Some interesting news regarding bed bug control has recently emanated from the US. Researchers at Purdue University have been conducting tests to determine whether plant-based compounds which are easily accessible over the counter may be an effective way to control a bed bug population.
Spot On K9 Detection may be the first line of defence against residential and commercial bed bug infestations, via our specialist canine bed bug inspection services. However, we do take a strong interest in what happens to them once our K9 bed bug detector Rio sniffs them out.
Are plant-based compounds truly an effective alternative?
Pest control companies utilize several different forms of bed bug control, including fumigation (US-only), freezing, and heat chambers, many of which involve the use of chemicals or energy. However, another more environmentally-friendly option has been found to be effective in the treatment of bed bugs by the team at Purdue University, namely, essential oils.
“Our findings show that essential oils can kill bed bugs, but the combination of essential oils and pyrethroid insecticides has a synergistic effect,” says Ameya Gondhalekar, a research associate professor in entomology.
In other words, on their own, essential oils can kill bed bugs, but when used in combination with more traditional pest control treatments, the results are even greater.
The research found that essential oil compounds (eugenol from clove, carvacrol from oregano and thyme, and thymol from thyme) attacks the bed bug’s nervous system which in turn, kills it.
Whilst the research findings are new, and there is always a lag between publication of results and the verification or dismissal of any claims made, it is nonetheless highly encouraging news. It also begs the question, can homes and businesses reach for off-the-shelf products to rid their premises of bed bugs, before calling up a specialist team to fumigate? Watch this space, as only further research over a prolonged period will tell.
Before you reach for the oils
As bed bugs are often notoriously hard to trace, our advice would be contact a specialist K9 bed bug detection service company to conduct a canine bed bug inspection. Utilizing a highly trained sniffer, like Spot On K9 Detection’s Rio, is by far the most effective form of bed bug track and trace.
To find out more about our services, call Marcos on Vancouver 778-855-6768 or email the team at k9spoton@gmail.com
To keep up to date with other pest control news, views and research, visit Pest Control Technology Magazine.
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