Health and Fitness

These Insanely Helpful Garden Plants Keep the Mosquitoes Away

Say goodbye to the outdoor pests. Bugs come with the territory when you’re outdoors, but some are more tolerable than others. If it feels like mosquitoes are invading your yard, it’s understandable to want to do what you can to get rid of them. Enter mosquito repellent plants. Here’s the thing: Experts say that the best way to keep mosquitoes at bay is to use personal repellents recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). But if you want to go a more natural route, you may be interested in selecting certain plants—they’re just not necessarily guaranteed to work as well as a spray. “The idea that planting certain plants around your home will successfully repel mosquitoes is only supported by anecdotal evidence and not empirical evidence,” says Eva Buckner, Ph.D., assistant professor and state extension specialist at the University of Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory. It’s important to note, though, that there is some evidence that certain plants may help discourage certain mosquitoes from setting up camp in your yard—they just don’t work as well as a chemical or spray. If it feels like your outdoor space is a haven to mosquitoes, it’s a good idea to “eliminate mosquito breeding grounds on and around your property by draining standing water from flowerpots, birdbaths, grill covers, baby pools, and other sources,” says Jim Fredericks, Ph.D., board-certified entomologist and senior vice president of public affairs at the National Pest Management Association (NPMA). Using a small fan outside may also help keep mosquitoes away since “they are not strong flyers,” Fredericks says. But if you like the look and smell of certain plants and want to see if they keep the mosquitoes away, too, there’s no reason not to try them. These are the plants fans swear are most likely to help get rid of mosquitoes. Snap up one or a few to enhance your outdoor space.

Sweetgreen is selling steak for the first time, and it hopes the pricey add-on will bring protein-hungry customers in for dinner

The caramelized garlic steak is Sweetgreen's priciest protein, and its CEO said customers are hungry for meaty meals.

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex doing her own hair and make-up in Nigeria

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex has been doing her own hair and make-up during her trip to Nigeria and has been praised by her make-up artist for being "so good" at creating her own looks.

What does the shape of your toes reveal about you?

Nothing grabs our attention as much as an insight into our personalities, be it via astrology or palm reading. But did you know your toes can also reveal your personality traits? In this gallery, you'll get some fascinating insights into the link between the length of your toes and your personality! Is your second toe longer than your big toe? Or are your first three toes all the same length? This can say more about your personality than you might imagine. So click on to discover what the shape of your toes says about you.

I've Eaten At Nearly Every Single Chain Restaurant—These Are The Best Menu Items

Two years later and 20 restaurants down, this is our official list. People always ask: What are the *best* chain restaurant menu items? Honestly, I've tried too many to count; they've all become a massive blur in my memory. So, to make your lives easier (and, selfishly, mine), I've made the official ranking of the best menu items at each restaurant I've visited. Buckle up y'all.

Dad's quick reflexes saves daughter as she tumbles out of stroller

A quick thinking father was caught on home video footage catching his baby daughter as she tumbled out of her pram. Zhang Jinxia was feeding his 17-month-old daughter as she sat in her stroller when she suddenly fell sideways.

What Are The Benefits Of Avocado Oil For Hair? A Review By Nutrition Professionals

Religious heritage preservation: Delving into newly finished Mosque of Blessed Tree

AMMAN — The Mosque of the Blessed Tree, located approximately 140 kilometres northeast of Amman, in the Safawi area of Mafraq, is a newly constructed 250-square-metre heritage mosque. The mosque was finished in March this year after several months of work, as the architects used traditional materials and techniques. “This sacred site is meticulously maintained by the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, alongside the Royal Committee for the...

The British royals' love affair with the Armed Forces

Members of the British royal family have served in the Armed Forces for many years. Serving the country in a military capacity has become a tradition among male members of the royal family (although Queen Elizabeth II famously made history in this field). But while many royals hold numerous honorary ranks and were appointed a number of roles, in this gallery we'll focus mostly on the ranks attained during their service years. Curious to find out who did what in the Armed Forces? Then click on!

