Developing a potent natural fly and mosquito repellent can assist you in keeping these pesky insects at bay without the use of harmful chemicals. Here’s a simple recipe that makes use of essential oils known for their insect-repelling properties.:
Natural Essential Oil Fly and Mosquito Repellent Spray
Ingredients:
- 1 cup distilled water
- 2 tablespoons witch hazel or vodka (acts as an emulsifier)
- 15-20 drops of essential oils (choose from the options below)
- Citronella
- Lemon eucalyptus
- Lavender
- Peppermint
- Eucalyptus
- Lemongrass
- Tea tree
Instructions:
- Choose Your Essential Oils: Select 2 or 3 essential oils from the list above. These oils have strong insect-repelling properties and can work well together to create an effective repellent blend.
- Prepare the Spray Bottle: Use a clean and empty spray bottle to make the repellent. It’s best to use a dark-colored glass bottle to protect the essential oils from sunlight.
- Mix the Ingredients: In the spray bottle, combine 1 cup of distilled water with 2 tablespoons of witch hazel or vodka. These ingredients help to disperse the essential oils evenly in the mixture.
- Add the Essential Oils: Add 15-20 drops of your chosen essential oils to the water mixture. You can use a single oil or create a blend of oils for a more complex and effective repellent.
- Shake Well: Close the spray bottle and give it a good shake to ensure that the essential oils are well mixed with the water and witch hazel or vodka.
- Test and Adjust: Before applying the repellent to your skin or clothing, perform a patch test on a small area to make sure you don’t have any adverse reactions to the oils. If everything is fine, proceed to the next step.
- Application: Spray the repellent onto your exposed skin, clothing, and around your living area to create a barrier against flies and mosquitoes. Be sure to avoid contact with your eyes and mouth.
- Reapplication: Natural repellents may need to be reapplied more frequently than chemical repellents. Reapply the spray every 1-2 hours, especially if you’re sweating or spending time outdoors.
Additional Tips:
- Keep the spray bottle stored in a cool, dark place to preserve the potency of the essential oils.
- If you’re pregnant, nursing, or have allergies, consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils.
- Essential oils can be strong, so avoid using too much to prevent skin irritation. Start with a lower number of drops and adjust as needed.
Keep in mind that, while natural repellents can be effective, they may not provide the same level of protection as commercial chemical repellents. It’s also a good idea to combine mosquito repellent use with other preventive measures, such as wearing protective clothing and removing standing water where mosquitoes breed.