Natural Pest Repellent - The Safe Alternative

Guide to essential oil and herbal pest repellent

It’s always a good idea to enjoy the warm sunshine of spring and summer on a patio, at a pool party, or a family barbecue.  Unfortunately, there are many flying, crawling, and biting pests that attempt to ruin fun by feasting on you, or your food. 

Here are some alternative, great-smelling, safe ideas to win the battle of the buzz; and this isn’t a rumor.  

Natural Pest Repellant - Essential Oil List

-Eucalyptus 
-Cedar wood
-Lavender
-Rosemary
-Citronella
-Tea Tree
-Peppermint
-Cypress
-Rose Geranium
-Bergamot
-Lemon
-Coconut 
-Clove
-Cinnamon
-Spearmint
-Basil
-Sage

Essential Oil Spray - Mix an oil based natural compound

Recipe - Can vary depending on your desired scent.  Just be sure to have at least 50 drops of essential oils; obviously the more oil, the stronger the repellant. 

-Essential oil of choice
-Natural Witch Hazel
-Distilled water (boiled water will work too)

1. Fill a dark colored spray bottle 1/2 full with water.
2. Mix in Witch Hazel until 3/4 full.
3. Add a combination of 50 drops of your desired essential oil.  You can always change the recipe or get some mixture ideas online.  Test out a few, or make several batches at a time.

The Herbal Spray - Mix an herbal based natural compound 

Use fresh or dried herbs included in the above list.  

1. Boil 1 cup of water and mix 3-4 tablespoons of dried or fresh herbs.  Suggested: 1 Tablespoon each of peppermint, spearmint, lavender and cloves. Fresh herbs will measure more.
2. Make sure to mix well, cover and let it cool. 
3. Then strain the mixture to separate the herbs.
4. Mix the liquid with 1cup witch hazel or rubbing alcohol.
5. Store in a dark-colored spray bottle in the fridge (cooling is not needed, just desired).
6. Use when you head outdoors.  Your repellent will be refreshing, smell amazing, and keep you safe.  

Warning:  Consult a heath professional before using essential oils if you’re pregnant, nursing, or for use on small children.  Once clearance is attained, perform a patch test on a small area of skin to test for allergic reactions.