Monoterpenes from thyme (Thymus vulgaris) as potential mosquito repellents. Im so glad your kids like the bug spray. Witch hazel is an alcohol-based astringent that is commonly used in DIY repellents. For the final step, shake in the water. However, as it dries the smell dissipates to humans. Either a high-proof vodka or witch hazel may be used in this recipe as the carrier (to the skin) for the bug-repelling essential oils. Mix this water with witch hazel and pour it in a spray bottle.
Who makes the best oils for consumption and for aromatherapy? The picture with this article looks like it is a metal spray bottle. Is this safe to use on a 2 & 1 year old? The information in our articles is NOT intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. If mosquitoes are a major concern, cinnamon oil may be a good option to consider. While studies suggest that many natural ingredients may be effective in repelling insects, more research is needed.
This agent helps everything mesh and stay mixed. A 2016 review concluded that oil of lemon eucalyptus is an effective natural mosquito repellent. Another study suggested cinnamon oil may be effective in killing mosquito larvae as well.
(2013). Join us as we share the best tips and resources for your next outdoor adventure!
(2019). When using witch hazel, make sure it contains a preservative on the ingredient list (most do). Hey Meredith, I do. 
I have olive oil and coconut already but I would get the glycerin if you think it is worth it? Garlic is a well-known repellent for both insects and animals. No one likes dealing with bug bites. Studies suggest that peppermint oil works to both kill and repel mosquitoes. If it is a cat, I dont recommend it. thanks, Check this out: https://draxe.com/beauty/best-sunscreens/ The marinator is by far the smelliest homemade insect repellent recipe on the list. Save the vodka unless thats all you have! This Dr. Axe content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure factually accurate information. Ive definitely seen this help! Many factors can attract mosquitoes, including the carbon dioxide. What is an essential oil? 
Hey Noel, Thank you for sharing! If you want to make a homemade bug spray, make sure you know about the safety of the ingredients youre using. Im going to email Retha at Plant Therapy and ask her about the pet safety issue.
jenniraincloud repellent Essential oils sensory quality and their bioactivity against the mosquito Aedes albopictus. What is the shelf life on this spray? Which companies are the best for ordering those oils? 
Remember, while many essential oils are safe and effective for repelling insects, that doesnt mean theyre safe for topical use. Studies suggest citronella helps repel mosquitoes, and it may also be effective against kissing bugs, fleas, aphids, mites, and flies. Clove oil is quite potent though, so dont apply it directly to your hands or leave it on your skin overnight.
Also, does it by any chance ruin clothes due to the glycerin or possible oil content? Here are the best insect repellents for babies. 
2005-2022 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Then add oil (olive oil, fractionated coconut oil, or jojoba oil), vegetable glycerin, OR aloe vera gel.
Combine all ingredients, shake, and apply! Plus, another study concluded that peppermint oil may be effective at keeping spiders away as well.
Mix 10 to 20 drops of each essential oil with 2 ounces distilled water and 2 ounces of white vinegar. Avoid wearing scented lotions and perfumes outside. All should be stored in dark-colored bottles and stored in a cool dark place.
From DEET and biopesticides, to treated fabric and yard, Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can help keep you safe and reduce the spread of germs if soap and water aren't available. You introduced me to essential oils.
Since youre using water, dont you need a preservative? Your email address will not be published. Thee DIY mosquito repellents are easy to make, effective, and will even save you money. Check out the oil recommendations at the end of this: https://draxe.com/health/ibs-diet-food-cures/. The key is to use a blend specifically created to deter mosquitoes and other bugs. Combine the water, herbs, and cloves.
bug rubiesandradishes Yvonne.
Add vanilla extract if using. A done-for-you blend of essential oils is a cost effective way to use multiple essential oils without buying the individual oils. are clickable links to medically peer-reviewed studies. Lavender oil is a very common ingredient in homemade bug repellents. This is the beauty of using a blend specifically created for keeping bugs away, like Plant Therapys kid-safe Shield Me Blend or Nature Shield Blend. Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever spreading ticks are of special concern to outdoors people and children. When it comes to making a bug spray recipe thats safe on your skin, make sure that youre choosing essential oils that are safe and effective for topical application. DOI: Lee MY.
Most commercial bug repellents can cause health and environmental problems. 2022 Dr. Axe. This post may contain affiliate links. WereBryan and Dena and we LOVE to be outdoors. natural bug repellent Today, many feel that it is almost a crime to spray hazardous chemicals on your skin. Plus, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists garlic oil as a natural tick repellent for use in yards and gardens.
When stocking up on essential oils, look for cedarwood oil. For a DIY indoor/outdoor bug spray, youll need the following: While some homemade bug sprays can help keep bugs away from your plants, others like cinnamon essential oil can cause damage to the plants themselves. Shake before you rub this nourishing oil mixture onto your skin! Glycerin also adds nourishing moisture without weighing down the light spray.
Use citronella candles when youre outdoors for additional protection. If you prefer to use a balm instead of a spray, you can make an excellent homemade balm with a little citronella and lemon eucalyptus oil. To avoid mosquito bites, try to stay indoors at dusk and dawn. 
Learn outdoor skills, like navigation, making campfires, avoiding ticks and bear, and managing water while hiking. I would definitely make the kid-safe version for your nieces and nephews, just to be safe :). 4 Tbs.