Vera Wang, 74, looks unrecognizable in throwback photo with daughters

The acclaimed fashion designer uploaded a snap of herself with her two daughters, Cecilia, now 34, and Josephine, now 31, from nearly three decades ago to commemorate the holiday.

Prince Edward leads festival-style celebration at Buckingham Palace

Prince Edward was joined by special guests including British astronaut Tim Peake in the grounds of Buckingham Palace to mark the achievements of thousands of young people across the UK

The unbelievable prison people are paying to stay in

Prison Inside Me in Hongcheon, South Korea, is a mock penitentiary center where people surrender their belongings, submit to strict rules, and stay locked in a cell—voluntarily. While you usually hear of people trying to escape from prisons, South Koreans are actually paying to go to prison for an escape. Check out this gallery to see just what's so appealing about this curious confinement.

Are you teaching your children these essential life skills?

As busy as adult life can be, with the responsibilities of work and parenthood, the value of going the extra mile to help your children learn the fundamentals of life cannot be understated. Not only will this help mold them into equally responsible adults, but it will also provide them with a diverse skill set, so they are not bewildered and lost when they finally leave home and begin their own independent lives. Take a look through the gallery to find out some essential lessons to help your children on their journey to fantastic knowledge and life experience.

18 priceless treasures people found in their homes

From the lost Rembrandt painting in a family dining room to a set of rare gold coins unearthed in a cottage, discover some of the most incredible treasures found in people's homes.

Brooke Shields launching haircare line for over-40s

Actress/model Brooke Shields is launching a haircare line for the over-40s revealing the products targeting issues affecting including thinning tresses and scalp problems.

Mistakes dog owners make all the time

Dogs are wonderful pets, but training and caring for them can be challenging at times. We want our dogs to feel loved, but also want them to behave and to obey our commands. There are many benefits to owning a dog, but there are also responsibilities, and sometimes we do things we're not supposed to even though we do them with the best intentions. In this gallery, we list some of these common mistakes. Intrigued? Click on to see if you've been guilty of any of these.

Signs that you are in a toxic relationship

Most of us have been involved in a toxic relationship at some point in our lives, whether it was in the personal or business sphere—and whether we knew it at the time or not. Of course, no relationship is perfect, but there are certain people with whom a healthy relationship is unattainable and you just have to get out. While good relationships provide a feeling of security, happiness, respect, and freedom, toxic relationships spread through you like poison from the hands of people who only care about themselves, and it can turn you into someone you may not even recognize. Whether it’s in the workplace, among friends, or in a romantic partner, if you’re feeling drained of your energy and joy, it’s time to re-evaluate those relationships. Check out this gallery to see some red flags.

Your Health Horoscope for May 14, 2024

Each zodiac sign is linked to a part of our body and can reveal valuable information about how celestial forces influence our well-being. Discover your daily health horoscope based on your zodiac sign.Read More: Where Your Next Vacation Should Be Based on Your Zodiac Sign Read More: Health Horoscope

Outsmart the sun: common sun safety myths and facts

Summer is upon us, which means more time outdoors, enjoying those lovely moments in the sun. However, before you go outside, you’ll want to protect yourself and your family from the type of sun exposure that can put you at risk. It’s important to outsmart the sun, as overexposure contributes to the risk of skin cancer. To help keep your skin healthy and reduce the risk of any serious sun damage, check out this gallery for the most common sun safety myths and facts. Simply click on.

Best Book Recommendations By BTS Members That Every Bibliophile Should Add To Their List

BTS Book Recommendations: The BTS boys, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook surely have made a massive fan-following across the globe for all the right reasons. With millions of followers across different social media platforms, BTS members serve as inspiration for the young generations. From music, and style, to personality and mental health, the BTS gang serves a purpose for anything and everything. If you are a bibliophile and...

