Are You an Insect Magnet? Try This Natural Repellent
I'm on holiday at the moment – and with holidays in the sun, the insects seem to come out. I hate using an artificial insect repellent and covering myself in chemicals. But I also hate being covered in Mosquito bites!
Fortunately, there are some natural alternatives to keep the bugs at bay. Below is a recipe I've experimented with for a chemical free insect repellent, that you can make at home.
This spray on insect repellent works well with vitamin E as the vitamin E is nourishing and protecting, and is good for skin that can become thirsty and dry during the summer heat.
Natural insect repellent recipe
Ingredients:
- 10 – 20 drops of citronella essential oil
- 10 – 20 drops of lemon essential oil
- 10 – 20 drops of lavender essential oil
- 5 mls of carrier oil. Choose from Wheat germ, Vitamin E, avocado, calendula, borage or apricot kernel.
- One small spray bottle or jar for storing the mix.
Add five mls of your chosen carrier oil to the storage jar and then add the oils. The more oils added, the stronger the scent will be. Screw up the lid and shake well to mix. The blend can be massaged onto the skin when needed. If the oil mix is too greasy, then add the oils to a base of distilled witch hazel – you’ll need 3-5 teaspoons.
An alternative way of applying the mix would be too melt 10gs (0.35oz) of Shea butter in a pan and stir in the oils. Once the mix has set and cooled it can be massaged onto the skin in a solid bar form.
The essential oils can also be used individually or alternatively tea tree oil can also be used on its own or in combination with any of the other essential oils listed. However, the scent of tea tree can be rather strong so may not be suited to everyone.
More Natural Ways to Repel Insects on Holiday
Insect bites can turn a relaxing getaway into a frustrating experience, especially if you’re someone who always seems to be the mosquitoes' favourite. Thankfully, nature offers plenty of options to keep bugs at bay without exposing your skin to synthetic chemicals. Beyond homemade sprays, there are many other natural approaches you can experiment with to find what works best for your body and your environment.
Dress Strategically to Avoid Bites
One of the simplest but most effective tactics is your choice of clothing. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colours and tight-fitting clothes. When spending time outdoors in the evening, opt for light-coloured, loose-fitting garments that cover your arms and legs. Fabrics like linen and cotton are ideal in hot climates as they allow your skin to breathe while offering physical protection from bites.
In areas with particularly high mosquito populations, consider wearing clothing treated with permethrin — a natural insecticide derived from chrysanthemums. You can also buy untreated clothing and spray it with a diluted natural insect-repellent mix to gain similar protection.
Essential Oils to Add to Your Travel Kit
In addition to the recipe above, there are other essential oils worth considering as natural bug deterrents. These include:
- Eucalyptus (especially lemon eucalyptus): Recognised by the CDC as an effective natural repellent.
- Patchouli: Not only repels mosquitoes but may also deter lice and flies.
- Geranium: Has a floral scent and is particularly good at repelling ticks.
- Basil: Repels mosquitoes and is gentle on the skin.
When using essential oils on your skin, always dilute them in a carrier oil like the ones listed in your recipe. You can rotate oils based on availability and scent preference.
Natural Scents That Mosquitoes Hate
While humans may enjoy floral or citrus scents, mosquitoes do not. Planting or keeping potted herbs and flowers with mosquito-repelling properties near your accommodation can help create a bite-free zone. Some excellent choices include:
- Citronella grass: This is the source of citronella oil and works well planted in garden beds or pots.
- Lavender: Not only deters insects but also promotes relaxation — perfect for a restful holiday.
- Mint and peppermint: These strong-smelling herbs are disliked by bugs and can be rubbed directly on the skin (in moderation) as a quick deterrent.
Even scattering dried herbs on outdoor tables or placing sachets near sleeping areas can make a difference.
Food and Supplements That Might Help
Some anecdotal evidence suggests that what you eat can influence your attractiveness to mosquitoes. While scientific studies on this are limited, many people report fewer bites after increasing their intake of:
- Garlic: The sulphur compounds released through your skin may deter mosquitoes.
- Apple cider vinegar: A spoonful a day may alter your body odour enough to make you less appealing to bugs.
- Vitamin B1 (thiamine): Some believe it changes the scent your body gives off, making it less attractive to biting insects. It’s worth a try, especially if you’re prone to being bitten often.
While the effectiveness may vary from person to person, none of these pose a risk — and they may support your overall health too.
At-Home Solutions for Soothing Bug Bites
If the bugs manage to get through your defences, there are several natural remedies that can ease the itch and help reduce inflammation:
- Aloe vera gel: Naturally cooling and anti-inflammatory, it’s ideal for sunburn and insect bites alike.
- Baking soda paste: Mix a small amount with water and apply directly to the bite to relieve itching.
- Raw honey: Apply a dab to the bite — its antibacterial properties help prevent infection and soothe irritation.
- Ice: Reduces swelling and numbs the itch temporarily.
These simple remedies are especially useful when you’re travelling and want to avoid pharmaceutical creams or antihistamines.
Indoor Protection Without Harsh Chemicals
If you’re staying somewhere without screens or air conditioning, indoor insect control becomes even more important. Here are some natural ideas to protect your space:
- Use a mosquito net: This remains one of the most effective forms of protection during sleep, especially in tropical areas.
- Burn natural incense: Sticks made with citronella, lemongrass, or sandalwood help keep bugs away while adding a relaxing scent.
- Fans: Mosquitoes are weak fliers. A fan pointed towards your bed or seating area can create enough airflow to keep them from landing on you.
- DIY essential oil diffuser: Add a few drops of lavender, eucalyptus, or citronella oil to water in a diffuser to keep bugs at bay through the night.
What to Avoid
Not all “natural” products are safe. Here are a few cautions to keep in mind:
- Never apply undiluted essential oils directly to your skin. They can cause irritation or sensitisation over time.
- Test any new product on a small patch of skin first. Even natural ingredients can cause allergic reactions in some people.
- Use caution with oils like citrus and bergamot in the sun. These can increase your skin’s sensitivity to UV rays and lead to burns or discolouration.
Finding What Works for You
Everyone’s body chemistry is different, which is why some people never get bitten while others seem like a mosquito buffet. The best way to find the right natural insect repellent is to try a few methods and see what your skin — and the bugs — respond to.
If you’re travelling soon, try packing a few different oils, a small spray bottle, and a carrier oil so you can experiment on the go. You might find that lavender works wonders for you, or that citronella combined with eucalyptus is your best defence. And if you’ve got a tried-and-tested method or clever natural solution, be sure to share it — fellow bite-prone readers will thank you!
NB: Pregnant women should take medical advice before using essential oils.
Do you have a tip for keep bugs at bay? Do mosquitoes seem to choose you over everyone else? Share your tips and stories below!