Native American Mosquito Repellent

Native Americans used herbs to repel mosquitoes.

Native Americans used herbs for a variety of reasons, including the treatment of diseases and to act as insect repellents. Many of these herbs still are used today. Various parts of some of these plants were rubbed on the body to drive away mosquitoes.

History

Native Americans have a long tradition of being in love with nature. They believe all life, including plants, rock and animals, should be treated with respect. They also believe plants help cleanse the spirit, and bring balance to people who are unhealthy in body and mind.

General Uses

In addition to curing or prevent a multitude of ailments, Native Americans believed the correct use of plants will drive away evil spirits. They used herbs to treat colds, coughs, diabetes, digestive orders, body aches, fevers, and insect bites and stings.

Examples

Native Americans pounded the root of goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) with bear fat and covered their bodies to drive away mosquitoes. When the leaves and stems of yarrow (Achillea millefoliu) are smeared on the body, they serve as a repellent. They also used Pennyroyal, which is a plant in the mint genus. Pennroyal contains a chemical that repels mosquitoes.

References

• Cherokee Messenger: Native American Herbal Remedies
• StruckbyInsight: Pennyroyal Mosquito Repellent
• FAQs: Native American Medicine
• Herbvideos: Yarrow
• University of Maryland Medical Center: Goldenseal
• Indians: Native American Life