Bree’s Bug Spray

breelandwalker:

It has come to my attention that there are folks seeking natural insect repellants, and with summer in full swing, who could blame them! I personally don’t have anything against commercial bug sprays (except for the smell sometimes) and recommend “Off!” to anyone who’s going camping for more than a day. However, if you’re seeking an herbal alternative, here is the recipe I use to keep the mosquitos at bay.

Ingredients: water and isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol, in equal parts, and any of the following essential oils:

• Cedar
• Citronella Java
• Lavender
• Rosemary
• Peppermint
• Pennyroyal
• Lemon
• Anise
• Pine
• Eucalyptus

Combine the water and rubbing alcohol in a spritz bottle. Add several drops of the essential oil(s) of your choice. My favorite combination is Citronella Java, Lavender, Peppermint, and Rosemary. Shake well before use and mist exposed skin liberally. Since this is not a heavy spray, you may need to re-apply if you’re going to be out-of-doors for an extended period of time. A pocket-sized spritz bottle does wonders!

My other secret is a wonderful little product called Badger Balm. It’s an all-natural salve made from beeswax and olive oil, with essential oils of various plants added for different purposes. The product line covers everything from sore feet to diaper rash to chapped hands.

The Foot Balm, which has essential oils of pine, rosemary, and eucalyptus, actually makes an fabulous insect repellant when rubbed onto the skin. It’ll leave you a bit greasy, but it is VERY effective and won’t leave you coughing from accidentally-inhaled fumes.

Enjoy the summer, everyone!

~Bree