"Extremely Basic" Insect Repellent Spray Recipe

This is a very basic recipe combining the potency of essential oils with a water base to repel insects. 

This formulation contains witch hazel floral water to reduce itchiness and glycerin to moisturize the skin. The mixture may feel a little oily at times and you may wish to adjust the percentage of essential oils based on your preference on its efficacy and how it feels on the skin. 

Precaution:

  1. Avoid spraying on the face, broken skin and/or sensitive areas. Do a patch test before using the spray to ensure there is no allergic reaction.
  2. Some essential oils can stain clothing. Test a small spritz on the inner lining of your clothes prior to use.

Materials:

  • Essential oils with insect repelling qualities:
    • Citronella, clove, lemongrass, rosemary, tea tree, cajeput, eucalyptus, cedar, lavender, peppermint and cinnamon

Instructions:

  1. Fill spray bottle full with distilled or boiled water
  2. Pour in witch hazel floral water
  3. Pour in vegetable glycerin
  4. Add 30-50 drops of essential oils
  5. Shake well before use.
  6. Finish the spray within a week

Directions of Use:

  1. Shake bottle vigorously before use.
  2. Spray on clothes or body.
  3. Reapply every 2 to 3 hours for maximum protection.
  4. Finish the bottle within 1 week.

Useful Information:

Insects

Useful Essential Oils with Repelling Qualities

Mosquitoes

Citronella, Eucalyptus, Clove, Lemongrass, Thyme, Cinnamon

Cockroaches

Cypress, Peppermint, Citronella, Tea Tree

Ants

Spearmint, Peppermint, Cedar

Flies

Peppermint, Lemongrass, Sandalwood, Tea Tree, Patchouli, Citronella, Eucalyptus

If you think this recipe is fun, then come join our workshops where you will meet others like you and learn so much more! All our workshops are hands-on learning, not mere demonstrations, so you can be sure to bring back your own DIY handmade products at the end of the session.

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