Natural Bug Repellent: Recipe

It is always a perk to save money, protect the earth, and guard your family against toxic chemicals. With store-purchased bug repellent these days, you're generally buying DEET. By concocting your own natural bug repellent spray, you gain all three perks simultaneously.

Natural Bug Repellent Spray contains a mixture of essential oils and plant-based extracts that combat insects, bugs, and flies. It's important to choose a combination of oils that repels insects, and then mix it with a carrier (i.e. witch hazel, alcohol, or oil). Effective insect repellent essential oils include:

Witch Hazel

• castor oil
• catnip
• cedar
• citronella
• clove
• eucalyptus
• lavender
• lemon
• lemongrass 
• peppermint
• rose geranium

The following natural, DEET-free spray contains a combination of witch hazel and grape seed oil, that works to refresh the skin.

Ingredients:
1 oz witch hazel
1 oz grape seed (or other carrier) oil
40 drops citronella essential oils
20 drops peppermint essential oils
15 drops lemon essential oils
15 drops lemongrass essential oils

Natural Bug Repellent Spray: Recipe

1. Combine all ingredients directly into a small glass or tin spray bottle.

2. Shake well before use.

3. Reapply often, up to every 1-2 hours as needed.

Note: If you cannot source your essential oils locally, check out the wonderful oils available through Mountain Rose Herbs.