Bugs are a given when you’re on a tropical island, but nobody likes getting bitten. Unfortunately most heavy-duty bug sprays contains harmful toxins such as DEET, which has been linked to neuronal degeneration in the brain. Luckily you can find some natural alternatives or even better, make your own bug spray.
Here are some simple recipes with just a few natural ingredients that can keep bugs away. It’s best to use a few different oils since each one will work best at keeping away different types of bugs. Also since they are natural they need to be applied very frequently and they are not water resistant!
Coconut Oil Blend
8 drops lemongrass essential oil
4 drops thyme essential oil
4 drops lavender essential oil
4 drops peppermint essential oil
Simply mix the oils together and add about 3 drops of the mixture with about 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and rub into your skin.
Jojoba Oil Blend
10 drops eucalyptus oil
10 drops cedar wood oil
5 drops tea tree oil
5 drops geranium oil
1-ounce jojoba oil
Mix them all together into a small spray bottle and apply directly to skin.
Salad Mix Bug Repellant
If you find yourself out of essential oils try crushing some parsley and basil and mixing it with a little apple cider vinegar before rubbing it onto your skin.
Jacqueline Banks, who grew up in Casa de Campo, is a certified holistic health counselor and busy mother.
Her focus is on helping other busy moms in all stages of motherhood keep themselves and families healthy and happy. She uses natural and organic solutions to solve individual health problems and promote clean living.
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