How to make your own natural bug repellent
Choosing Essential Oils
Why choose essential oils over the traditional repellents? Essential oils are volatile chemicals stored in plant structures and are released by the plants to attract pollinators, repel predators, and other purposes. Essential oils are generally extracted from the plant by a distillation process; other forms of extraction include mechanical pressing and chemical solvents. So when you use essential oils, what you’re using to create your bug repellent is the life force of the plant, which is very powerful.
Human-made fragrances, on the other hand, are often made from petrochemicals in an attempt to recreate a specific plant’s scent. They include benzene derivatives, aldehydes, and many other known toxins that are harmful carcinogens to us and toxic to our environment. Conventional bug repellants like DEET are insecticides based on chemicals used in warfare, and have been linked to nervous system disorders as well as seizures. (EPA)
Our skin is the largest organ of our body and absorbs much of what we apply, so using less toxic ingredients seems like the right choice. There are several oils that can be targeted to the bugs that bother us during the summer months. You can experiment with one or a combination of the oils to make the repellent of your choice
Natural Bug Repellent Oils
Above is a chart with the most effective plant oils categorized by the particular bug they repel. A word of caution when using essential oils; they should always be used with a carrier product because of their volatility. Carrier products are other oils such as extra virgin olive oil, sunflower oil, apricot kernel oil, unscented lotions, etc. You will notice in the recipes that follow all of the oils are combined with a type of carrier. Some EOs should not be applied to children or to pregnant women. We also recommend seeking out brands who use sustainable harvesting practices.
Depending on where you are and where you’re going, you can craft a bug repellent to match the environment.
Simple Lemongrass Lotion Repellent
Use a 2 ounce bottle (you can spread this on anytime, it smells great)
Directions
- Fill bottle with a nice unscented lotion
- Add 5-6 drops of lemongrass
If you’re combining oils such as Lavender and Geranium – Use 3 drops of Lavender and 2 of Geranium.
Simple Spritzer Repellent
2 ounce Bottle (spritz this on your clothes, hair, and face)
Directions
Combine the following:
- 4 tablespoons of distilled water
- 2 teaspoons of vodka
- 5-6 drops of your favorite EO or combination
Have fun and begin to select some oils to craft your own repellent. You may even have some of the carrier oils and solutions around the house to use.
Don’t forget to label your repellent and store it safely in a cool place and out of the way of children! Read the back of the essential oil bottles for any precautions and check with your doctor before applying to pregnant women or children.
Test the oil in a carrier on a small patch of skin and wait 24 hours for any reactions.
