Summer Safety Series: Natural, Nontoxic Tick and Mosquito Repellent

 Gardening, hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities can be the highlight of the summer season. Don't allow mosquito's or ticks to impede on a lovely summer day or peaceful warm evening.

Mosquito and tick bites are not only annoying, but can be downright dangerous. Transmitting many diseases from West Nile Virus to Lyme Disease. Commercial insect repellents can be just as scary and toxic to humans and our pets.

Mother Nature has bestowed upon us many plant compounds to help ward off these unwanted pests. Below is a list of plants and flowers that may be planted to bring beauty and protection during the summer months. I have also included a recipe for an all natural tick, flea, and mosquito repellent.

Plants to aid:

Marigolds

Thai Lemongrass

Citronella 

Lemon Balm

Garlic

Rosemary

Geranium

Penny royal

Basil

Peppermint

Lavender

Recipe to ward off insects 

Choose one or any combination of these essential oils:

Lemongrass

Clove

Tea Tree

Eucalyptus

Cedar

Citronella

Mint

Lavender

Catnip

Distilled Water

Witch Hazel

Clean, empty spray bottle 8oz size

1. Fill empty bottle with 4oz of distilled or boiled water.

2. Add 3oz of witch hazel

3. Add 35 drops of essential oils. You may mix scents to create your own personalized odor.

4. Secure cap and shake well. You may use this spray directly on your clothing or skin

Apply as needed, especially after bathing or swimming.

Cider apple vinegar is an excellent tick repellent -

Combine equal parts of vinegar and water. It may be sprayed directly on pets fur to ward off ticks. Be cautious not to spray animals eyes. Adding two tablespoons of lemon juice, citrus oil, or peppermint oil will aid in preventing fleas.

Another helpful hint is to build and display bat houses. Bats feast on 500-1000 mosquito's in one night. 

Blessed Be the Bat