The past few weeks we have experienced a brutal heat wave. Heat waves equals sprawled out on the back porch trying to cool down to slight avail. More time outside means more bug bites. Mosquitoes have a feeding frenzy on my arms and legs. I even discovered a bite inside my ear (how?) I’ve tried so many different types of store bought bug repellent and nothing seems to work. I’m also a #savetheplanet. I use recyclable bags when grocery shopping, i have a metal straw I carry in my purse at all times. I’m a proud recycler and i’m mad about mason jars!
I love making my own natural skin care. I figured why not try my hand at a DIY bug repellent. The ingredients in the spray require five different essential oils. Here is instructions for a natural bug repellent.
What you will need is
30 drops of geranium essential oil
30 drops of citronella essential oil
20 drops of lemon eucalyptus essential oil
20 drops of lavender essential oil
10 drops of rosemary essential oil
1 tablespoon of Robyn alcohol
1/2 cup of natural witch hazel
1/2 cup of water
1 tablespoon of vegetable glycerin which is optional
one glass spray bottle
Pour in the essential oils in the glass spray bottle and rubbing alcohol and shake well to combine. Add the witch hazel and 1/2 tablespoon of the vegetable glycerin if using this is not necessary but helps everything stay combined, add water and shake. Shake before each use this way the oils and water will come together after natural separation. You can spray this natural bug repellent right before you go outdoors. The spray should be reapplied every six hours to stay protected. I love this natural spray because I know what ingredients are in it because I made it. I used sustainable products and the scent isn’t bad either. I hope you continue to have a safe and bug bite free summer.