Natural Insecticides for Chiggers

Sulfur

• The Missouri Department of Conservation cites the use of sulfur as one of the best natural pesticides against chiggers. Sulfur is among the earliest known pesticides; and though it has been used since 1880 in the United States, it was officially registered for use in the early 20th century. Sulfur is an active ingredient in about 300 different pesticides and is highly effective against chiggers.

Use Suggestions

• For chiggers, obtain the powdered form of sulfur, available at most pharmacies. Powdered sulfur is also referred to as sublimed sulfur or flowers of sulfur. Dust the opening of clothing, such as around shoes, socks and pants, with the insecticide. If hiking into deep woods or trails, rub the sulfur on arms, legs and around the waist. Reduce the strong odor of sulfur by mixing together half sulfur and half talcum powder prior to use.

Neem Oil

• Neem oil is derived from the neem tree (Azadirachta indica) and is another natural pesticide for a number of pests, including chiggers, hair lice, ticks and mosquitoes. Products from the neem tree have not only been used as pesticides but have literally been a cure-all for the past hundreds of years in Burma and India.

Mode of Action

• Azadirachtin is the active chemical compound in neem oil that repels insects. The compound is an active ingredient in numerous products with different trade names. Azadirachtin affects the normal growth pattern in insects by disrupting their hormonal balance. Once ingested, pests stop feeding and laying eggs. The residual effect of neem insecticides lasts for up to seven to 10 days.