Does Sassafras Repel Bedbugs?

Historical Use

• Native Americans and early settlers to North America used sassafras for many practical reasons. Canoes were constructed of sassafras not only because of its wood qualities but because of its ability to deter mosquitoes and ticks. Beds were constructed of sassafras to deter bedbugs and fleas, as were entire houses for the same reasons. Medicinal use of sassafras has declined a bit in recent years as evidence that it may have carcinogenic properties have come to light, according to Discover Life.

Bedbugs

• Bedbugs have been around since the beginning of recorded history, adapting to homes and furnishings, tending to take up occupancy in couches and beds. They have always been nest parasites, evolving to inhabit the nest of whatever mammal they could get closest to. Adult bedbugs grow to be about 1/4-inch long.

Use on Furniture

• Sassafras can effectively repel bedbugs in a number of ways. Using sassafras-based furniture such as a sassafras bed frame or couch will keep bedbugs away. Also, using sassafras trim around floorboards will effectively keep bedbugs away. Sassafras oil is a cheaper fix to a bedbug problem. It can be applied to wood around furniture, or again along the trim of a room or house to deter bedbugs. This can be done with sheets as well but may stain fabric.

Personal Use

• Traditionally, sassafras leaves have been used to keep bloodsucking insects away. By rolling up leaves and placing them behind your ear, or by rubbing a leaf vigorously over your body, bedbugs can be deterred. Sassafras oil also can be used to this end, but recent concerns over the potentially carcinogenic properties of sassafras make this oil hard to find, as well as potentially dangerous.