Several natural substances and predators can effectively kill mites, depending on the specific mite species. Essential oils, such as clove, rosemary, and eucalyptus oil, are known for their mite-killing properties. These oils can be diluted and applied to surfaces where mites are prevalent. For example, a mixture of 20 drops of essential oil in four ounces of witch hazel can be sprayed on mattresses, couches, and drapes.
Furthermore, scientific research indicates that certain essential oils, like clove and palmarosa oil, demonstrate high effectiveness against mites. A 1% (v/v) solution of these oils has been shown to kill all mites within 20 minutes in laboratory settings. Source: Natural Products as Mite Control Agents in Animals: A Review
In some cases, natural predators are also employed to control mite populations. For instance, certain insects are known to prey on spider mites, effectively reducing their numbers. Source: Penn State researchers use natural predators to fight spider mites Note that the effectiveness and appropriateness of these methods vary depending on the type of mite and the environment.
- Essential Oils: Clove, rosemary, and eucalyptus oils are effective against dust mites.
- Predators: Specific insects can act as natural predators for certain mite species.
- Eucalyptus Oil Solution: A 0.2% - 0.4% eucalyptus oil solution can kill over 80% of mites within 30-60 minutes of immersion. Source: A simple washing procedure with eucalyptus oil for controlling Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus
While natural killer cells (NK cells) are part of the body's immune system and play a role in responding to mite-related allergies like house dust mite-driven asthma, they are not a direct killer of mites themselves in the same way as essential oils or predatory insects. Source: Role of NKp46+ natural killer cells in house dust mite‐driven asthma
