Nature’s Bug and Tick Spray

Being in nature is a great way to drink in mindfulness.  We also want to protect ourselves from those pesky bugs and ticks.  Personally, I’m not a fan of bug sprays that are on the market.  The main active ingredient in most sprays is DEET.  DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide) can cause adverse reactions which may include seizures, cardiovascular issues and more.  What should you do? 

I use 100% organic and therapeutic grade essential oils for quite a bit in my life from promoting relaxation to sleep to bug spray.  As far as sprays for outdoor pests, I believe this is nature’s way of protecting itself since essential oils come from plants.  With the increase in pests and ticks this summer in the south due to the warmer winter, we can create our own arsenal of sprays and ensure we don’t absorb harmful chemicals. 

Here’s my personal recipe and each of these oils has research to back it up.  Note:  please ensure that you use therapeutic grade oils and perform a patch test on your skin prior to using.  Visit this article for more on essential oil safety.
 
Summer Spray

• 1/4 cup of Witch Hazel and Water combined (equal parts)
• 5 drops of Grapefruit essential oil
• 5 drops Citronella essential oil
• 5 drops of Eucalyptus essential oil
• 5 drops Tea Tree essential oil
• 3 drops of Lemon essential oil
• If you want to add a little relaxation into your spray, add 3-5 drops of Lavender essential oil
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Combine all ingredients in an amber colored glass spray bottle, not a clear plastic bottle.  Make in small amounts (like this recipe) to ensure oils are fresh.  Shake before use since oils float and separate from Water and Witch Hazel.  Spray on and let it dry.  To ensure no sun sensitivity and add an extra layer of protection if you’re hiking through nature, use a light layer of clothing to cover up.  Enjoy the great outdoors!
​#mindbodyyou #essentialoils #bugspray #celestecooperpeel

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