Overview
Essential oils are gaining wide relevance these days mainly because of their health benefits. It is also widely used in aromatherapy for its sensory and invigorating scent. But essential oils are much more than scents and have many properties that can be used for many different purposes. One such use of essential oils is to repel bugs and insects. You can use essential oils to keep pesky bugs away. Using essential oil is one of the most natural solutions for repelling bugs. You can easily make DIY sprays at home using simple ingredients that are also natural.
Essential oils contain antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antifungal properties that help in repelling insects. This article aims to discuss essential oils that can be used to repel bugs. Also, using essential oils is very easy and convenient. The article discusses the uses and benefits of essential oils as a bug repellent.
Continue to read to learn more about essential oil bug repellents.
Why Choose Essential Oils To Repel Insects?
1. Natural and Chemical-free:
Essential oils are plant extracts and, thus, are natural oils that are free from any synthetics, chemicals, or toxins. The conventional bug repellents that are available in the market contain synthetic ingredients and can have a negative impact on human health as well as the environment.
On the other hand, essential oils being natural products have no such adverse impacts. It is considered safe on clothing as well as skin. It is an eco-friendly option that can be used against bugs.
2. Amazing Aroma:
Essential oils have a delightful aroma. It has different categories of scents, including citrusy, fruity, floral, woody, earthy, etc. This means that using essential oils as bug repellents means no more pungent and overpowering smell of the commercial products. The natural bug repellent will also have fresh and natural scents that are usually loved by everyone and are also mild.
Safe to Use:
Essential oils being natural oils, are safe to use. Also, it is safe for all age groups, including children and elderly people. Though, keep in mind that if you are using essential oils for topical application, then always dilute the essential oils with a carrier oil or even any cream or lotion. Also, it is advised to follow proper guidelines before using essential oils as a bug repellent.
What Are Some Of The Best Essential Oils That Help In Repelling Bugs? | Essential Oils That Repel Bugs
1. Citronella Oil (Cymbopogon Nardus)
Citronella oil is perhaps one of the most well-known essential oils used as a bug repellent. Its distinct lemony scent acts as a potent deterrent against mosquitoes and other flying insects. Citronella contains bug-repellent compounds like citronellal, citronellol, geraniol, citral, etc.
It is also a popular ingredient when it comes to natural pest control. It can also be used in your kitchen to get rid of moths as well as cockroaches. Citronella candles are a popular choice for outdoor gatherings as they not only repel bugs but also create a pleasant ambiance.
2. Peppermint Essential Oil (Mentha Piperita)
Peppermint oil not only keeps bugs at bay but also provides a refreshing and cooling sensation. Its strong aroma effectively repels ants, spiders, and other crawling insects. Additionally, peppermint oil can be used as a natural deterrent to keep mice and rodents away.
It is considered a holy grail when it comes to natural solutions for pest repellents. Peppermint is rich in menthol content that is very overwhelming for insects and thus keeps them away. You can diffuse this oil around your surrounding for better protection against insects and bugs.
3. Eucalyptus Oil (Eucalyptus Globulus)
Eucalyptus oil is a powerful insect repellent, particularly effective against mosquitoes and ticks. It contains a compound called cineole, which is known for its bug-repelling properties. Eucalyptus oil is often used in combination with other essential oils to create a potent bug-repellent blend. It is one of the best natural pest repellents.
4. Eucalyptus Citriodora (Eucalyptus Citriodora)
Eucalyptus Citriodora essential oil also referred to as lemon eucalyptus essential oil, is enriched with citronellal, and this compound releases a refreshing lemon-like aroma that insects simply can't stand. The oil of lemon eucalyptus contains natural insecticidal effects. Embrace the outdoors without worry as you bask in the soothing scent of lemon eucalyptus oil, keeping those pesky insects at bay.
5. Lavender Essential Oil (Lavandula Angustifolia)
Lavender oil is not just renowned for its calming effects; it also works wonders as an insect repellent. Its sweet and floral aroma is pleasing to humans but detested by mosquitoes, moths, and flies. Lavender oil is an excellent choice for creating a bug-free environment indoors and outdoors. It contains compounds like linalool and linalyl acetate, which secrets a pleasant floral aroma, but this is unpleasant for insects and thus repels them.
6. Geranium Essential Oil (Pelargonium Graveolens)
Geranium oil possesses natural insect-repelling properties, particularly effective against mosquitoes and ticks. Its floral and rosy scent adds a pleasant touch to your bug-repellent blends. It contains citronellol and geraniol compound that releases a floral scent that repels bugs. Geranium oil can also help promote relaxation and balance.
