and Picardin are also recommended by the CDC.

Use the Right Bug Repellent for Your Activities

Not all bug srpays are the same. Though nearly all will provide protection from mosquitoes, it’s a good idea to read labels in order to make sure that the bug srpay you purchase is right for where you’ll be and what you’ll be doing. For example, you may want to find a big spray that is specialized for tick protection if you’re going to be hiking through the woods.

1. In areas with big tick populations, wear socks and closed shoes. Try to cover as much of your body as possible with clothing.
2. Be sure to tuck pants into socks and shirts into pants when in areas with high tick populations.
3. Wearing light colored clothing will make ticks more visible. There is also some evidence that mosquitoes are more attracted to dark colors.
4. Whenever possible, plan activities around the worst times of the day for bugs: dusk to dawn.
5. Avoid brushing against tree branches and grasses and generally stay as close to the center of the path as possible to avoid ticks.
6. At the end of each days spent outdoors, check for ticks. Pay special attention to your head and warm spots such as underarms and genitals.