I Tried 10 Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Creams and the Most Chocolaty Flavor Won

You'll find many different brands of mint chocolate chip ice cream in your grocer's freezer, but which one tastes the best?

Find Inspiration and Closure in These 50 Moving On Quotes

These sayings will encourage you let go of the past and pursue the future.

I bought a storage unit that contained $70,000 of designer clothes

Wade Venture, 37, from Portland, Oregon, bought a $410 abandoned storage unit at auction - and found it contained $70,000 worth of designer clothes. The treasure trove contained over 400 pairs of footwear

Peter Phillips' new girlfriend spoke about struggles as single mother

Peter Phillips, 46, who is the son of Queen Elizabeth II's only daughter Princess Anne, has recently started dating NHS paediatric nurse specialist Harriet Sperling.

The perfect hairstyle to suit your face shape, as modeled by celebs

Feel like going for the chop, but can't decide on the best look for you? Well, consider thinking about your face shape before you head to the hairdresser! That edgy look you saw in that fashion magazine might look terrific on a celebrity, but if you don't have a similar face shape, it might not work for you. There's a perfect haircut for every shape of face, as demonstrated by these stylish stars and their enviable locks. Ready to get scissor happy? Click through the gallery to discover the perfect hairstyle for your face shape.

Meghan Markle wore nearly £120k of clothing and jewellery in 72 hours

Meghan Markle, 42, has quickly established herself as a fashion inspiration to thousands of fans, known for her love of quiet luxury layered with glittering jewels worth thousands of pounds.

Sarah Ferguson dons German dress as she watches nephew get married

Sarah Ferguson posed for a picture dressed in a traditional Bavarian dirndl which featured a pink gingham pattern with green detailing as she celebrated her nephew's wedding in Germany.

Prince William receives gifts for Kate and kids at Army Aviation Centre

Prince William is gifted a tartan wrap for Kate, a scarf for himself and three wooden helicopters for the children as he becomes appointed Colonel-in-Chief of Harry's former unit at the Army Aviation Centre in Hampshire.

Tips and tricks to prepare your garden for spring

When and where is it best to plant? Which fertilizers should you use? Do you have a yard that you want to see (re)bloom during spring? Here are all the tips and tricks you absolutely need to know to put the odds on your side!

Words that sound dirty but actually aren’t

There are some words that really do sound like they mean something different from their otherwise entirely innocent definition. And even when you're sure they don't have a dirty connotation, it's difficult not to raise an eyebrow or giggle when hearing them spoken. From sexagesm to pusillanimous, these words are so offensive to the ear that their real meaning will come as a complete surprise. For these and more, click on for 30 words that sound dirty but really aren't.

SHANE WATSON: Anya Taylor-Joy's airport look is fit for Marilyn Monroe

UK fashion expert Shane Watson compares The Queen's Gambit actress Anya Taylor-Joy's airport look ahead of the Cannes Film Festival to that of Marilyn Monroe circa The Seven Year Itch.

Who were the babies born in the White House?

The White House is an unlikely place to be born. Regardless, there are some people who entered the world and found themselves in the official residence of the President of the United States. Ever since the early 19th century, babies have been born in this historical landmark, but you may be surprised to know that they weren't all related to a president. In fact, some of them weren't even born free. In this gallery, you'll get to know how many babies were born in the White House, and who they were. Click on to learn their fascinating stories.

Tasty Comfort Food That’s Still Good For You

Because comfort food can still be delicious and nutritious.

The best movies with plot twists

There's nothing like a good surprise that catches you off-guard in the middle or the end of a really good movie. Over the years, writers and directors have come up with fresh ways to keep audiences on their toes. Some have been incredibly bold, making their movies a particularly memorable viewing experience. Overall, it keeps us hooked. Want to discover the best plot twists you never saw coming? Then check out the gallery, and don't worry, there are no spoilers ahead.

