A recent NEJM showed that Insect repellants containing the chemical DEET are more effective mosquito deterrents than other synthetic repellents or plant-derived products.

DEET (N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide) is a chemical that was patented by the US Army in 1946 and is still recognized as the most effective mosquito repellent available. However, many consumers may balk at applying DEET to their skin and instead try plant-based products or other alternatives.

The researchers pitted several DEET-based insect repellents against seven botanical products and another synthetic repellent containing a compound called IR3535. The researchers also tested three wristbands containing either DEET or citronella, a plant oil common in botanical insect repellents.

They found that, overall, DEET products offered longer-lasting mosquito protection to the 15 volunteers tested. A formulation with 23.8% DEET provided just over 300 minutes of complete protection, according to the report. That compared with about 23 minutes with the IR3535 product, and an average of less than 20 minutes for most botanicals, which were largely citronella-based. None of the wristbands were effective.

One plant product was, however, comparable to the lowest-concentration DEET product. This soybean-oil-based repellent provided about 95 minutes of complete protection, on average, the investigators found.

In addition, Fradin and Day tested a eucalyptus-oil product that was introduced in the US after their study was completed. Among six volunteers, the product provided an average of 2 hours of mosquito protection.

The New England Journal of Medicine July 4, 2002;347:2-3, 13-18

Dr. Mercola's Comments:

If you saw the above news story in your local or national media, you would be convinced that DEET is the best thing since sliced bread. Wrong. This is a deadly and potent neurotoxin that you want to stay away from. If you absolutely had to use it, it should only be used on your clothing, never on your skin. It is far too deadly to ever consider using it on your skin. Enjoy Summer the Natural Way! With neem-based Botanical Outdoor Gel, you can keep insects at bay using only natural, soothing, good-for-you ingredients. While repelling insects, its combination of aloe vera and cold-pressed neem oil will also soothe any bites you already have. Botanical Outdoor Gel is so gentle, it is safe for the entire family, even infants. Learn more about Botanical Outdoor Gel now! Most commercial insect repellents are made from DEET. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises against using repellents containing more than 10% DEET on kids under 6. DEET is a pesticide and has been associated with a variety of health problems ranging from dizziness to seizures, and children are especially susceptible. There are effective natural options, as I have been saying for years now. So what should you do, now that summer is upon us? If you have been doing any gardening, like I have, you will have plenty of mosquito bites to show for it. Most of you, I am certain, know of the dangers of using insect repellant like OFF, which contains the chemical DEET. My number one choice for safe and effective skin protection in the summer is neem-based Botanical Outdoor Gel. It is made from aloe vera, citronella and geraniol, so it's safe for infants and children, too, and is even good for your skin. This is a completely non-toxic and safe product, and it works for the entire family. Related Articles: DEET Best Defense Against Mosquitoes? Natural Insect R