Why I Use Natural Bug Repellents
When it comes to avoiding those annoying bites, stings, and potential insect-borne illnesses, I always go for a natural and non toxic solution. It’s a much safer alternative to the chemical options out there. Using non-toxic ingredients means it’s gentler on my skin and clothes, and I don’t have to worry about inhaling or absorbing any harsh chemicals that might mess with my immune system or trigger my allergies. And the best part? They actually work!
How Does A Natural Version Bug Repellent Work?
Did you know that plants have their own ways to fend off harmful invaders like fungi, bacteria, and insects? The oils in their leaves, stems, bark, wood, and flowers are their secret weapons. These essential oils are incredibly powerful and can be used to keep bugs away from humans too. When applied properly, they can be just as effective as commercial insect repellents.
How I Use Natural Bug Repellents
- Repellent Spray for Clothing or Skin: I mix the desired essential oils with a carrier oil or alcohol to create a spray or lotion that I can apply directly to my skin or clothes.
- Diffuser to Repel Insects in a Room: I use an essential oil diffuser to spread the scent of my essential oils throughout a room or outdoor patio, keeping insects away.
- DIY Beeswax Candles: I have made my own beeswax candles infused with essential oils to keep pests away during outdoor picnics.
- Lotion for Skin-Safe Application: I mix essential oils with a carrier lotion for a skin-friendly application that I can use whenever needed.
- Create a blend using a variety of complimentary oils to make a unique scent of your own. Be creative, the possibilities are endless.
I love getting creative with ways to keep my summer bug-free. There are so many DIY recipes to try! Be sure to read our No Bugs Picnic Tip here.
My Go-To Essential Oils for Bug Repelling
I’ve learned through trial and error which essential oils are the best for repelling insects. Using these oils topically or diffused creates an environment that insects just don’t like. Here are some of my favorites:
- Basil Oil (Ocimum basilicum ct Linalool): This oil contains eugenol and linalool, which have a strong aroma that repels mosquitoes and dust mites.
- Catnip Oil (Nepeta cataria): Catnip oil’s nepetalactone is a strong deterrent for bees, wasps, fleas, and mosquitoes.
- Cedarwood Oil (Juniperus virginiana): With cedrol and thujopsene, cedarwood oil’s woody aroma repels mosquitoes, ants, and more.
- Citronella Java Oil (Cymbopogon winterianus): The citronellal and geraniol in this oil give off a citrusy aroma that repels mosquitoes and ticks.
- Clove Bud Oil (Eugenia caryophyllata): Eugenol in clove bud oil has a strong scent that deters mosquitoes, bees, and wasps.
- Eucalyptus Citriodora Oil (Eucalyptus citriodora): Known as lemon eucalyptus oil, its citronellal emits a lemony scent that insects hate.
- Geranium Oil (Pelargonium graveolens var roseum): This oil’s citronellol and geraniol make it effective against mosquitoes and ticks.
- Lavender Oil (Lavandula angustifolia): Lavender oil not only calms but also repels mosquitoes and flies.
- Lemongrass Oil (Cymbopogon flexuosus): With neral and geraniol, lemongrass oil’s citrusy aroma repels mosquitoes, flies, and wasps.
- Patchouli Oil (Pogostemon cablin): Patchouli oil’s earthy aroma is great for repelling mosquitoes and ants.
- Peppermint Oil (Mentha x piperita): The menthol in peppermint oil gives off a strong minty aroma that flying pests hate.
- Scotch Pine Oil (Pinus sylvestris): Its alpha-pinene and beta-pinene compounds give it a woody aroma that repels lice and mosquitoes.
- Rose Geranium Oil (Rosa x damascena/pelargonium x asperum): This oil’s floral aroma is effective against mosquitoes and ticks.
- Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia): Terpinen-4-ol in tea tree oil has a medicinal aroma that deters fleas, fruit flies, lice, mosquitoes, and ticks.
- Thyme ct Linalool Oil (Thymus vulgaris ct. linalool): Linalool in thyme oil gives it a fresh scent that repels chiggers, flies, lice, mosquitoes, and ticks.
- Vetiver Oil (Vetiveria zizanioides): Vetiver oil’s deep earthy aroma is especially good at repelling mosquitoes.
Conclusion
Using natural bug repellents has made my life so much healthier. They’re non-toxic, effective, and easy to make at home. By using essential oils like basil, catnip, cedarwood, and others, I can create various applications—from sprays to candles—that keep bugs at bay without any harmful side effects. Embracing nature’s solution has made my outdoor adventures much more enjoyable and safe.
What will you create today?