Few things in life are as annoying as creepy-crawlies showing up in your personal space! The bothersome buzzing of mosquitoes in the ear, and the bother that flies and moths create are all better done without. While we completely respect the ecological world and the place of even the smallest of creatures in it, most of us would be happier maintaining a personal distance from them.
Truth is, apart from the minor irritation that bugs and insects cause, they also pose threats to our health at times. In some parts of America, for instance, a certain type of mosquito bite can lead to encephalitis. Other mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue are of course common in Southeast Asia, while the recently popular Zika virus is also transmitted by mosquitoes.
For a long time, people have resorted to the use of strong chemicals and pesticides to keep insects at bay. However, not only are these chemicals harmful for us if inhaled, they also spell disaster for the environment as they contaminate soil, water, and other vegetation.
So how do we protect ourselves from bugs and insects, whilst also not earning the bad karma of harming the environment with harsh chemicals?
Enter essential oils.
Nature’s very own bug repellents
Essential oils that are derived from herbs and shrubs contain the same properties that safeguard plants from insects and bugs that can harm them. The leaves of various plants contain oil-secreting glands that have evolved over millennia to repel parasites and pests.
The essential oils derived from such plants can help repel insects whilst also creating a refreshing ambience with the wonderful aromas they spread. Read on to know which essential oil best combats which type of insect.
For moths and flies
Flies can seriously impair our ability to enjoy a nice picnic or a lovely lunch with their unhygienic presence. They’re particularly annoying during the hot summer months and are even found indoors sitting around bins and then eventually finding their way to food.
Instead of attempting to swat them each time they fly by and be met with failure mostly, try diffusing Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Spearmint, or Lemongrass. In case a diffuser isn’t an option, putting a few drops of these essential oils on some tissue paper can also help.
Moths, of course, are drawn to light and are more likely to trouble us after sunset. It would be strategic to place the diffuser close to the light source to ensure that they keep their distance whilst you enjoy your evenings.
Moths can also cause trouble indoors and especially in wardrobes. Dip cotton balls in Lavender essential oil and place them in drawers and closets to enjoy this soothing fragrance along with the comfort of knowing moths will know better than to venture nearby. You can also use Rosemary, Cedarwood, Thyme, Clove bud, and Patchouli and experiment to create blends that you can use in wardrobes to keep your clothes fresh-smelling and your wardrobes moth-free.
For ants, spiders, and beetles
Ants have a way of miraculously appearing out of nowhere once they detect food. Luckily, Peppermint essential oil is something they really do not appreciate. So keep a spray with a mix of Peppermint essential oil and water handy. If and once ants do make an appearance, spray this mixture in their direction to help them re-route.
Spiders also often like to join a party and ruin our fun. Peppermint, Thyme, Eucalyptus Globulus, and other citrus essential oils can help them steer themselves away from your direction. Placing a couple of drops to cotton balls and placing by windows and room corners can work as a great deterrent!
For mosquitoes
Don’t allow mosquitoes to prevent you from enjoying a cup of tea or reading a book in your garden. Citronella, Lemongrass, Cinnamon bark, Eucalyptus lemon, or Thyme work best for mosquitoes to get the signal to stay away. In fact, Lavender essential oil also works wonders in keeping them away. Diffuse any of these oils or blends containing them to enjoy a peaceful time indoors or outdoors.
Honey bees, wasps, and hornets however, are among the hardest to repel. Remember to avoid using Lavender for bees as the floral scent of this essential oil can have the opposite effect and actually attract them towards you!
Wear your own bug repellent!
While diffusing essential oils is one way of protecting yourself from critters of all kinds, another super effective strategy may be to actually wear it on your person by making your very own, customized anti-bug lotion.
Mosquitoes, for instance, are a bother when one is out on walks or even during vacations. It is hence a good idea to be prepared with a lotion that will protect one from them and other insects.
Combine up to three to four essential oils mentioned above with a carrier lotion base or carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba in the proportion of 1 drop of essential oil to 5 drops of carrier oil or lotion base. Apply to body parts that will remain exposed when you go outdoors to ensure that your pretty-smelling self is able to repel insects and bugs of all kinds.
Remember that since this is a natural formula and not a chemical one, you will need to reapply it every few hours to maintain its efficacy. You may also like to experiment with variations of essential oils to see what works best for you.
Let nothing come in the way of your enjoyment of nature and the outdoors. May the power of essential oils be with you!
Summer Special Offer!
Receive a FREE Citronella Essential Oil & Ceramic Oil Burner when you spend £30 or more online!* The perfect combo for keeping the bugs away whether inside or outside.
*01/07/22-31.07/22. One per customer, whilst stocks last.
