It is bug season and if you are like me, hiding from mosquitos is not easy. I swear this year they are twice the size of normal. Time to break out the natural pest controls!
There are lots of bug sprays out there with commercially made neuro-toxins. They work on the nervous system of the bugs and kill them off. The problem is they also work on your nervous system affecting you as well. Insect sprays are generally made from chemicals called pyrethroids.
These are man-made pesticides that mimic the natural pyrethrums (Chrysanthemums cinerariaefolium and C. coccineum).
Common synthetic pyrethroids found in bug-killing sprays are sumithrin, resmethrin and permethrin. These synthetics are also found in commercial products like pet sprays and shampoos.
Permethrin for example is intended to be used on clothing and mosquito netting only. When bugs touch it their nervous system is disrupted and they are paralyzed and die. When you use this on yourself or your pets, you also get it into your and your pets nervous system and it does effect you both.
Why use a synthetic when you can use the real thing on your skin without worry? There is an amazing blend of essential oils called TerraShield and this month if you are doing your loyalty order by the 15th of the month you will get it free.
TerraShield is formulated with a unique combination of essential oils known for their rich content of citronellol including Citronella and Geranium. With refreshing scents, such as Cedarwood and Peppermint.
I love sitting on the deck with the diffuser going (often with just Peppermint or Arborvitae) and watch the mosquitoes only come so close before turning back.
When you do head outside for a hike or when camping you can safely put TerraShield on your arms, neck and legs. Do dilute more for your face, kids and pets. It also comes in a 30 ml spray bottle that can be reused. So when you are out and about the spray bottle is light and easy to carry.
Here is a great DIY with lots of extra power. Think horse flies, dear flies and other biting insects as well.
If you like to make your own blends there are lots to chose from. You can create a blend that can be your own personal scent as well. Peppermint, Citronella, Arborvitae, Geranium, Cedarwood, Lemongrass, are essential oils that you can use to create your own. You can use either a carrier oil or water for your DIY. Remember if you use water to shake it before every use. (Water is good for your pets, and dilute well)
Want to use a single multi-faceted oil? The essential oils Geranium, Peppermint, and Arborvitae have many uses other than helping to protect you from bugs. You may also wish to bring Lavender into the mix.
Lavender not only helps to keep the bugs off it is good after, if you do get bitten to calm and sooth the itch.
Here are some options that you can blend for the diffuser when you are camping or in your backyard.
Hope you have lots of fun out on your road this summer and stay safe from the bugs. If you have any favorite blends please share in the comments below so others can share in your blend.
If you have questions or would like to learn more please contact me by commenting below or use the contact tab above. Looking forward to helping you on Your Road to ReNew You.