Last week I shared some gardening recipes. This week, I want to help you arm yourself against the worst part of summer: biting insects! Most commercial repellents are made with DEET, which is a potent neurotoxin. Essential oils, on the other hand, are made by plants specifically to help ward off insects. Because they are highly concentrated by steam-distillation, we humans have extra powerful protection. Here is a list of my favourite insect repellents, as well as notes on specific properties where applicable:
Single Oils
Blends
Abode (best as a surface repellent)
Purify (excellent to diffuse)
TerraShield (best for topical use)
Keeping Bugs At Bay
You can easily make your own insect repellent from your favourite oils. But, dōTERRA has several blends that work well for repelling bugs, too. Remember that you can always add a drop of this or that to the pre-made blends as well, to target specific bugs. For example, Patchouli repels black flies, and Geranium repels ticks.
It is very easy to make your own bug repellent. Use the oils shown here, or any combination of repellent oils that you like. Mix with carrier oil for topical use, or mix with water as a clothing-safe repellent. YES you can use this safely on your pets, too! I always made my own fly spray for my horse. |
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TerraShield comes in 2 sizes: 15 mL and a 30 mL spray. This formula is very concentrated! If bugs are really bad you can use it straight, but I like to mix a spray bottle with water and 20 - 50 drops of TerraShield (depending on the size of the bottle and strong you need it). |
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Living in the tropics brings you face to face with the local insect population. I was super thankful for the Abode Concentrated Cleaner, because it helped me deal with an ant infestation AND was instrumental in killing a cockroach that invaded my kitchen! |
Taking Care of Bug Bites
When you DO get bitten by bugs, be assured that there is an oil (or two) for that! Here is a list of oils that help to take the itch and sting away:
Basil
Lavender
Copaiba
Peppermint
Purify
Tea Tree
You can use these topically (on their own or in combination), or you can make up a bug bite relief roller bottle like the recipe here. Pick 4 of your favourites from the list above for the recipe.
Pro tip: purchase empty roller bottles (from Amazon or any aromatherapy accessory company), and save your empties to make remedies for every member of your family (and your friends!).