Easily Custom Make Your Own Insect Repellent -- How-To Inspired by Better Basics for the Home, by Annie B. Bond (Three Rivers Press, 1999).
Simple Solution Are you mostly concerned about repelling ticks? Wasps? Mosquitoes? Black flies? It seems that all of us have our own unique set of problems when it comes to insects. The mosquitoes don’t seem to bite one person, but ticks love them.
Fortunately, there are particular essential oils that are particularly good for different types of bugs. Here is a very simple formula for making your own repellent oil, plus the very best essential choices for stinging bugs!
Insect Repellent Here is an easy repellent to make that has a shelf life of around six months. Label jars “mosquito,�?“tick,�?etc. for quick identification.
1o to 25 drops essential oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (olive oil is fine) 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel (optional)
Combine the ingredients in a glass jar. Shake to blend. Dab a few drops on your skin or clothing.
Here are some suggestions for your choice of essential oils:
Bug Repellent Essential Oils Caution: Pregnant women should consult with their doctors before using.
Ticks First Choice: Rose Geranium Other: Palmerosa, bay, eucalyptus, European pennyroyal lavender, tickweed (American pennyroyal)
Mosquitoes: Pennyroyal, lemon balm (citronella), thyme, lavender
Blackflies: Sassafras, lavender, eucalyptus, pennyroyal, cedar, lemon balm (citronella), peppermint
Head Lice: Tea tree, rosemary, lavender, eucalyptus, rose geranium
Fleas: Orange oil
A note about wasps and yellow jackets: Don’t wear perfume, hair spray, or scented deodorant. Avoid wearing bright colored clothing.Helpful Hints If you would like a good, natural repellent, Skreen Products, Inc., has produced an all natural insect repellent. The company researched old family recipes, Seminole Indian remedies, Cajun lore, and the latest science, to come up with Skreen product line, which is designed to repel gnats, yellow flies, black flies, horse flies, deer flies, "no seeums," mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas! Find out more at Skreen Products, Inc..
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Disclaimer: Care2.com does not warrant and shall have no liability for information provided in this newsletter or on Care2.com. Each individual person, fabric, or material may react differently to a particular suggested use. It is recommended that before you begin to use any formula, you read the directions carefully and test it first. Should you have any health care-related questions or concerns, please call or see your physician or other health care provider |