Are you tired of getting bug bites when you go outside in the summer? Bugs can be really annoying, but there are some things you can do to keep them away. One way is to use essential oils. These oils come from plants and have a smell that bugs don’t like. Some of the best essential oils for keeping bugs away are lemongrass, citronella, and geranium. You can apply these oils to your skin as a body oil or spray, or you can use candles that contain these oils. Another option is to plant bug-repelling plants in your backyard. Just remember, while essential oils can help, it’s still important to use other forms of bug protection, especially if you’re in an area with disease-carrying insects. So next time you have a backyard BBQ, try using essential oils to keep the bugs at bay!
Top Essential Oils for Keeping Bugs at Bay
Introduction
When you’re playing outside or going on adventures, bugs can be a big bother. They can bite and leave itchy bumps on your skin. But did you know that there are essential oils that can help keep bugs away? These oils come from plants and have natural scents that bugs don’t like. In this article, we’ll explore the best essential oils for keeping bugs at bay and learn how to use them to stay bug-free!
What kind of essential oils are best for keeping bugs away?
Plants are very smart! They have evolved to produce fragrant compounds that protect them from insects. These compounds are preserved in essential oils, which are made from plants. When you use high-quality essential oils, they contain these protective compounds that bugs don’t like.
Essential oils have different chemical constituents, which are their special ingredients. Some of these ingredients are more effective against insects than others. That’s why some essential oils are better at keeping bugs away than others.
Here are some commonly available essential oils that you can use to keep bugs at bay:
Lemongrass
Lemongrass is a type of grass that has a fresh, lemony scent. Bugs don’t like this smell, so using lemongrass essential oil can help keep them away. It’s a great oil to use during summer when bugs are most active.
Citronella
Have you ever heard of citronella candles? They have a strong, citrusy smell that bugs don’t like. Citronella essential oil comes from a plant called the citronella grass. You can use it in the same way as lemongrass oil to repel bugs.
Geranium
Geranium essential oil comes from the geranium plant. It has a floral scent that bugs find unpleasant. Using geranium oil can help keep bugs away and make you smell nice at the same time!
Mint
Mint is a plant with a refreshing scent that bugs don’t like. Peppermint and spearmint essential oils can both be used to repel bugs. Plus, mint oils can make you feel cool and refreshed on hot summer days!
Basil
Basil isn’t just a tasty herb for cooking; it can also keep bugs away! Basil essential oil has a strong, herbal scent that bugs find unappealing. You can use basil oil to protect yourself from bug bites.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a colorful spice that can be used to make curry. But did you know it can also repel bugs? Turmeric essential oil has a warm, earthy scent that bugs don’t like. It’s a great oil to use if you enjoy outdoor activities.
Vetiver
Vetiver essential oil comes from the roots of a grass called vetiver. It has a deep, woody scent that bugs find unpleasant. Vetiver oil stays on your skin for a long time, making it effective at repelling bugs.
How you should (and shouldn’t) use them
Now that you know which essential oils to use, let’s talk about how to use them to keep bugs away.
DO: Apply them as a body oil or spray. You can make your own bug repellent by mixing a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil, like coconut or jojoba oil. Then, apply the mixture to your skin. You can also make a spray by adding a few drops of oil to water in a spray bottle. Just be sure to shake it well before using.
Remember, essential oils can be strong, so it’s important to dilute them before applying to your skin. Also, some oils can irritate your skin if not properly diluted, especially when you’re exposed to sunlight. So, make sure to buy high-quality essential oils or consult an adult before using them.
DO: Go the candle route. If you’re sitting outside for a picnic or having a backyard dinner, you can use candles that contain essential oils to repel bugs. Place a few candles around the seating area to keep bugs away.
DO harness the power of plants themselves. Another way to repel bugs is by planting bug-repelling plants in your garden. Some plants, like citronella grass, lavender, and marigolds, naturally repel bugs. By placing these plants near where you like to hang out, you can keep bugs at bay.
DON’T rely on them for total protection. While essential oils can help keep bugs away, they shouldn’t be your only form of protection. If you’re in an area with lots of bugs or insect-borne diseases, it’s important to also use other bug repellents, like sprays with DEET or picaridin. Make sure to follow the recommendations of experts and use the right repellents for your situation.
Conclusion
Essential oils can be a great natural way to keep bugs at bay. Lemongrass, citronella, geranium, mint, basil, turmeric, and vetiver are all essential oils that bugs don’t like. You can use them as body oils or sprays to repel bugs. Just remember that while essential oils are helpful, they shouldn’t be your only form of bug protection. Make sure to also use other bug repellents and take necessary precautions to stay bug-free. Enjoy your time outdoors without the annoyance of bug bites!
