DIY: Insect Repellent Essential Oil Blend

This simple blend is perfect for your purse, the car, or as a favor at an outdoor party!  

It's that time of year again when the little buggers come out to attack! Here is a more natural alternative to many of the store bought repellents. If you're not sure what essential oils are, they are basically natural oils usually made by distillation of specific parts of a plant (bark, leaves, stems, etc.).  The resulting oil will have the fragrance and the useful properties of the plant it was extracted from.

Essential oils should not be taken internally. When applied to the skin they should generally be diluted. The recipe shown will make approximately 1 ounce at a 3% dilution.

Aside from the essential oils and witch hazel, you will also need a mini funnel and a one ounce amber colored glass spray bottle (affiliate link) to make this simple recipe.  

• Always be sure to shake the repellent well before using.  
• Test first on a small patch of skin to see if there is a reaction with any of the ingredients.   
• If any irritation occurs wash with soap and water immediately.
• Avoid use near eyes and as with all insect repellents, avoid use when pregnant. 
• Repellent can be sprayed on skin and clothing (But remember there are oils in it!). Reapply as needed, or about every 3 hours, and enjoy keeping the bugs away!​

​Here is one of my favorite "go to" books about aromatherapy (affiliate link):

Please note that essential oils for home health DO NOT replace a doctor or modern day medicine.   However, some can definitely be used to supplement, or, in the case of minor medical issues, be used instead of pharmaceuticals.  

Always use common sense and seek the advice of a medical professional before making any major medical decisions.
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Thanks for visiting!  

Check our our other Essential Oil Remedies & Recipes and our Essential Oils Etc. Pinterest Board for other great uses!

​Sincerely,