Greenprofs

Bug Repellent Spray

As a resident of Florida I am inundated with bugs! I have found essential oils to be highly effective in keeping me from getting bug bites without the use of chemicals that are toxic to my family. Oils that have pungent, spicy, or woodsy odors naturally repel insect by masking our natural scent. Five most effective oils are cedarwood, eucalyptus, lavender, rosemary, and Melaleuca ericifolia. Because of their potency and concentration, essential oils should always be diluted when used in a spray.

When making a product to perform a specific function – like keep away the bugs – aromatherapy worrys less about the aroma and more about the effectiveness of the product. All the oils listed here smell wonderful, though some are a little stronger than others. Mix and match the oils to your liking but don’t be disappointed when what you make doesn’t smell like Chanel No.5. Number 1, the oils that you are using smell different to start with. And number 2, much of what is bought commercially is chemically produced and synthetic always smells different than natural!

<em>Here’s how to make the spray:</em>
1. Fill a 4-ounce spray bottle 2/3 full with water. Add 4-6 drops of any combination of oils listed.
2. Spray clothes frequently – every 10 to 15 minutes – to successfully ward off insects. Do not spray on face.