Insect Repellent – The Bug Juice Recipe

Summer, as we all know, is a bug season. And mosquitos are one of the most annoying pests whether you are indoor or outdoor. The buzzing sounds are everywhere. We all need an effective insect repellent: either repellent spray, cream, gel, or lotion.

But please, no to DEET. It is the most active chemical ingredient in most insect repellant sprays or lotions. DEET works by making it hard for mosquitos or any biting bugs to smell us. So definitely, it does not kill bugs. But it can cause skin irritations or rashes in some people, especially children. It is advised to use products with only 10 – 30% concentration of DEET. But there are natural insect repellants that we can do in our kitchen for safer use.

Essential Oils to Repel Mosquitos

We truly enjoy the aroma of essential oils. But do you know that mosquitos hate and avoid the scents given off by these different essential oils? Essentials oils are truly beneficial, from the relaxation it gives during a massage to the serenity of the buzzing mosquitos around. Citronella is one of the most famous essential oils that mosquitos dislike. Aside from Citronella, there are still many other natural essential oils that you can use to repel different insects. But behold! There are natural scents that repel mosquitos but are very enticing to other bugs. For example, Lemon balm despises its scent, yet butterflies and bees seem to like it.

Natural Mosquito Repellent Gel

Making natural mosquito repellent may not be easy, but it will benefit you and your family, especially your kids. We can use Lavender, Peppermint, and Lemongrass essential oils because they work well outside with mosquitoes. When these essential oils are mix with aloe vera, it will make a great mosquito repellent.

Ingredients:

• 4oz. Aloe vera Gel
• 1 tbsp. Vegetable Glycerin
• Lavender, Peppermint, and Lemongrass essential oils
• Silicone containers with lid

Mix all the ingredients in a clean mixing dish. Carefully pour on the container and safely cover.

Remember that aloe vera is water-based, and bacteria can easily grow in it at room temperature. Always keep it safe. After applying, place it back on the fridge and always keep it refrigerated when not in use.

Natural Mosquito Repellent Spray

Different oils repel different bugs, so it is important to mix and try a different combination of essential oils to repel several types of bugs.

Ingredients:

• 100 – 110 drops of essentials oils ( 55drops of lemon eucalyptus oil, 15 drops of cedarwood oil, 15 drops of lavender essential oil, and 15 drops of rosemary essential oil)
• 1/2 tsp vodka as a preservative
• 2 tbsp witch hazel
• 2 tbsp of one or a combination of grapeseed oil, neem oil, jojoba oil, almond oil, or olive oil
• small spray bottle

Pour the carrier oil into the spray bottle. Use a larger bottle to make sure there is room for shaking. Add essential oils and shake well before each use.

Natural bug repellent is as effective as commercial bug spray. The only downside is that it is not as long-lasting as commercially made.

Remember that since everyone has different scent preferences, try to experiment with what essential oils best suit or works for you. As always, use extreme caution when using essentials oils on young children, pregnant and nursing mothers. Always do a patch test to check for allergic reactions before using any essential oil for the first time. And it is always best to label homemade products for safety.

Enjoy using your natural essential oils!

Brilliant Massage & Skin

Burlington Vermont