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DIY Natural Insect Sprays to Stay Bite-Free
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Bit of history facts about bug repellents during WW2. My uncle was in the Army serving in the South Pacific on the islands. He said the bugs were so bad it was hard to sleep. The only bug repellent available was DDT. Stuff today would have been a godsend. They made a paste of the DDT and smeared it on themselves, kept the bugs away. He was in his 80's when he told this to me and he lived beyond 100. He was very active, no harmful effects. Wonder how Rachael Carlson would have reacted upon learning this. Harmful to animals and birds but not to him.
That's of great interest to me that your uncle was not harmed by the DDT. I'm familiar with Rachel Carson and her fight against the use of DDT post-WW II. Your uncle perhaps had good protocols going on in his life -- raised his own food?....good mental/spiritual outlook....hard worker/effective perspiration (eliminate toxins).....no pharmaceutical drugs (stressing his liver)..... Other things? Thanks for sharing. His life was a blessed one.
What is the shelf life on the suggested mixes? (specifically #1)
Why is it "Lemongrass or citronella oil", an not both?
I'm thinking citronella and Lemon Eucalyptus Oil so it will be effective for mosquitos and no-see-em's.
The shelf life will depend on the mix and ingredients. On average, natural bug sprays using essential oils usually last for about 2 years. For essential oils such as lemongrass or citronella, shelf life can be about 2 or so years. However, some formulas may last 1 year, while others may last over 4 years. If your repellent changes color, odor, or consistency, toss it. Store the mix out of direct sunlight and away from heat—a cool, dark, dry place is best. Keep lids on tight.
If there are options for essential oils listed in a recipe, you can certainly try using a combination instead of just one, as long as the called for amount for the total essential oil ingredient (such as 1/2 tsp.) does not go over (so, split that initial amount into two smaller portions).
Do NOT use pennyroyal!!! Pennyroyal oil is HIGHLY toxic! The dried leaves are ok to use, maybe as a sachet for your pocket, and it’s even ok (probably?) for your dog to roll around in it. But NOT the oil—too concentrated! This is true for BOTH American false pennyroyal and European pennyroyal. There are lots of restrictions on its use. You really need to vet your information! People could get hurt.
Oil of pennyroyal should never be taken internally but one half a teaspoon dissolved in a quart of liquid and applied to the skin is not going to kill you.
To add to cautions, citrus oils will cause burn/irritation on your skin if exposed to sunlight
Josie- This is very true, thanks for the reminder.
By the time I buy all these ingredients I feel I might as well just buy the pre-made repellant. Citronella would be the only thing I might have around (I don’t).
Just my take….
If you use essential oils for other purposes you may want to invest in a variety pack. You can get a good quality variety pack of the basic oils for anywhere from $10.00 on up. When my health started failing due to auto immune issues I started removing a lot of commercial products from my home & switched to natural products. My health seems to be a little better and my house is just as clean.