Native Indian Remedy to Get Rid of Bed Bugs

Types

• There are various types of bed bugs. What they have in common is that none of them are pleasant. Cimex lectularius is the most commonly found bug, which thrives on the blood of birds, bats and poultry alongside human blood. Other kinds infest bats, primarily. But all types will infest homes if they get the chance.

Call to Action

• Bed bug bites have a wide range of effects, ranging from no effect at all to mild irritation, skin infections and lasting blisters. One thing is certain: if you have a bed bug infestation at your home, you will want to get rid of it soon. Research shows bed bugs are now resistant to most pesticides and DDT, which is why some native Indian remedies still prove effective compared to modern chemical fumigation.

Smoke

• The use of smoke by the native Indians to drive away pests and bugs is almost as old as time itself. Bed sheets, mattresses, blankets, rugs, clothes and other items are exposed to smoke. Water is sprinkled over the smoke to make it heavier for greater impact and the smoke is fanned to produce more smoke.

Temperature

• Extreme temperatures is another commonly used native Indian remedy. Exposure to intensely hot or cold temperatures is expected to kill bedbugs. Placing the infested items in direct sunlight in summer and exposing them to extreme cold in the winter is an effective technique.

Mint

• Another defense native Indians use against bed bugs is mint leaves -- a natural insect repellent. Fresh mint leaves are crushed and spread around sleeping quarters to repel bed bugs. These can also be dried, crushed and sprinkled around beds and rugs to keep away bugs. Rubbing mint oil over the skin also effectively repels bed bugs.

Cedar wood

• Cedar wood is another natural element effective against this troublesome pest. Cedar wood smoke drives away bed bugs. Applying cedar oil over bed posts keeps the bug army effectively at bay. The scent of cedar is the agent that wards off bed bugs and is used plenty by the Indians in their war against bed bugs.

Black Walnut

• Black walnut is a common antidote used by Native Americans. The plant is commonly found and has a multitude of uses. Its bark, leaves and fruit rind have therapeutic effects and not only have astringent and laxative properties but also are effectively used as an insecticide against bed bugs.