Mosquito bites aren’t fun, and if you enjoy being outdoors during the summer months, protection from mosquitoes is important.
Mosquitoes are active in Ontario from about May-September. They are annoying, and their bites can cause itching and swelling. This can also lead to infection and scarring you pick or scratch at the bite.
Other biting insects are black flies, and deer and horse flies. These bites actually hurt! And sometimes bleeding occurs at the site.
Another annoying bug bite comes from little midges, or commonly called no-see-ums. You may not see them, but you may notice many small, itchy bumps on your skin.
So how do you protect yourself and family from being eaten while outdoors? Combat them with natural essential oils.
I am not a fan of chemical sprays such as Off, or DEET, because the chemicals are harmful to us humans too, especially young ones.
Essential oils really work and they are very handy in deterring insects from spoiling your summer.
Mosquitos especially hate: eucalyptus, citronella, lavender, and tea tree oil.
In addition: clove, peppermint, thyme, rosemary, lemongrass.
Here are are few things you can DIY.
DIY Mosquito Spray
I like to combine tea tree oil with lavender for my spray. The lavender helps to soothe your skin of any bites as well.
In a glass spray bottle add: 1 part essential oils, to 10 parts water or witch hazel.
This is safe to spray on your body and clothes. Be sure to reapply every hour or so.
DIY Mosquito Diffuser Blend
This diffuser blend can be used while you are outside. Many cool mist diffusers are battery operated, which is handy when camping. My favourite recipe combines eucalyptus and citronella oil. It smells lovely to us, but the mozzies will not come near!
Fill your diffuser with water. Add 4 drops of eucalyptus essential oil, and 5 drops citronella essential oil.
DIY your own blend! Play around with the formula. Use the list of essential oils above and create something that works for you.
Ensure that you always dilute your essential oils. Never apply essential oils directly onto the skin. Do not spray essential oils on pets, as some can be toxic to them.
Always choose 100% real essential oils, NOT fragrance.
Wishing you a safe and healthy summer, and don’t let the bugs bite!
