With the news that mosquitoes are testing positive for West Nile Virus in our town, Toronto, Canada, we decided to do a post to offer natural and effective options for keeping these little nasty pests away. It should be noted that everyone’s skin responds differently to essential oils, so trial and error is necessary. However, we are providing the most proven effective, year after year. There is no need for harsh chemical products like Off and Deet.
For more information about West Nile Virus
For more information about the actual symptoms
If you or a family member have any symptoms or unusual fever – please contact your own physician, or go to the nearest clinic.
Recipe 1 – Urban Mask – A lighter yet highly receptive blend of simple ingredients that smell good.
Ingredients:
• 4 oz. clean spray bottle with a fine mist setting (do not use a bottle that previously contained cleaning products or hair products such as hair spray).
• 2 ounces of witch hazel (found at any drugstore)
• 1 ounce of distilled water at room temperature.
• 15 drops Lavender Essential Oil
• 10 drops Geranium Essential Oil (woman’s version*)
• 5 drops Rosemary Essential Oil
*for men use only 5 drops Geranium and add more Rosemary
Directions: Fill the spray bottle with the 1 ounce of distilled water and 2 ounces of witch hazel. (Even though a 4 oz. bottle is suggested, leave about 1 oz. unfilled so you can shake the bottle well between uses.) Then, add the essential oils.
To Use: Shake the bottle before each use. Essential oils do not fully dissolve in water and alcohol and will settle. If you do not shake the bottle, you risk having concentrated droplets of essential oil irritate your skin.
Mist onto your skin and clothing and reapply as necessary. Discontinue use if you feel any sensitivity or develop any form of rash from the repellent. Be careful not to mist delicate fabrics or furniture. Also, do not use around food or beverages.
At our office we keep a bottle of Urban Mask in the fridge.
Recipe 2 – The Country Remedy – When going to more wooded and rural settings.
Ingredients:
• 4 oz. clean spray bottle with a fine mist setting (do not use a bottle that previously contained cleaning products or hair products such as hair spray).
• 3 ounces of distilled water at room temperature.
• 15 drops Citronella Essential Oil
• 10 drops Lavender Essential Oil
• 10 drops Eucalyptus Essential Oil
• 5 drops Lemongrass Essential Oil
Directions: Fill the spray bottle with the 3 ounces of distilled water. (Even though a 4 oz. bottle is suggested, leave about 1 oz. unfilled so you can shake the bottle well between uses.) Then, add the essential oils.
To Use: Shake the bottle before each use. Essential oils do not fully dissolve in water and alcohol and will settle. If you do not shake the bottle, you risk having concentrated droplets of essential oil irritate your skin.
Mist onto your skin and clothing and reapply as necessary. Discontinue use if you feel any sensitivity or develop any form of rash from the repellent. Be careful not to mist delicate fabrics or furniture. Also, do not use around food or beverages.
Time constrained? Try Burt Bees or Kiss My Face brands for natural alternatives.
This is all great – but where the hay do you buy this stuff?
Hi Marcy,
If you are located in the Toronto area – the good news is you can find most of this super easy. I would recommend trying the dollar store or a discount store for the misting bottle and a large box store like Loblaws for the essential oils at a good price. Alternatively, if price is no object – Wholefoods and The Big Carrot will have everything you need.
Good luck and have fun personalizing your bug spray 🙂