Make your own natural mosquito repellent

Using repulsive essential oils, this natural mosquito repellent solution will greatly help.

It’s summer at last, but mosquitos and other biting insects can be annoying! The best way to protect yourself and your family is to choose protective clothing, like long sleeves and pants. Nevertheless some body parts will remain exposed to bites like your neck, hands, ankles, etc.  

If you are looking for a repellant solution other than DEET, Essential oils can be a great option if you want to appreciate the joys of summer.

  Essential oils that work well are:

• Eucalyptus lemon-scented (eucalyptus citriodora)
• Geranium rose (pelargonium graveolens)
• Clove bud (eugenia caryophyllus)
• Peppermint (mentha x piperita)
• Lavender fine (lavandula augustifolia) or Hybrid lavender (lavandula hybrida)

Here is a natural mosquito repellent recipe that has been tested many times with great results.

  It can be made in an oily version or in spray. Please note that it is also possible to add your Essential Oil mix to ½ cup of body lotion + ½ cup of vegetable oil.   Use this ratio to make the desired amount and do a skin test to check for any potential allergies.  

Insect repellant in an oily version

In a 100 ml bottle with a pump, add 30 ml of Neem oil with 30 drops of Lemon-scented eucalyptus essential oil. Add 20 drops of Geranium rose, 10 drops of Clove bud, Peppermint and Lavender or Hybrid lavender. Fill the rest of bottle with a light vegetable oil like grape seed oil. Be careful not to apply this product on your clothes, as oil may stain. Why an oily base, you say? Mosquitos do not like this texture when they land.  

Insect repellant in a spray version

In a glass bottle with a spray cap, mix 50 ml of grain alcohol (Vodka) and add 20 drops of Geranium rose, 10 drops of Lemon-scented eucalyptus, Clove bud, Peppermint, and Lavender or Hybrid lavender. Fill the rest of the bottle with Labrador Tea floral water, lavender floral water or tap water. Before applying, perform a test on an hidden part of clothing and skin. Why a water base, you say? Easy to use and versatile.   Then, apply regularly and repeatedly.   Lavender and Peppermint oils will also sooth the bites on skin.   In case of skin reaction, stop using and consult a health specialist if needed. Have a good day, a good hike and a good evening!