How to Make Organic Mosquito Repellent

mosquito image by Daniel Wiedemann from Fotolia.com

Most commercial mosquito repellents contain the insecticide DEET. Although DEET is an effective mosquito spray, it is, according to Naturodoc.com, harmful to paint, rayon, spandex and plastic. It can also enter the bloodstream and cause rashes, muscle spasms, nausea and other side effects. Organic, natural mosquito repellents based on essential oils do not have these side effects, making them better for your health and your gear.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Essential oils
190 proof grain alcohol
Water
Jar
Spray bottle

Step 1

Obtain organic essential oils that repel mosquitoes. Mother Earth News lists "basil, cedarwood, citronella, juniper, lemon, myrrh, palmarosa, pine, rose geranium and... rosemary" as mosquito-repellent oils. Nature Doc adds bergamot, eucalyptus, lavender, lemongrass, peppermint and pennyroyal to the list of insect repellent oils. You can use a single oil or several.

Step 2

Mix 2/3 cup 190 proof grain alcohol with 1/3 cup water in a jar with a lid that fits tightly. Shake to mix.

Step 3

Place 2 1/2 tsp. essential oil in the jar, cap it and shake the mixture thoroughly.

Step 4

Pour the mosquito repellent into a spray bottle. Spray it on any exposed skin.

Tips & Warnings

Do not spray this mixture near an open flame, as the alcohol content will make it highly flammable.

Article Written By Isaiah David

Isaiah David is a freelance writer and musician living in Portland, Ore. He has over five years experience as a professional writer and has been published on various online outlets. He holds a degree in creative writing from the University of Michigan.

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