In Trinidad we are constantly spraying our homes
with DET, Protox and Baygon or any bug spray we could buy to ward off bug bites,
especially from those disease-carrying mosquitoes. We have to keeps
doors close or douse ourselves with OFF or citronella oil before going outside. However
a lot of the insect repellents and bug sprays on the market these days are
composed of chemicals that might pose
risks to people and the environment.
Therefore, in a search of a better alternative and something less harmful to ourselves and gentle on our environment, my husband with some research came up with these two wonderful concoctions. They are both natural, saves us a good bit of money from the store bought products and they REALLY WORK. (They smell good too). This takes just a few minutes to prepare and all that is needed are some natural oils found in the drugstore or herbal shop, filtered water and a spray bottle. Try it! Would love to know if it works for you. See more for directions.
Directions
Natural Bug Spray:
1 20-22oz spray bottle (found in Pricesmart and Peakes, I prefer the latter as they last longer)
3 drops of organic liquid
soap or regular dish washing liquid
15 drops of 100% pure
organic peppermint oil (this is a natural bug repellent oil)
Fill remainder of the
bottle with filtered water
Shake well
Note: This is not to be sprayed on skin.
Natural Insect Repellent:
1 3-4oz spray bottle (those small travel bottles)
10 drops of vitamin E oil
10 drops of cedar wood
oil
10 drops of citronella
oil (
10 drops of clove oil
15 drops of witch hazel or vodka
Fill remainder of the
bottle with filtered water
Shake well before use.
NOTE: This is to be sprayed on your body like OFF. Very nice smelling and gentle on your skin due to the vitamin E oil and Witch Hazel.
Tips and Warnings:
- Women who are pregnant or nursing should consult a health practitioner before using natural oils
- When using natural oils for the first time always perform a patch test to check for allergic reactions.
- Label your homemade products well.
- Store away and out of the reach of small children.
Note: These bug sprays and repellents are good for mosquitoes, flies and any other warm weather bugs.
Resources and Recommended Reading:
- Updated Information Regarding Insect Repellents on CDC.gov
- Natural Mosquito Repellents: Which Natural Mosquito Repellents Work Best? from About.com
- What attracts mosquitoes and how to repel them. from Mercola.com
Like the idea of these natural products...effective, pleasant odour, affordable and easy to prepare!
ReplyDeleteYes I must admit that I too like the idea of the natural products. I heard it smells really nice too! :)
ReplyDeleteThis is much easier than I thought .... Will certainly try it out
ReplyDeleteThere are so many uses for essential oils that are both eco-friendly and cost effective. The NOW brand is a great option for anyone interested in making their lives a lot more toxic free. From cleaners to repellents to diffusers to refresheners the options are infinite. I recommend some research to better understand the uses of the wide array of essential oils and an exploratory spirit to find just what combinations works best for you.
ReplyDeletethis i will try....very convenient
ReplyDelete