Essential Oil Bug Repellent…That Actually Works!

I love being outdoors this time of year – gardening, camping, walking by the river or just relaxing out on the deck!
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But I don’t particularly enjoy the biting insects that seem to think I’m a tasty snack.  I’ve started getting mosquito bites working in the yard over the past couple days, which means it’s time to get out the bug spray.

A few years ago I fell in love with a couple different Essential Oil Bug Repellents.  In fact, I found they actually work better than the bug sprays made with toxic chemicals – like DEET, which I try to avoid!
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Below are my two favorite Essential Oil Bug Repellent recipes that are super easy to make: 

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SUPER SIMPLE SKEETER SPRAY
¼ cup Witch Hazel
30 drops Lavender Oil
20 drops Bergamot Mint Oil
20 drops Clove Bud Oil 

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​SUPER SIX “BUG OFF” SPRAY
¼ cup Witch Hazel
30 drops Lemon Oil
30 drops Bergamot Mint Oil
20 drops Lavender Oil
10 drops Virginia Cedarwood Oil
10 drops Rosemary Oil
10 drops Lemon Eucalyptus Oil (…plain Eucualyptus Oil is fine too!)

DIRECTIONS
Step 1:  Combine all ingredients in a small glass spray bottle.
Step 2:  Shake well before use.
Step 3:  Reapply as needed…I find about every 2 hours works well for me but experiment a little to find what works best for you!
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CLICK HERE TO PRINT RECIPE

Essential oil bug spray is generally safe for most people to use, unless of course you are allergic to one of the ingredients.  Remember, just because a product is made with “natural” ingredients doesn’t mean you can’t have a reaction.  My dermatologist once reminded me that poison ivy is “natural”, but he wouldn’t suggest anyone roll around it or rub it on their skin.  Point well taken…and never forgotten!  With that said, I would recommend testing the spray on a small area before use and consult with your doctor prior to use on small children or pets. 
 
I used essential oils from Mountain Rose Herbs, but DoTerra Essential Oils are a great quality product as well.
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Give these a try and let me know how they work for you…or share your favorite essential oil bug repellent recipe!