In this article, we’re going to show you a super simple way to keep insects away!

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Chemical insect repellents are expensive and often damage the skin, we use a combination of essential oils, mixed with a carrier oil. This essential oil insect repellent is 100% natural and very simple.

Pour a base oil of Sweet Almond Oil into a 100ml pump bottle. Don’t fill to the top as the following essential oils need to be added.

Homemade Insect Repellent Ingredients:

Sweet almond oil base        100ml 

Add +:

Citronella Oil  (Cymbopogon Nardus)                                  15 drops
Lemon Eucalyptus  (Eucalyptus Citriodora)                  10 drops 
Thyme (Thymus Vulgaris)                                                5 drops
Rosemary (Rosmarinus Officinalis)                                5 drops
Lavender  (Lavandula Angustifolia)                                 10 drops

The quantities are approximate. Adjust according to the preferred strength of the smell. Some people prefer a little more or less Citronella.

Citronella, Lemon and Lavender are essentials and you can mix and match after that. However many people like to use all the oils as each have their own unique abilities to repel different types of insects. Of course, the more oils you use, the more you will have to buy, but remember that they last a long time. Though you cannot go wrong with the 3 main Citronella, Lemon and Lavender.

How does this homemade insect repellent work?

Some essential oils are know for massive deterring insects. Citronella, is a tried and tested oil for repelling biting insects whereas lavender is a well know deterrent for flies and similar flying insects.

This is a natural product free from DEET, parabens and alcohol (which may actually attract biting insects!!). Essential oil insect repellent is actually more effective.

Essential Oils are not very expensive to buy, and last a long time when stored in a cupboard, so can be used to make up further bottles of this mosquito repellent.

Apply product on all areas of exposed skin. It’s better to apply to the whole of the legs, arms and torso as mossies can make their way up trouser legs, shirt sleeves etc.

Re-apply frequently; at least every couple of hours.

Taking Garlic Supplements prior to and during a trip can also be helpful in deterring biting insects. Additionally, reducing or eliminating intake of alcohol and bananas is also considered beneficial.

Use your common sense regarding mosquitoes!! Wear trousers and long sleeved light weight shirts, especially in the evening.

Thanks for reading!