We’ve had unusually warm weather here in the Midwest this year. In fact, it’s March, and not only are flowers blooming and green leaves bursting forth from the trees, but the creepy crawlers are already “bugging” us. And, much to my dismay, my husband discovered this year’s first nasty spider in the basement. Anyone who knows me knows how bug-phobic I can be.

As health-conscious common scents moms, we don’t want toxic pesticides harming our families! And why should we? We can repel bugs (and even sometimes kill them) with essential oils that are not only safe, but are good for us! Below is a list of oils that will help solve most of our pest problems around the house and garden…

ANTS
Peppermint
Spearmint

APHIDS
Cedarwood
Hyssop
Peppermint
Spearmint

BEETLES
Peppermint
Thyme

CATERPILLARS
Spearmint
Peppermint

CHIGGERS
Lavender
Lemongrass
Sage
Thyme

CUTWORM
Thyme
Sage

FLEAS
Peppermint
Lemongrass
Spearmint
Lavender

FLIES
Lavender
Peppermint
Rosemary
Sage

GNATS
Patchouli
Spearmint

LICE
Cedarwood
Peppermint
Spearmint

MOSQUITOES
Lavender
Lemongrass

MOTHS
Cedarwood
Hyssop
Lavender
Peppermint
Spearmint

PLANT LICE
Peppermint
Spearmint

SLUGS
Cedarwood
Hyssop
Pine

SNAILS
Cedarwood
Pine
Patchouli

SPIDERS
Peppermint
Spearmint

TICKS
Lavender
Lemongrass
Sage
Thyme
Palo Santos

WEEVILS
Cedarwood
Patchouli
Sandalwood

As a bug repellant for your skin, mix 20 drops with a few ounces of water (and a T. or so of high proof grain alcohol) and put in a squirt bottle. Spray your body and clothing with your homemade mixture. You may also spray bedding. If you’re going to be camping, you may want to mix the oils of your choice with a carrier oil and rub into your feet and legs. Also, spray your shoes and pants well.

For bug bites or stings, Lavender or the Purification blend work great!

Try making your own “Don’t Bug Me” Jar Lantern by CLICKING HERE

Categories: Essential Oil Tips, Household Uses
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