Ginger is often presented as a natural solution to remove ants and mosquitoes. But is this spicy root really effective against these invasive insects? Inventory of scientific knowledge on the subject.
TL; Dr
- The ginger pushes ants and mosquitoes in the form of an extract.
- Highly toxic to insects, safe for pets.
- Spray ginger protects plants and fertilizes the soil.
An increasing interest in natural alternatives
Over the years, the impact of commercial pesticides on human health and biodiversity has been widely documented. If their efficiency is no longer to be proven against pests, many studies show that they also lead to contamination of soils and water, while jeopardizing birds, pollinators or pets.
This observation now pushes a number of gardeners to seek natural methods to get rid of ants or mosquitoes without harming their environment.
Ginger: a natural ally against pests
Among the frequently mentioned tips, the ginger (Zingiber officinale) arouses particular interest. However, it is not enough simply to cultivate it in your garden or to sprinkle it on earth to hope to keep insects away.
Scientific research is formal: it is especially in the form ofExtract, essential oil or ginger water that this plant reveals its true repulsive properties. The secret? A concentration of active compounds capable of disturbing the respiratory and nervous system of insects, even reducing the size of their larvae.
Illustration image. Ginger extract paid in a spray bottleADN
Putting into practice: preparing your own ginger repulsive
But then, how do you go about it? Here are the key steps:
- Mix about ten drops of ginger essential oil in three ounces (about 90 ml) of water; Spray this solution on the leaves exposed to ants or mosquitoes.
- Prefer the use of a concentrated oil rather than a simple rhizome to guarantee the effectiveness of the treatment.
- For those who wish to recycle their peelings, macerate chopped fresh ginger in hot water for twenty-four hours; Filter then pour into a sprayer.
Proven efficiency and safety for domestic animals
One of the major advantages of ginger is its specific toxicity to insects. Ants, mosquitoes, cockroaches but also ticks and caterpillars see their population fall under its action. On the other hand – and it is quite rare in the world of essential oils – this natural solution has no danger for dogs or even for cats when used correctly. Better yet: ginger flavored water also acts as a natural fertilizerthus participating in the vitality of the vegetable garden or the ornamental garden.
In short, if the natural passage seduces as much as it questions, it would seem that ginger has found a place of choice among the effective alternatives to traditional pesticides. A small simple gesture but with multiple benefits … provided, however, to favor its concentrated version!
