Common and popular bug sprays can often have synthetic chemicals and pesticides, which while can be effective, but also uncomfortable to use on yourself and your family members. It's a good thing natural bug repellents are easy to make, while being eco-friendly and simple. Here are a few recipes to help keep those pests away!
Plus, all of these products can be found right here in Pomegranate Market!
Mosquitoes
Lemon Eucalyptus Oil
Lemon eucalyptus oil is one of the more well-known natural repellents, with the CDC even approving eucalyptus oils as an effective ingredient in repelling mosquitoes.
Create a mixture that is 1 part lemon eucalyptus to 10 parts sunflower oil or witch hazel. It is cautioned to avoid using on children under the ages of 3.
Source: Healthline
Lavender
Crushed lavender and lavender oil can produce a fragrance that naturally repels mosquitoes. It also has analgesic, antifungal and antiseptic qualities, meaning it can calm and soothe the skin.
Add 2 tablespoons of carrier oil, such as almond or avocado, to a small bottle or jar. Then add 10 to 20 drops of lavender oil. Shake well and apply to skin.
Source: Appalachian Botanical
Ants
Peppermint
Peppermint has been found to help repel against invasive ants. To make the deterrent simply mix 10 to 20 drops of peppermint oil with two cups of water. Spray the mix around the baseboards and windows of your home. Let dry and repeat as needed.
Its important to note that you should keep the peppermint out of reach from pets, especially cats, as they can become very ill if exposed.
Cinnamon Leaf
Compounds found in cinnamon leaf oils found to be effective at killing and repelling ants. This method is straightforward. Simply saturate cotton balls with undiluted cinnamon leaf essential oil. Place the balls in areas which you typically see ants. Replace the cotton balls weekly. Its also import to keep these out of reach from pets as well.
Source: Healthline
gnats
Vinegar + Baking Soda
The tried and true method. Simply combine a cup of water with a tablespoon each of vinegar and baking soda. Spray where gnats seem to be gathering in your house. This is a safe solution to use sparingly around houseplants.
Source: Tree Hugger
Ticks
Essential Oil Blend
Essential oils are a great natural tick repellent, as ticks hate the scent of many of the common oils (scents like lemon, orange, cinnamon, lavender, rose geranium), and avoid latching onto anything that smells like those items. Here is a straightforward recipe to apply to your skin whenever you go out for a hike.
Combine 9 drops of citronella oil, 6 drops of tea tree oil, 6 drops of peppermint oil, and 1 tablespoon of almond or jojoba oil.
Always dilute the solution when applying to your dog. Essential oils are not recommended for use on cats.
Source: Farmers Almanac