The following information is shared in the spirit of promoting personal health and well-being. It goes without saying you should always do your own research and consult with your health care practitioner for any health concerns you may have.
This year seems to be particularly bad for bugs here in cottage country. Some people are bothered by them more than others (like me), but even my husband who rarely gets bitten has complained about the blackflies and mosquitoes this season so they must be worse! There are many things you can do to keep these biting flies away. Wide brim hats, bug jackets, long sleeves and pants, unscented soaps and shampoos, avoid eating sweets and fruits, eating lots of wild leeks, garlic and onions, not showering, staying inside all season…. Obviously some of these methods would be less personally or socially acceptable than others! Deet repellents are effective but they have a lot of negative side effects as well so I thought I would share my home remedy for insect repellent.
Herbal Bug-Off
- 1C witch hazel
- 1T apple cider vinegar
- 1T citronella essential oil
- 1/2t lavender essential oil
- 1/4t eucalyptus essential oil
- 1/4t tea tree essential oil
- 1/4t peppermint essential oil
- 1/4t lemongrass essential oil
- 3/4t evening primrose, avocado or olive oil
Mix and pour into a spray bottle. Always mix/shake well before applying. Apply small quantities frequently on exposed skin. Spray into hands to apply to face. Ingredients can be adjusted to your liking i.e. more base oil or more/less of a particular essential oil. Other essential oils like basil, rosemary, and clary sage can be added or substituted for any of the 1/4t measured essential oils. All of these essential oils are digusting to bugs!
If you do get bitten, ice and a past of baking soda and water will help soothe the itch and reduce swelling. As much as I dislike these biting insects I try to remember how important they are. Many are pollinators and are a vital food source for many other creatures. However that doesn’t stop me from squashing them whenever they try to bite me!