No see ums, also known as biting midges or sand flies, are a nuisance in many parts of the world, including Arizona. These tiny insects are barely visible to the naked eye, but their bites can cause significant discomfort. If you’re looking for relief from no see ums in Arizona, here are some secrets to help you alleviate the problem:
Understanding No See Ums
Before diving into the relief methods, it’s essential to understand what no see ums are. No see ums are a type of flying insect that belongs to the family Ceratopogonidae. They are small, typically around 1-5 millimeters in length, and have a grey or black body. These insects are known for their painful bites, which can cause redness, swelling, and itching.
Relief Secrets
- Insect Repellents: Using insect repellents is one of the most effective ways to prevent no see um bites. Look for repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. These ingredients have been proven to repel no see ums and other biting insects.
- Wear Protective Clothing: Wearing protective clothing is another way to prevent no see um bites. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks when outdoors, especially during peak no see um hours. You can also treat your clothing with permethrin, a synthetic insecticide that repels and kills no see ums.
- Avoid Peak Hours: No see ums are most active during dawn and dusk, so it’s best to avoid outdoor activities during these times. If you need to be outside, wear protective clothing and apply insect repellent.
- Eliminate Standing Water: No see ums need standing water to breed, so eliminating standing water around your home and yard can help reduce their population. Check for standing water in flowerpots, bird baths, and pet water dishes, and change the water frequently.
- Use Fans: No see ums have a hard time flying in windy conditions, so using fans can help keep them away. Place fans in areas where you spend time outdoors, such as patios or decks.
- Plant No See Um-Repellent Plants: Certain plants, such as citronella, lemongrass, and basil, have natural oils that repel no see ums. Plant these in your yard or garden to help keep no see ums away.
- Use Screened-In Areas: Screening in areas where you spend time outdoors, such as patios or porches, can help keep no see ums out. Make sure the screens are fine enough to keep these tiny insects out.
- Try Essential Oils: Certain essential oils, such as tea tree oil and lavender oil, have been known to repel no see ums. Mix a few drops of the oil with water and apply it to your skin or clothing.
- Take Antihistamines: If you do get bitten by no see ums, taking antihistamines can help alleviate the itching and swelling. Consult with your doctor before taking any medication.
- Use Calamine Lotion: Calamine lotion can help soothe the skin and reduce itching and swelling. Apply the lotion to the affected area and reapply as needed.
Additional Tips
- Avoid wearing perfume, cologne, or other fragrances that may attract no see ums.
- Wear light-colored clothing, as no see ums are attracted to dark colors.
- Avoid areas with high grass or weeds, as no see ums like to breed in these areas.
- Consider using a mosquito net or screen tent when camping or outdoor activities.
Conclusion
No see ums can be a nuisance in Arizona, but there are many secrets to help you relieve the problem. By understanding what no see ums are, using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and eliminating standing water, you can reduce the number of no see ums in your area. Remember to also try essential oils, take antihistamines, and use calamine lotion to alleviate symptoms if you do get bitten.
FAQ Section
What are no see ums and why do they bite?
+No see ums are a type of flying insect that bites humans to feed on their blood. They are attracted to the carbon dioxide and heat that humans emit, and their bites can cause redness, swelling, and itching.
How can I prevent no see um bites?
+To prevent no see um bites, use insect repellents, wear protective clothing, and avoid peak hours when no see ums are most active. You can also eliminate standing water around your home and yard to reduce their population.
What are some natural ways to repel no see ums?
+Natural ways to repel no see ums include using essential oils such as tea tree oil and lavender oil, planting no see um-repellent plants such as citronella and lemongrass, and using fans to keep them away.
