Making Insect Repellent

Protection from insects can be extremely difficult, especially in hot weather. A lot of people are allergic to mosquitoes. Mosquito’s bites will often make a sore; this is more often true for children. Mosquitoes can also carry diseases like West Nile Virus, Encephalitis, Dengue Fever, Malaria and Yellow Fever.  Besides it is just not fun to be out with insects, if you don’t have the proper protection. Even if you are not going to be in the heat with insects, you should stay equipped with an insect repellent so you are prepared when you run into these irritating creatures.

     There are many formulas a person can use when making an insect repellent. Creating an insect relent entails diluting different essential oil that insects find unpleasant or which confuses them. Essential oils don’t mix with water, so they will need to be mixed with other oils or an alcohol that is safe for your skin. Essential oils are potent and could cause skin irritation or another reaction, so don’t use too much. If you are pregnant or nursing you should not apply any type of insect repellent, until you have gotten a doctors approval. 

     You will have to combine different insect-repelling natural oils to produce the most effective repellent possible, because different insects are deterred by different chemicals. If you are going to make your insect repellent in large batches, then it is a good rule of thumb is to mix it so there is 5-10% essential oil. Mix 1 part essential oil with 10-25 parts carrier oil or alcohol. To make a smaller amount, you should use 10-25 drops of essential oil and 2 tablespoons of a carrier oil or alcohol.

Some essential oils that work well against biting insects are:

Cinnamon oil (mosquitoes), Lemon Eucalyptus or Regular Eucalyptus oil (mosquitoes, ticks, and lice), Citronella oil (mosquitoes and biting flies), Castor oil (mosquitoes), Orange oil (fleas), Rose Geranium (ticks and lice)

Some skin safe carrier oils and alcohols are olive oil, sunflower oil, any type of cooking oil, witch hazel, and vodka.

      Combine the essential oils with the carrier oil or alcohol. Spray or rub the mixture on your skin or clothing, avoiding your eyes. After about an hour, you will need to re-apply the product. You will also have to re-apply it after swimming or exercising. The unused repellent should be stored in a dark container, away from heat and sunlight. You can also change the consistency of the repellent by adding some Aloe Vera Gel.