Orange Oil for Termite Control
Citrus peels contain a substance known as orange oil or d-limonene, which can kill termites on contact. Various household cleaners also contain orange oil because it can effectively dissolve grease. Does this Spark an idea?
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Mechanism
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Orange oil readily seeps into wood to kill termites on contact, making it work effectively against drywood termites. It attacks the respiratory system of termites, killing them by suffocation.
Benefits
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Termite treatment using orange oil does not require evacuation of the house because of its relative safety. Orange oil termite control products also tend to cost less than other products.
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Drawbacks
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Orange oil might not penetrate throughout the wood, allowing termites to persist in some areas. Its use is also limited to indoor use because it could potentially leach through the soil.
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References
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