Natural Tick Repellent Recipe
Natural Tick Repellent Recipe This recipe is targeted specifically toward ticks, but is also helpful with mosquitos. Like my all-purpose homemade bug spray, it’s safe for children over two and pregnant/nursing mamas. (Note: Though I don’t apply this directly to my 16-month olds skin, I do spray his clothes when we are going outside.)
Water-Based Version
Ingredients
* 2 oz. apple cider vinegar, witch hazel or vodka (For info on sourcing non-GMO vodka check out my post on how to make vanilla extract)
* 2 oz. water * 20-40 drops geranium bourbon essential oil (where to buy it)
* Optional – one squirt of castile soap to help distribute the oil better (about 1/4 teaspoon – here’s the brand I use)
To Make
Because essential oils don’t mix well with water, start by adding your geranium oil to the apple cider vinegar, witch hazel or vodka. Add a squirt of castile soap if desired and allow it to sit for a couple of minutes before giving the mixture a stir. This will disperse the essential oil in the liquid. Add water and pour into a spray bottle, preferably one made of glass or PET plastic. (Essential oils can leach chemicals from some plastics, and we don’t want that!)
To Use
Shake well before use. Spray on skin or clothes before going outside.
Lotion-Based Version
Ingredients * 2 ounces natural lotion (I make my own, but some brands have pretty good ingredients. I like this one.) * 20-40 drops geranium bourbon essential oil (where to buy it)*
To Make
Mix oil and essential oils together and add to a spray bottle, or better yet an oil mister that is less likely to clog. Store in a cool, dark area when not in use. Should last 2-3 months.
To Use
Spray directly on skin before going outdoors.
Oil-Based Version
Ingredients * 2 ounces liquid oil such a jojoba (which is non-greasy), olive, etc. (where to buy jojoba oil, where to buy olive oil) * 20-40 drops geranium bourbon essential oil (where to buy it)*
To Make
Mix oil and essential oils together and add to a spray bottle, or better yet an oil mister that is less likely to clog. Store in a cool, dark area when not in use. Should last 2-3 months.
To Use
Spray directly on skin before going outdoors.