Herbs That Kill Bed Bugs

Limitations

• Bedbugs are hardy insects. They can multiply in number rapidly and are able to survive up to a year without feeding. Due to the difficulty in ridding your house of these bothersome creatures, many experts, including the University of Kentucky's Department of Entomology, advocate hiring professional services. These services will not use herbal insecticides. This is because the herbal remedies are not considered an effective option except in early stages of infestation when the number of bugs is relatively minimal.
  
  

Herbal Treatment

• Pyrethrin is an herbal insecticide produced from the chrysanthemum plant. It is a contact poison that affects the bedbug's nervous system. This product is considered to be one of the safest insecticides for humans by the Pesticide Information Profile through Cornell University's Extension Toxicology Network. It breaks down quickly, however, and is not effective in treating any residual infestation. The most productive use of this herbal toxin is when pyrethrin is combined with synthetic additives to increase the longevity of the pyrethrin.
  
  

Potential

• The Natural Cure For website suggests trying some home herbal remedies with anecdotal evidence of success in fighting bedbugs. Three promising ones utilize tea tree, eucalyptus or lavender oil. Add about 10 drops of one of these oils into 1 cup of water. Spray the mixture in any area that may hide bugs. These oils purportedly act as insecticides to the bedbug.
  
  

Another Option

• The Natural Cure For website reports the use of black walnut leaf tea also may have some effect in fighting bedbugs. This tea creates an astringent effect that acts as an insecticide on the bugs. Sprinkle the tea in areas on and around the bed where the insects may hide. With this and any herbal options, you may not completely rid your house of the insects. Your best chance of success with herbal insecticides is to identify an infestation early.