Summer is here, and we all want to be outside to enjoy the beautiful weather. If you live somewhere where the bugs are bad, you will understand how hard it can be to do this. Let me help your summer be more enjoyable without getting carried away or eaten alive by all those pesky bugs with this natural bug repellent made with essential oils.
These days outdoor protection can be so scary with all the chemicals found in store-bought repellents. Common side effects include eye irritation, skin reactions, and allergic reactions. I love being able to turn to non-toxic solutions and know that my family and I are not just keeping the chemicals out of our systems and off our bodies, but also using Mother Nature’s gifts to defend against Mother Nature’s annoyances.
My all-time favorite blend for outdoor protection is Terrashield, Lemongrass, and Arborvitae diluted in a spray bottle with Fractionated Coconut Oil.
I love buying doTERRA’s Terrashield Blend in a convenient spray bottle and splitting it into 2 bottles. Once you split it you can then add 10-15 drops each of Lemongrass and Arborvitae to both bottles and top it off with Fractionated Coconut Oil. To apply just spray the areas you would like to protect. It is not necessary but you can also rub it in.
One of my favorite things about this natural repellent is not only that it saves me from the bugs but that it also works for my four-legged family members. I have used this on the dogs, cows, and horse. It is actually quite potent and a little goes a long way. Be sure to always use caution when applying oils to yourself and your pets. You do not want to get this in the eyes or ears and on animals be sure to stay away from the nose as well. If you would like to learn more about essential oil safety be sure to check out the blog post. Essential Oil Safety
Terrashield is a blend of several essential oils including Ylang Ylang, Cedarwood, Catnip, Lemon Eucalyptus, Litsea, Arborvitae, Nootka, and Vanilla Bean Absolute. All these have specific compounds that bugs find repelling which makes for a great toxin-free bug spray. I also love reusing the spray bottle once it is empty. You can buy Terrashield in a 15mL bottle and combine it with the Lemongrass and Arborvitae just like when you add them together in the recipe above. Recycling or reusing makes me happy!
Lemongrass is also a great go-to for repelling insects. Did you know that Citronella and Lemongrass are cousins? They both look very similar and both oils are extracted in the same manner. The main difference is Lemongrass can be used for consumption while Citronella should not. These cousins are both great for helping to ward off against those pesky bugs.
Arborvitae, known as the ‘tree of life’, not only helps repel insects but also helps protect against sun exposure. This oil is already in the Terrashield Blend but I love adding more for extra protection against both the bugs and the sun. You cannot beat a 2 for 1 deal.
Other Great EO’s for Repelling Bugs
If you are on the go or do not have some of these oils at your fingertips here are a few more essential oils that are known to repel bugs.
Cedarwood
Tea Tree
Rosemary
Peppermint
Basil
Eucalyptus
Please be sure to use proper safety when applying essential oils topically. Always dilute with a carrier oil such as Fractionated Coconut Oil.
Interested in learning how to get these doTERRA Essential Oils in your home? Check out how to get them for wholesale price which is 25% OFF by visiting our Membership page.