Common skincare mistakes you’re probably making

Most of us have a skincare routine we stick to out of habit. But what if it's wrong? Even if you do your best to take care of your skin, these skincare mistakes might be the reason you're not achieving the flawless skin you've always dreamed of. But don't worry, everyone is guilty of committing some of these. The important thing is to learn from and listen to dermatologists. After all, they're medical experts who have studied and mastered the largest organ of our body: our skin. In this gallery, check out the top skincare mistakes we're all guilty of. Click on to discover them all.

The 20 best looks by Arab fashion designers at the Cannes Film Festival

Ahead of the 77th Cannes Film Festival, here are 20 of the best looks from Arab fashion designers over recent years – from Zuhair Murad's daring silhouettes to Rami Al Ali's intricate beadwork. The festival is about more than cinema these days. It is a glittering showcase of high fashion. From the classic old Hollywood glamour of the 1950s to the b...

Bijou Phillips shimmers in chic dress at Race to Erase MS Gala

Bijou Philips dons glistening dress while attending 2024 Race to Erase MS Gala in Los Angeles. The 'Raising Hope' alum made the appearance at the event while former husband Danny Masterson serves prison sentence.

The best 50-inch TVs of 2024

A 50-inch TV is a great option for smaller living rooms and bedrooms. Here are our top picks, including OLED, QLED, and LED models.

Father's quick reactions save the day as he catches baby daughter

Zhang Jinxia, 28, was feeding his 17-month-old daughter as she sat in her stroller when she suddenly fell sideways, narrowly missing the tiled floor before he quickly grabbed her by her jumper.

How often you should be washing these everyday items

Everyone seems to have their own opinions on cleanliness, which is arguably acceptable when it comes to things like personal hygiene, but at some point we have to face facts: most of our hygiene habits are lazy. Laziness can be a good thing, of course, but not when it's been scientifically proven that bacteria and fungi are growing on everyday items we touch and use and expose our loved ones too. Plus, if the pandemic has taught us anything, it's that a little more washing goes a long way. Click through to see (and perhaps be surprised at) how often you really should be washing everyday items and surfaces.

Is your shadow self holding you back?

Ever flown off the handle and regretted it after? Lashed out at someone you love for a reason you don't understand? Chances are it was your shadow at play. Best defined as "the parts of our personality we wish to hide from others," our shadows develop early in our lives and can be very destructive. From making us judgmental and critical, to angry and unfaithful, our shadows can have a negative impact on our lives in many ways. Luckily, there are things we can do to understand our shadows and help ourselves heal. Click on the following gallery to learn how you can practice shadow work.

Harry and Meghan hint more quasi-royal tours are in the pipeline

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been flying back to California after leaving Abuja yesterday following a three-day visit to Nigeria at the invitation of the country's military.

Revealed: what homes looked like through the decades

Times have certainly changed since your grandparents were young! Let's take a look back at what your grandparents' homes might have looked like way back when...

Harry and Meghan's charity is banned from raising or spending money

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex 's organisation is 'not in good standing' according to the Registry of Charities and Fundraisers in California , where the couple live.

A Look Back at ’90s Red Carpet Style

We’re revisiting the looks and the icons from the end of the 20th century.

Hairdresser introduces chat-free 'silent service'

Kati Hakomeri has introduced the special booking option for her clients in Helsinki who would prefer not to make polite chit-chat about their future holidays, weekend plans or the weather.

Celebrities Who Prove What a Difference a Center Part Can Make

Which way do you like Selena's hair best?

10 Iron-Rich Foods You Need to Add to Your Diet

Chocolate included!

Things that are considered normal in the US but are bizarre in the rest of the world

The US is a diverse country, filled with unique quirks and traditions that vary from region to region. But certain customs are common nationwide. And while they might seem normal stateside, in other parts of the world they're thought of as completely strange. For example, the average American may be used to takeaway coffee, but to many foreigners that's far from the norm! Curious to find out what's considered normal in the US, but not in the rest of the world? Then check out this gallery.

These Korean Skin Care Brands Will Give You Glass Skin

Inspo for your next K-beauty haul.