Snakes have poor eyesight but an extremely sharp sense of smell. They can move quickly, and when searching for food or shelter, they may approach human living areas. For families with gardens, dense vegetation, or many pets, the risk of snakes entering the house is even higher—especially during hot, dry weather when snakes seek cooler spaces with access to food and water.

Here are three simple and effective ways to keep snakes away from your home:

---

1. Plant Snake-Repelling Plants

Some plants give off strong scents that snakes naturally dislike. You can grow these around your home to discourage snakes from coming near. Common plants used for this purpose include:

• Purple garlic vine (lan tỏi tím)

• Wild garlic (củ nén)

• Kudzu (cây sắn dây)

• Lemongrass

These plants produce pungent aromas that snakes tend to avoid. Plant them along fences, around gardens, or near entrances. Lemongrass is especially effective and also helps repel mosquitoes and other insects.

Note: While these plants can reduce the likelihood of snakes entering, they are not a 100% guaranteed solution. Keep your yard clean, trim bushes, and remove hiding spots to improve effectiveness.

---

2. Use Arsenic Sulfide Powder (Bột Hùng Hoàng)

Arsenic sulfide, known as bột hùng hoàng in Vietnam, has a distinct smell that can repel snakes. Sprinkle a small amount around the perimeter of your home or along pathways.

However, use with extreme caution:

• Always wear gloves and a mask

• Keep it away from children, pets, food, and water sources

• Clean up thoroughly after use

Because this substance is toxic, only use it when really necessary.

---

3. Keep Dogs or Cats

Snakes often avoid areas where dogs or cats are present. These pets help reduce snake activity in two ways:

• Their sounds and scent deter snakes

• They hunt rodents, one of the snake’s main food sources

By reducing the rodent population around your home, you also reduce the chance of attracting snakes.

---

Additional Safety Tips

• Clean up clutter in and around the house

• Trim bushes and clear tall grass

• Store firewood and gardening tools neatly

• Seal gaps around doors and drains

If a snake does enter your home, stay calm. Do not attempt to catch it with your bare hands. Seek help from someone experienced in handling snakes.

And if anyone is bitten, get to a medical facility immediately—do not treat it with home remedies.