7. Lemongrass Essential Oil (Cymbopogon Citratus)
Lemongrass oil is known for its fresh, lemony aroma and its ability to keep mosquitoes and other bugs at bay. Its high citral content makes it a potent natural repellent, making it a popular choice for outdoor activities and gardening. This essential oil is effective, especially against mosquitoes, flies, bees, and wasps. It has a very great aroma which makes it better than the pungent aroma of the commercial bug repellents available at stores.
8. Cedarwood Essential Oil (Cedrus Atlantica)
Cedarwood oil has a warm and woody aroma that repels various insects, including moths, ants, and fleas. It can be used indoors as well as in outdoor spaces to create a bug-free environment. It releases a strong woody aroma that helps repel insects like mosquitoes, ants, etc.
9. Catnip Oil (Nepeta Cataria)
Catnip oil is renowned for its effectiveness in repelling mosquitoes. It contains nepetalactone, a compound that insects find repulsive.
10. Basil Oil (Ocimum Basilicum)
Basil oil not only adds a pleasant and herbaceous scent but also acts as a bug-repellent. It can help keep flies, mosquitoes, and other insects at bay while offering a refreshing atmosphere.
11. Clove Bud Oil (Syzygium Aromaticum)
Clove bud oil is known for its warm and spicy aroma, which effectively deters mosquitoes and other flying insects. It is one of the most effective essential oils, as its potent properties make it an excellent addition to bug-repellent blends.
12. Patchouli Oil (Pogostemon Cablin)
Patchouli oil has a distinct earthy and musky scent that helps repel insects. It can also help soothe and relax the mind, making it a popular choice for aromatherapy blends.
13. Pine Oil (Pinus Sylvestris)
Pine oil possesses a fresh and invigorating scent that keeps bugs away while bringing the essence of nature indoors. It's an ideal addition to diffusers and bug-repellent sprays.
14, Thyme Oil (Thymus Vulgaris)
Thyme oil has potent insecticidal properties that make it a valuable addition to bug-repellent blends. Its herbaceous scent adds a delightful touch to natural bug deterrents.
15. Vetiver Essential Oil for Bugs (Vetiveria Zizanioides)
Vetiver oil has a rich, earthy aroma and is known for its bug-repelling abilities. It's particularly effective against termites, making it useful for protecting wooden furniture and structures.
16. Tea Tree Essential Oil (Melaleuca Alternifolia)
Tea tree oil is one of the most effective insect repellents as it contains many unique properties. It contains anti-parasitic properties that make this oil on the list. It is rich in a terpenes-4-ol compound that repels insects like fleas, fruit flies, lice, mosquitoes, ticks, etc.
What Are Some Benefits Of Using Essential Oils As Insect Repellent?
- Eco-Friendly: Essential oils come from renewable plant sources, making them eco-friendly alternatives to chemical-based repellents that can harm the environment.
- Versatility: Essential oils can be used in various forms, including sprays, diffusers, candles, and topical applications, providing flexibility in bug-repelling methods.
- Aromatherapy Benefits: Many essential oils used in bug repellents offer aromatherapeutic benefits, promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and uplifting the mood.
- Personalization: With a wide range of essential oils available, you can create personalized bug-repellent blends tailored to your preferences and needs.
- Cost-Effective: Essential oils are concentrated, and a little goes a long way, making them cost-effective in the long run compared to commercial repellents.
How To Use Essential Oil Bug Repellents?
1. Topical Application
One of the most common methods of using essential oil bug repellents is through topical application. However, it's crucial to dilute the essential oils properly with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or jojoba oil, to avoid skin irritation. A general rule of thumb is to use about 10-15 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil.
2. Diffusion
Another effective way to enjoy the bug-repelling benefits of essential oils is through diffusion. Use a diffuser to disperse the aroma of essential oils throughout your living space, creating a bug-free zone indoors.
3. Homemade Bug Repellent Sprays
You can also create your own bug-repellent sprays by combining essential oils with water and a natural emulsifier such as witch hazel. Simply mix the ingredients in a spray bottle and apply them to your skin and clothing before heading outdoors.
