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Homemade Bug Spray (and All-Natural!)
September 8, 2021
Bug bites can be both uncomfortable and dangerous. It’s important to keep the bugs away, but instead of using conventional recipes and showering your body in harmful chemicals, try this homemade bug spray recipe.
Most store-bought bug sprays contain DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide), which has received mixed reviews during research. According to Scientific American:
Duke University pharmacologist Mohamed Abou-Donia, in studies on rats, found that frequent and prolonged DEET exposure led to diffuse brain cell death and behavioral changes, and concluded that humans should stay away from products containing it. But other studies have shown that while a few people have sensitivity to DEET applications, most are unaffected when they use DEET products on a sporadic basis according to the instructions on the label.
Using a homemade and natural bug repellent rids any risk of side effects from using this hazardous chemical. This natural solution is also quick and inexpensive! To make my homemade bug spray, you need witch hazel, apple cider vinegar, a mix of essential oils (eucalyptus, lemongrass, citronella, tea tree or rosemary essential oil are best) and one eight ounce glass spray bottle.
In addition to keeping away bugs, this bug spray also helps kill bacteria and nourish your skin with the powerful benefits of witch hazel, apple cider vinegar and essential oils.
Cosmetic and beauty products often contain witch hazel because of its healthy benefits for the skin. Witch hazel has proven helpful against acne, skin sores, bruises, redness, psoriasis and eczema, oily skin, excess sweating, varicose veins, cracked skin, razor burn, sun damage and so much more.
Apple cider vinegar helps restore the proper pH levels to your skin, therefore smoothing the skin, reducing oiliness and decreasing the appearance of fine lines. The beta-carotene in apple cider vinegar also helps to counter future skin damage.
And unlike conventional brands, this natural bug repellent smells amazing. Try it today to keep the bugs away. Simply combine the witch hazel, apple cider vinegar and essential oils of your choice in an eight ounce glass spray bottle. You can then spray the mixture over your body, avoiding your eyes and mouth.
Print
Homemade Bug Spray
- Total Time: 3 minutes
- Yield: 30 uses 1x
Description
Bug bites can be both uncomfortable and dangerous. It’s important to keep the bugs away, but instead of using conventional recipes and showering your body in harmful chemicals, try this natural bug repellent recipe.
Ingredients
- ½ cup witch hazel
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- 40 drops essential oils (a mix of eucalyptus, lemongrass, citronella, tea tree or rosemary)
- one 8 ounce glass spray bottle
Instructions
- Place witch hazel, apple cider vinegar and essential oils in an 8 ounce glass spray bottle.
- Shake well.
- Spray over all portions of the body but avoid repellent in eyes and mouth.
Notes
In addition to keeping away bugs, this bug spray also helps kill bacteria and nourish your skin with the powerful benefits of witch hazel, apple cider vinegar and essential oils.
- Prep Time: 3 min
- Method: Mixing
