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Natural Insect Repellent

by Laura Beans

While no one likes getting bitten by pesky mosquitoes, no one wants to be exposed to the hazardous chemicals that are in commercial insect repellents, either.
DEET—one of the most common chemicals in insecticides—has been cited in recent years to have adverse affects on the central nervous system, including memory dysfunction, in children and pregnant women.
Concerns of West Nile Virus and Lyme disease—transmitted by insects like mosquitos and ticks, and posing threats to small children, the elderly and those with compromised immune systems—are genuine for a lot of families.
But how do you safeguard your loved ones without exposing them to the long-term effects of toxic chemicals like DEET and others in conventional bug sprays and creams?
Use herbs and other essential oils to repel bugs Lemongrass, citronella and eucalyptus contain germicide and pesticide properties, providing effective coverage without toxic qualities of its’ chemical counterparts.
Try aloe vera to treat existing bug bites With powerful anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera can put a stop to the itching, redness and swelling that accompanies insect bites.

DIY Lemongrass Essential Oil Insect Repellent

You will need:
-Lemongrass essential oil
-Spray bottle
-Distilled water
-Witch hazel extract
Directions:

  1. Combine a few drops of lemongrass essential oil into a spray bottle filled with distilled water and witch hazel
  2. Shake to mix
  3. Mist liberally on clothes and body

 
Here are some of our favorite, DEET-free bug sprays:
All Terrain Herbal Armor Natural Insect Repellent This GMO-free, award-winning spray harnesses the power of geranium, cedar and lemongrass oils to keep the bugs away, sans chemicals. allterrainco.com
Bumble and Bee Organic 100% Organic Insect Repellent Made with all 100% USDA certified organic ingredients—including clove, peppermint and rosemary essential oils—this spray is the real deal, protecting against mosquitos, no-see-ums and ticks. bumbleandbee.com
Badger Anti-Bug Balm All-natural and 100% organic, this salve smells fantastic and safely repels bugs without the use of petroleum products, DEET or other chemicals. badgerbalm.com
 

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