While OLE is not recommended by the CDC because it lacks the extensive testing required for commercial repellents and synthesized materials, the efficacy of OLE as a mosquito and deer tick repellent is widely recognized. [4] X Research source [5] X Research source One example of an OLE-based insect repellent is to mix 2 tablespoons of witch hazel (relives skin irritation), 2 tablespoons of a carrier oil like almond or olive, a half teaspoon of vodka, and 100 drops of OLE. Shake it in a spray bottle, apply it to the skin, and reapply every few hours. [6] X Research source [7] X Research source A simpler approach would be to just blend 1 part OLE with 10 parts witch hazel (sunflower oil as a substitute) and apply it directly to the skin.
Citronella oil may evaporate quickly, requiring frequent reapplication. Apply minimal amounts of pure citronella oil to your forearms for up to two hours of protection.
Mix citronella oil with some vanillin then moderately apply it on your skin to get brief protection. [9] X Research source
A liquid soap can be created by adding 10-15 drops of lavender essential oil to some Castile soap, a plant oil-based soap made without animal fats. [11] X Research source You may also dilute it into a carrier oil like olive oil, or put it in some apple cider vinegar. [12] X Research source Create a potent mix by using 10-25 drops of lavender oil with a couple tablespoons of olive oil. Stir the contents until blended and dab on your skin when applicable. [13] X Research source Try a heavier lavender based option by using 25 drops of the essential oil and a quarter cup apple cider vinegar. Mix together well and apply as necessary. Combine 15 drops of lavender oil, a few tablespoons of vanilla extract, 1/4 cup of lemon juice, and some distilled water. Shake up the combo and spray it on exposed skin.
Mixing equal parts clove oil with some makaen oil mixture and applying approximately 0. 1g for every 3x10 cm of exposed skin has shown a repellency of over 95% efficacy for up to 5 hours. [16] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Try 6 drops of clove oil mixed with patchouli, grapefruit, lavender oil, and carrier oil for an easy to use spray. [17] X Research source
Add 32oz of apple cider vinegar to 2 Tbsp each of the following herbs sage, rosemary, lavender, thyme and mint. Shake it each day for two weeks, then strain the herbs and dilute the oil mixture with water. [19] X Research source Use sparingly, this is supposed to be a strong one!
In lab studies, adding just 5% vanillin to various ingredients, including turmeric, increased ability to repel mosquitoes for up to 8 hours. [22] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Try combining the two ingredients, 95% turmeric and 5% vanillin, to replicate the mixture. Or experiment with varying combinations until you gain the greatest effectiveness. Turmeric has been used as an insect repellent in Indian families for generations. [23] X Research source Make the repellent by grinding turmeric together with navadhanya grains and water. Once that paste is combined, add some slaked lime, which is essentially limewater, until the color turns red. [24] X Research source Use pure turmeric sprinkled where you want to deter pests. The high curcumin content in turmeric hinders the insects’ access to oxygen, and the antimicrobial aspects create an unendurable environment for bedbugs. [25] X Research source Mix turmeric powder and neem leaf powder together. Mix with water to form a paste. Smear over uncovered flesh. The neem leaf has shown the ability to not only repel insects near the tree, but also disrupt insect breeding nearby. [26] X Research source This natural insect repellent combo will keep insects at bay for an hour or more. Reapply as needed. [27] X Research source
