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Cactus Juice as a Bug Repellent

Many people seek out natural alternatives to commonly used products like makeup, sunblock, lotion, shampoo, and conditioner. Cactus juice is a naturally occurring substance that has many properties that make it effective as a bug repellent.

  1. Features

    • Many bug repellents that you will find in your local store are laden with questionable chemicals. Cactus juice provides natural outdoor protection that will last up to six hours. It is safe for children to use and is considered non-irritating. Some cactus juice products are sold with built-in sunscreen.

    History

    • During the U.S.-Mexican War, soldiers had to contend with mosquitoes constantly. The Army physicians were concerned that the mosquitoes were spreading disease, in addition to being a nuisance. Soldiers used a mixture of camphor oil, lard and cactus juice as protection from bugs.

    Facts

    • The Prickly Pear Company holds U.S. Patent Number 5,736,584 for its cactus juice bug repellent solution. The repellent is comprised of cactus juice ("cactus extract made from the leaves and stems of the Prickly Pear Cactus") in a mineral oil base. Prickly Pear claims that the solution acts as a repellent when applied on mammal fur or skin.

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