- 10 drops of essential oil of citronella (known for repelling mosquitoes)
- 10 drops of essential oil of lavender (relaxes the body while repelling bugs)
- 10 drops of essential oil of eucalyptus (a great natural insect repellent)
- 1 tablespoon of witch hazel (a natural astringent that helps mix oils with water)
- 1 tablespoon of carrier oil (like coconut oil or olive oil for skin moisturizing)
- 1/2 cup of distilled water (to dilute the oils and make it spreadable)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (adds additional repellent properties and acts as a preservative)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Bottle:
- Start by grabbing a small spray bottle (preferably 4-8 ounces in size). Clean it thoroughly before use.
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Add Essential Oils:
- Add 10 drops each of citronella, lavender, and eucalyptus essential oils into the bottle. These oils are known for their powerful repellent properties and pleasant, calming scents.
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Add Witch Hazel:
- Pour in 1 tablespoon of witch hazel. Witch hazel acts as a base that helps blend the oils with water and helps the spray last longer.
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Add Carrier Oil:
- Add 1 tablespoon of carrier oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil, to help moisturize your skin while providing an extra layer of protection.
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Add Water:
- Fill the rest of the spray bottle with distilled water (about 1/2 cup). Distilled water is best because it’s pure and free from minerals or impurities.
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Optional: Add Apple Cider Vinegar:
- For additional bug-repelling power, you can add 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. This will also help preserve your repellent for a longer shelf life.
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Shake to Combine:
- Put the cap on the bottle and shake it well to mix all the ingredients together. Make sure the oils are well-distributed in the mixture.
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Use and Store:
- Spray the repellent on exposed skin or around areas where you want to keep bugs at bay. Shake well before each use, as the ingredients may naturally separate.
- Store the bottle in a cool, dark place when not in use.
