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Garlic: An Herb Society of America GuideOther UsesInsect RepellentGarlic has a long folk tradition as an insect and pest repellent
used to combat aphids, white flies, spiders and other pests
(61, 66, 82), but garlic's insect repellent abilities are more than
just folklore. Diallyl disulfide and diallyl trisulfide, two
compounds in garlic oil, are insecticidal (46). In scientific
studies, garlic has successfully destroyed mosquito larvae and
certain species of ticks, and has repelled mosquitoes, black flies,
fruit flies, and fleas (46). Garlic oil has been effective enough
combating insects to be included in a patented insect repellent
for humans (78 cited in 46). Garlic has also demonstrated success
repelling larger pests, including rabbits, moles and deer (41).
It can be used to prevent the spread of mold and repel insects from
stored fruit (53), and some people even place garlic in drawers to
repel moths (41). AdhesiveGarlic "glue" can be made by simply rubbing clove juice on paper (41) or glass, and garlic adhesive has been used to repair glass in China (16, 74 cited in 55). CosmeticsHomemade cosmetics can be made with garlic. For a face cleanser,
combine garlic and lemon with water, or cider vinegar and lavender
flowers. For a scalp and hair lotion, mix garlic with vodka, water
and rosemary (41). Believe it or not "garlic derivatives"
have even been used in perfumes (32 cited in 67)! When using
garlic in cosmetic preparations, Pat Reppert suggests applying a
diluted garlic solution on the inside of the arm to check for
sensitivity or irritation (59). Next topic: Varieties |
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