Home Of The Wise

About 7 years ago we moved to a town a little more country than I personally have lived in before. I love it tremendously. The quiet, the bunnies and birds in my yard daily and the farmland I drive by on my way into my neighborhood. It’s all just the right pace for me. All except for the bugs that come with the country living. Ugh, the flies! I honestly thought there was something seriously wrong our first summer here. Our neighborhood facebook page says otherwise. So here I am.

Bugs! I know God has reason for every creature on Earth… but BUGS? Really? Can we go back to the drawing board on this one please?

While we wait on divine intervention, I have armed myself with Mother Nature’s oils. This is one of the most popular questions I get asked.

Is there an oil for repelling (insert bug here)?

There are many oils that are helpful in keeping those nasty critters at bay. Strong smelling oils repel bugs by masking the scents of carbon dioxide and lactic acid in humans, which attract them to your juicy flesh to begin with. You will find that all the oils in my recipe for Bug Off Spray have powerful smells.

Some of my go-to essential oils for warding off bugs include:

1. Eucalyptus: One of the most effective natural repellents, this oil works great against mosquitoes and other flying pests. It has a fresh, uplifting scent that I love, too.
2. Peppermint: Not only is it cooling, but peppermint oil is a strong deterrent for spiders, ants, and mosquitoes. It’s great for keeping your space smelling fresh while keeping bugs away.
3. Lavender: Known for its calming properties, lavender also repels flies, mosquitoes, and other insects. Bonus: it’s gentle enough to use on the skin when properly diluted.
4. Tea Tree: This oil has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, making it a great choice for keeping bugs away and even soothing bug bites after the fact.
5. Citronella: A classic for outdoor use, citronella oil is effective in repelling mosquitoes. It’s a staple in my bug-repellent blends for outdoor gatherings.
6. Patchouli: A lesser-known option, patchouli is great for keeping mosquitoes and moths away, and its earthy scent pairs well with other oils.

I blend a mix of these oils with alcohol free witch hazel and a bit of distilled water to create my Bug Off Spray. A few spritzes before heading outside, and I can enjoy all the beauty of country living—minus the bugs.

Alternatively, you can blend your chosen oils in one of our Home Of The Wise roller bottles with a carrier oil of your choice. Apply it to your pulse points before going outside, just like you would with perfume on your neck and wrists. This will help repel insects by radiating the scent.

Home Of The Wise – Zen RollerSet

Nature really does provide some of the best solutions. What are your favorite ways to keep bugs away naturally?