All Natural Bug Spray - No DEET (Adult and Child Safe Recipes)
ALL NATURAL BUG SPRAY
(Adult and Child Safe Recipes)
This all natural bug spray is intended for use around the home, or while relaxing outside on warm, buggy nights. Not only do I spray a small amount on myself and my older children while outside, but around where we are sitting to help the area remain bug-free for hours. This particular blend is for use on adults and children over 10 years of age, so please use responsibly. (I have added a KID SAFE version to the end of the article as well). The essential oils can be mixed and matched or eliminated. There are other great bug repellent essential oils, just make sure to read the contraindications prior to use.
Insects, specifically mosquitos, carry many diseases. Mosquitos are known to carry the deadly West Nile virus here on the east coast as well as other mosquito-borne encephalitis diseases arcross the United States. Ticks are known to carry the debilitating Lyme disease, which if left untreated, can affect the joints, heart, and nervous system dramatically. This bug spray contains many essential oils that are used to repel many types of insects. Lemon Euclayptus essential oil helps to repel both mosquitos and ticks for up to 6 hours. Citronella is a natural insect and animal repellant, keeping away mosquitos and other nasty insects (citronella may also deter cats so keep that in mind). Geranium keeps away ticks, leafhoppers, the corn earworm and the small white. Tea Tree Oil is great for deterring ants, flies, and mosquitoes. Peppermint is a natural insecticide and kills and repels mosquitos. Lavender keeps away moths, ticks, fleas, flies, ants, scorpians, and mosquitos; it also disinfects the air. Rosemary deters beetles, snails, slugs, carrot flies, and cabbage loopers. Overall, this mixture is extremely effective and lasts for a long while in the specific area once sprayed.
So, here it is! Enjoy!
Ingredients BUG SPRAY (ages 10+):
- 1 oz Witch Hazel
- 1/2 oz Distilled White Vinegar
- 1/2 oz alcohol (unflavored vodka)
- 7 Drops Citronella Essential Oil (safe for 6+ months when properly diluted)
- 5 Drops Lemon Eucalyptus Essential Oil (do not use on children under 10)
- 5 Drops Tea Tree Essential Oil (safe for 2+ years)
- 4 Drops Geranium Essential Oil (safe or 6+ months)
- 4 Drops Peppermint Essential Oil (do not use on children under 10)
- 4 Drops Lavender Essential Oil (safe for 3+ months)
- 3 Drops Rosemary Essential Oil (not recommended for children under 10)
Mix all ingredients into a spray bottle and shake before use. Spray corners and windowsills in home that bugs may enter or hide. Spray on clothes and body avoiding the eyes and mouth.
Eucalyptus, Rosemary and Peppermint all contain the chemical constituent cineol 1,8 and menthol which trigger slow -- and sometimes dangerous -- breathing in young children. Please avoid spraying this on or around children under the age of 10. Use every 6 hours as needed.
KID SAFE VERSION (Over 2 years):
- 1 oz Witch Hazel
- 1/2 oz Distilled White Vinegar
- 1/2 oz Distilled or Purified Water
- 4 Drops Sweet Orange Essential Oil (safe for 6+ months)
- 4 Drops Citronella Essential Oil (safe for 6+ months when properly diluted)
- 3 Drops Geranium Essential Oil (safe or 6+ months)
- 3 Drops Tea Tree Essential Oil (safe for 2+ years)
- 3 Drops Spearmint Essential Oil (safe for 2+ years)
- 3 Drops Lavender Essential Oil (safe for 3+ months)
- 2 Drops Cedarwood Essential Oil (safe for 2+ years)
Please avoid spraying the KID SAFE version on or around babies under the age of 2. Use every 6 hours as needed.
**Do not use if allergic to any of the ingredients. If irritation occurs, wash thoroughly and discontinue use.
This article is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent disease. This article has not been reviewed by the FDA. Always consult with your primary care physician or naturopathic doctor before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routine.
Warning: Do not use of you have an allergy to any of the ingredients or to the botanical family of any of the ingredients