My 2 year old has some poriasis spots on his legs that we are working on. Ansari MA, et al. Plus, lavender is usually considered safe for topical use without diluting it.
yankeekitchenninja Add all of the essential oils into a spray bottle, and then add alcohol and shake. Mix 1 part of the essential oil with 10 parts of the witch hazel or oil. Simply combine the witch hazel, apple cider vinegar and essential oils of your choice in an eight ounce glass spray bottle. And 7 Amazing Castile Soap Benefits, Ultimate Natural Mascara Guide: What to Look For & Avoid, 8 Best Natural Face Moisturizers For All Skin Types and Budgets, 8 Best Non Toxic All Natural Shampoo and Conditioner Reviewed, http://www.mccormick.com/Spices-and-Flavors/Extracts-and-Food-Colors/Extracts/Extra-Rich-Pure-Vanilla-Extract, http://mountainroseblog.com/dilutions-conversions/, http://www.learningabouteos.com/index.php/2013/08/06/essential-oil-safety-during-pregnancy/, Healthy Beef and Broccoli (Easy Sheet Pan Recipe), 15 Different Ways to Cook Eggs for Breakfast (Easy, Healthy), How to Make Sourdough French Toast (Easy Recipe), Einkorn Oatmeal Cookies (Chocolate Chip or Raisin), Almond Flour Banana Muffins (Gluten Free). Spray over all portions of the body but avoid repellent in eyes and mouth. Repellent activity of Apiaceae plant essential oils and their constituents against adult German cockroaches. and love your site! repellent bug recipe natural printable comment july leave ~Rachel. Heres how to make candles in yogurt jars! This site is really helpful for checking specific essential oils and their safety around kids and animals (the author is a certified aromatherapist): http://www.learningabouteos.com/. They dislike the smell of allicin, a compound found in garlic. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Where do you get yours? @Dot, how do i know the ingrediants to add to this concoction Kristin is the creator and editor-in-chief of Live Simply. If a recipe calls for citrus oils, neem oil, lemon eucalyptus, clove, or cedarwood oils, you can also add a little lavender oil. how would I find out if it is pet safe?
Is this bug spray ok to spray on small dogs, my pom takes 3 meds per day. I know many recipes include witch hazel as an alternative to vodka. Natural tick repellents and pesticides. Glass is the recommended storage container for essential oil DIYs. Your email address will not be published. Shake the bottle before each application. However, cinnamon oil can cause skin reactions, so be sure to dilute it before using it on your body, or stick to using it in the yard. Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, 10 Natural Ingredients That Repel Mosquitoes, Dominique Fontaine, BSN, RN, HNB-BC, HWNC-BC, 21 Tips for How to Prevent Mosquito Bites. Bring to a boil. When the blend is cool, strain the herbs and them away. Effectiveness of garlic for the control of Ixodes scapularis (Acari: Ixodidae) on residential properties in western Connecticut. We recommend our users to update the browser. 
They dislike the smell of allicin, a compound found in garlic.
Lee HR, et al.
In this post, youll learn how to make homemade insect repellent that actually works. This reduces fine lines, oil, soothes the skin, and protects skin from future damage. Shake well every day for 2-3 weeks. Can You Use Essential Oils for Bug Bites? Can you use plastic bottle? Once the mixture reaches a boil, let it cool down and filter out the herbs. 
Another option is aloe vera gel.
oil of your choice (jojoba, neem, fennel, ect.). That is what I already have. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices.
Do you use natural skin care products and other ingredients such as Theres no shortage of different yoga styles to choose from, but heres Have you ever wondered if swimming in pools treated with chlorine is Foundation makeup has many benefits, specifically helping to smooth out the tone https://draxe.com/beauty/best-sunscreens/, https://draxe.com/health/ibs-diet-food-cures/, How to Get Rid of Jock Itch: 9 Natural Remedies, Try Coconut Oil Pulling for Healthier Teeth and Gums, How to Get Rid of Cellulite 6 Natural Treatments, How to Get Rid of Bags Under the Eyes: 13 Easy, Natural Ways. Seal well, and put it somewhere you wont forget to shake daily.
However, its important to remember that not all essential oils are safe for topical use. One of my favorite sites for essential oil safety is Learning About EOs. Heres a great article with a long list of essential oils to avoid: http://www.learningabouteos.com/index.php/2013/08/06/essential-oil-safety-during-pregnancy/. 
Are children under a year OK? After this tincture has had time to marinate, strain the herbs and keep everything in the refrigerator. Hi I think the Ban the Bugs name has been changed to Shield Me. In under 5 minutes, youll have an easy and affordable DIY bug spray.
tick simplelifemom The easy recipe is budget-friendly, simple to make, and includes only 3 ingredients: witch hazel, oil or glycerin, & a done-for-you blend of essential oils (no need to buy multiple essential oils). Simply mix together all of the ingredients, shake, and spray! (2016). Dilute Essential Oils: Always dilute essential oils before use. Not only are they typically safe for human use, theyre generally effective too. Larvicidal and mosquito repellent action of peppermint (Mentha piperita) oil.
Malaria is typically found in tropical and subtropical climates. Plant Herbs Like Catnip, Rosemary, and Mint: Plant herbs in abundance around your patio and gathering areas during the summer months to deter bugs with their fragrance. My kids hate the stinky bug spray at the stores. Hey Peggy, Great question. These options arent as powerful or long-lasting as picaridin or DEET (common chemicals used in commercial repellents), but they can be a great alternative if you want to go all natural. Crush 1/2 to 1 full cup of these herbs together, then boil them with a cup of water.
The glycerin and oil wont stain clothes when you gently mist your skin and clothing. With the rising use of natural products and homemade solutions, you no longer have to.