Make Your Bug Spray

Ah, the eternal battle between humans and tiny, winged vampires. Whether you’re heading into the deep woods or just trying to survive a backyard BBQ, picking the right repellent is key.

I always thought of the idea that learning how to make a Bug Spray yourself, is a huge benefit. Our nature has all the growing plants avaliable that will help keeping these “vampires” away from us.

The most effective Essential Oils that help keeping mosquitos away are:

Eucalyptus

Lemongrass

Citronella

Teatree

Rosemary

Interesting fact: Potted rosemary plants help keep the flies away. Put a few rosemary plants around your kitchen and see the difference it makes.

Good to remember: If you’re also wearing sunscreen, apply the sunscreen first, let it dry for 15 minutes, and then apply the bug spray.

BUG SPRAY INGREDIENTS

In an empty 8 – 10 Oz glass spray bottle mix all these ingredients:

1/2 cup witch hazel

1/2 cup apple cider vinegar (optional)

20 drops citronella essential oil

20 drops lemongrass essential oil

(You can substitute these essential oils with either eucalyptus, teatree, rosemary essential oils. See what works best for you).

Shake the bottle with mixture and spray evenly on all parts of your body except eyes and mouth.

When you make it yourself, you eliminate the “mystery fragrances” and preservatives found in commercial cans. You control the purity of the carrier (like witch hazel or apple cider vinegar) and the quality of the essential oils.