DIY Bug Repellent Essential Oil Blend Recipes | DIY Essential Oil Bug Sprays
Recipe #1 - Refreshing Citrus Bug Spray
Ingredients
- 1 cup distilled water
- 2 tablespoons witch hazel
- 10 drops Citronella Oil
- 5 drops of Lemon Oil
- 5 drops of Orange Oil
- 3 drops of clove oil
Instructions
Mix the distilled water and witch hazel in a spray bottle. Add the essential oils to the mixture and shake well before each use. Spray the solution on exposed skin and clothing before heading outdoors. The citrusy scent will deter mosquitoes and other insects while leaving you feeling refreshed.
Recipe #2 - Herbal Garden Natural Mosquito Repellent Spray
Ingredients
- 1 cup distilled water
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 8 drops of Lavender Oil
- 6 drops Rosemary Oil
- 4 drops Peppermint Oil
Instructions
Combine the distilled water and apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle. Add the essential oils to the mixture and shake well. Spray the blend on your skin and clothing before outdoor activities. The herbal aroma will keep bugs away while providing a pleasant gardening experience.
Recipe #3 - Woodsy Forest Natural Insect Repellent
Ingredients
- 1 cup distilled water
- 2 tablespoons vodka (acts as a natural preservative)
- 10 drops Cedarwood Oil
- 8 drops Pine Oil
- 5 drops of Vetiver Oil
Instructions
Mix the distilled water and vodka in a spray bottle. Add the essential oils to the mixture and shake well before each use. Spray the solution on your skin and clothing for a woodsy bug repellent experience that evokes the essence of the forest.
Recipe #4 - Floral Serenity Spray
Ingredients
- 1 cup distilled water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable glycerin (acts as an emulsifier)
- 8 drops of Geranium Oil
- 6 drops Ylang Ylang Oil
- 4 drops of Lavender Oil
- 3 drops cinnamon oil
- 10 ml glass spray bottle
Instructions
Combine the distilled water and vegetable glycerin in a spray bottle. Add the essential oils to the mixture and shake well. Spray the blend on your skin and clothing for a bug-repelling experience with a calming and floral aroma.
Recipe #5 - Minty Fresh Spray
Ingredients
- 1 cup distilled water
- 2 tablespoons aloe vera gel (for skin-soothing properties)
- 8 drops Peppermint Oil
- 6 drops Spearmint Oil
- 4 drops of Lemongrass Oil
Instructions
Mix the distilled water and aloe vera gel in a spray bottle. Add the essential oils to the mixture and shake well before each use. Spray onto your skin and clothing for a minty fresh bug repellent experience. It is also effective for sensitive skin types.
Risks and Precautions
- Dilution: Always dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil like fractionated coconut oil, sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, etc., before applying directly to the skin.
- Patch Test: Before using any essential oil bug repellent, conduct a patch test on a small area of your skin to check for any allergic reactions.
- Avoid Contact with Eyes: Keep essential oils away from your eyes and other sensitive areas of your body.
- Avoid Ingestion: Essential oils are for external use only and should not be ingested.
- Proper Storage: Store essential oils in dark glass bottles in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
- Consult a Professional: If you have any health concerns or are pregnant, consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to protecting ourselves from the nuisance of bug bites, essential oil bug repellents emerge as a well-known natural and effective solution. These oils not only ward off mosquitoes and other pesky insects but also provide bug bite relief for those unfortunate encounters with buzzing nuisances.
The power of essential oils to repel bugs lies in their natural compounds that insects find repulsive. Citronella, lemon, eucalyptus, lavender, geranium, and lemongrass are among the top essential oils to use for creating bug-repellent blends. Their pleasant scents also add an inviting aroma to the air, making outdoor activities more enjoyable without the bothersome presence of bugs.
For those with sensitive skin or those looking for a gentler option, essential oil bug-repellent sprays can be crafted with a mix of oil and water or combined with soothing ingredients like aloe vera gel. This ensures bug protection without causing irritation to delicate skin.
Whether you're strolling through the woods, tending to your garden, or enjoying a summer picnic, having an essential oil bug repellent handy can make all the difference in your outdoor experience. Bid farewell to mosquito bites, bug bites, and bed bugs with these natural solutions that not only protect but also provide the benefits of aromatherapy.
So, next time you plan an outdoor adventure, be sure to arm yourself with the power of essential oil bug repellents and enjoy a bug-free, pleasant journey without compromising on your health or the environment. Embrace the wonders of nature and bid adieu to those bothersome bugs with the strength and allure of essential oils. Happy bug-repelling!
