May 25, 2009–Today’s Way: There are few things more blood curdling than the whine of an unseen mosquito hovering in the darkness above your bed.  Okay, so maybe there are many things, but that still doesn’t make mosquitoes any less annoying or unwelcome.  And as much as I’d like to gas the little suckers, I’ve found that violence only begets violence.  And DEET may be effective as a repellent, but it has a high cost in the way of environmental disturbance as well as being highly hazardous to humans and animals.  Instead, I formulated a very effective blend of pure essential oils which really fends off the little fiends, as well as their kin; gnats, flies and those little biting no seeums.  Essential oils are usually steam-distilled extracts of herbs, and contain the powerful volatile (meaning, evaporative) oils that makes a particular herb so beneficial, but in an extremely concentrated form.  The herbs/plants chosen in this recipe are known to be a natural repellent to mosquitoes and other flying insects.

You’ll need:

  • 25 Drops Citronella Essential Oil
  • 25 Drops Eucalyptus or Lemon-Eucalyptus Essential Oil
  • 15 Drops Cedarwood Virginia Essential Oil
  • 5 Drops Clove Bud Essential Oil
  • 5 Drops Geranium Essential Oil
  • 5 Drops Peppermint Essential Oil
  • 1/2 Cup Distilled Water and either 1/2 Cup Witch Hazel or 80 Proof Vodka
  • A Small Clean Sprayer Bottle

Directions:  Fill your spray bottle about three quarters full with the water and witch hazel/or vodka combination.  Then, measure your essential oils into the sprayer. Screw on the sprayer, shake vigorously.  Spray as needed.

TIPS:

  • The mixture will probably be cloudy, and will likely separate into oil and water when settled.  Just shake well before each use.
  • Always perform a patch test to make sure the spray does not stain fabrics or carpets.
  • You can use just the essential oils in an aromatherapy diffuser, but the oils should never be used undiluted on the skin.
  • Be smart—don’t spray in your eyes and don’t drink the bug repellent!