Natural Bug Repellent Recipes

During the summertime bugs can ruin a nice evening or make your day uncomfortable- especially mesquites (carriers of the West Nile virus in North America). These days many of the bug sprays contain such harsh chemicals it’s nice to a safe option. Below I have listed a few natural bug repellent recipes that you can make yourself and use for when you go hiking, kayaking, camping, or just hanging outdoors with the kids. The natural bug repellent is safe and effective, plus it costs much less to make it than to buy it.

Basically, these natural bug repellents are great home remedies that involves diluting essential oils that the insects find distasteful when mixed with other oils or to alcohol. It's important to use an oil or alcohol that is safe for your skin, especially if you are going to be using it on children. Follow the recipe as close as you can because the oils are potent and could cause skin irritation or another reaction if you use too much.

A basic rule of thumb is to mix the repellent so it's 5-10% essential oil, so mix 1 part essential oil with 10-20 parts carrier oil or alcohol.

Essential oil clean scent insect repellent:

4 drops eucalyptus essential oil
4 drops lavender essential oil
4 drops rosemary essential oil
4 drops tea tree essential oil

Mix well with about 2 ounces of witch hazel and 8 ounces of water. You can place the mixture in a small spray bottle or dark container. Dab or spray onto wrists neck, knees, etc.

Essential oil catnip insect repellent:

1/4-1/2 tsp. (1.25 - 2.5 ml.) of essential oil of catnip (Nepata cataria)
1 cup of isopropyl alcohol
1 cup of water
Mix well together and spritz. Should be kept away from cats!

Essential oil insect repellent-lotion:

2 ounces distilled water
2 ounces olive oil
120 drops essential citronella oil.

Put the water into a deep mixing bowl, and using a wire whip, begin beating quickly while slowly drizzling in the olive oil. After oil is mixed into the distilled water, stir in the citronella or other essential oil of your choice.

Once you have made your natural bug repellent rub or spray the natural insect repellent onto skin or clothing, using care to avoid the sensitive eye area. You'll need to re-apply the natural product after about an hour or after swimming or exercise. Unused natural insect repellent may be stored in a dark bottle, away from heat or sunlight.