Mosquitoes and flies can become a constant nuisance during the warm months, ruining our moments outdoors. Fortunately, there are natural alternatives to keep them away without the need to resort to chemicals that are harmful to our health and the environment. In this article, you will learn how to make a natural insect repellent using lavender oil, citronella oil, and chamomile oil.
Lavender oil
Lavender oil not only has a pleasant scent, but it is also known for its ability to repel insects. To make insect repellent with lavender oil, you will need the following ingredients:
- 10-15 drops of lavender essential oil.
- 30 ml of carrier oil, such as sweet almond oil or coconut oil.
Mix the ingredients in a jar and shake gently to combine. Apply a few drops of the mixture to exposed areas of your body, such as your arms, legs, and neck. Remember that lavender may cause irritation in some people, so it is advisable to perform a sensitivity test on a small area of skin before widespread use.
Lemongrass oil
Lemongrass is a natural ingredient widely used in insect repellents due to its effectiveness in keeping mosquitoes and flies away. Here is a simple recipe for making your own insect repellent with citronella oil:
- 10-15 drops of lemongrass essential oil.
- 30 ml of carrier oil, such as jojoba oil or olive oil.
Mix the ingredients in a jar and shake gently to combine. Apply repellent to exposed areas of your body before going outdoors. Avoid direct contact with eyes and mouth. As with lavender oil, perform a sensitivity test before widespread use.
Chamomile oil