Essential Oils as Insect Repellents

Ever wonder which essential oil repels which insect effectively?  Here's a list of the most common pests and their best essential oil repellents!  Always dilute essential oils before using on the skin; make your own sprays, or diffuse these oils too to help repel bugs.
Mosquitoes:

1. Citronella (also repels Beatles, moths, fleas and ants)
2. Rose Geranium
3. Clove (although is highly irritating to the skin)
4. Eucalyptus 
5. Lemongrass (use with caution on the skin)
6. Peppermint
7. Tea tree
8. Lemon Eucalyptus
   

Ticks:
Rose Geranium!  
Ticks operate mostly by using their sense of smell - awaiting the victims by scent - so Rose Geranium is a powerful repellent!
Ants: 

1. Citronella
   
2. Eucalyptus, 
3. Cinnamon, 
4. Clove (again use caution if using on the skin!)
5. Peppermint, and 
6. Lemon

Spiders:

1. Citronella
2. Rose Geranium
3. Citrus Oils
4. Peppermint
5. Cinnamon (use caution on the skin)
6. Tea Tree
7. Clove (again use caution on the skin!)
8. Lemongrass

To make a Spider Repellent Spray use a 4 ounce spray bottle; add 40 drops peppermint and fill the rest with witch hazel. (use caution on delicate surfaces)
At Josiah's Oils, we also offer a complete concentrated Insect Away Blend to make your own spray!
Ninette Jackson, C.C.M.A.
www.josiahsoils.com
8 Meadow Lane, Lancaster, PA
717.824.3222

---