You've probably heard of catnip in relationship to cats. Some cats really love it. Most cats react to catnip by rolling, flipping, rubbing, and eventually zoning out. On the other hand, bugs hate catnip. I'm talking of mosquitoes, black flies, deer flies or horse flies, and gnats. When they smell it, they usually leave the premises.

In the enchanting woods of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, where I spend my summers, black flies, deer flies, and mosquitoes can be unwelcome visitors. While commercial bug repellents may offer protection, they often come with various chemicals that raise concerns for our well-being and the environment. Fortunately, catnip offers a natural alternative.

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