Do-It-Yourself Natural Insect Repellent
Ingredients:
- 4 oz. clean spray bottle with a fine mist setting
- 1.5 fl. ounces of distilled water and 1.5 fl. ounces of witch hazel or high-proof alcohol (Drinking alcohol, NOT rubbing alcohol.)
- 50-60 drops of essential oil(s) of your choice
Directions: Fill the spray bottle with the choice of either 1.5 fl. ounces of distilled water and 1.5 fl. ounces of witch hazel or alcohol or 3 fl. ounces of distilled water. (Even though a 4 oz. bottle is suggested, leave about 1 oz. unfilled so you can shake the bottle well between uses.) Then, add the essential oils.
To Use: Shake the bottle before each use. Essential oils do not fully dissolve in water and alcohol and will settle. If you do not shake the bottle, you risk having concentrated droplets of essential oil irritate your skin. Mist onto your skin and clothing and reapply as necessary. Discontinue use if you feel sensitivity from the repellent.
Great oils for repelling mosquitos include: Cedarwood, Clove, Citronella, Eucalyptus, Geranium, Lavender, Lemongrass, Peppermint and Tea Tree.
- For a pocket sized option, you can combine essential oils with a carrier oil inside a roll-on container. Some good carriers include vegetable glycerin, castor oil, jojoba oil and almond oil.
- Reapply your natural repellant frequently, especially during times of strenuous activity. Not only are mosquitos attracted to the elevated amounts of carbon dioxide and lactic acid that we produce, but the oil will roll off with the sweat!
- If you aren’t concerned about oil spotting on clothing, you can always apply the repellent to pants, shirts, hats, socks and shoes for additional coverage.
- Geranium oil can also be used to repel ticks.
- Although many essential oils are safe for use on pets, we HIGHLY recommend that you talk with a veterinarian before applying any homemade solutions to your four-legged friends. Some oils can be toxic to cats and/or dogs.
Stop in to the Co-op for all the ingredients, and containers you need for mixing up your own heavenly scented bug away spray. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask a PFC Wellness Associate!