We know they are coming – BUGS – So let us be prepared

by Penny Keay

Spring and summer are sure to arrive soon. Next will come all those dormant bugs and insect pests that have been enjoying a long winter sleep will once again arrive and most likely with a huge appetite!

Of course, we are talking about mosquitos, but there are also other insects and flying pests that bite and sting.

In more recent years it has been found that Eucalyptus Lemon Essential oil is very effective at repelling insect, including the mosquito.

If you wish to use Eucalyptus Lemon we suggest no more than a 2-3% dilution. You can mix it with plain distilled water, shake well, and spray on your skin and around your ankles, wrists, neck etc. Anywhere you know those pesky little bugs like to attack you!

Due to the evaporative nature of essential oils you will need to reapply every 2-4 hours depending on your activity levels while outdoors.

Don't forget you can also mix Eucalyptus Lemon with any lotion; it may help soften your skin at the same time.

Some people prefer to mix essential oils with carrier oils. Sweet almond and Sunflower oils are excellent light oils to use, along with Fractionated coconut oil. Fractionated coconut oil is known for its ease in being able to be washed out of clothing.

Many other essential oils are known to be great at repelling insects. Lavender, Geranium, Citronella, Eucalyptus, Sandalwood, Cedarwood and Pennyroyal. For another recipe for repelling more insects see our recipe section in this issue.

Once bitten your first line of defense is Lavender. Every summer time first aid kit should include Lavender. It can be applied, once diluted with carrier oil or lotion, to the affected area as needed. After cleaning the area with warm soapy water, rinsing and drying, apply a drop of your blend directly to the insect bite.

Roman chamomile and Eucalyptus can also be added to your bug bite blend and applied in small dabs directly on the bite.

The more serious insect bites, such as hornet, wasp or bee stings, remove the stinger first, using the proper technique found in most first aid books. Then apply the diluted Lavender, Roman chamomile or Eucalyptus.

Apply a cold compress over the affected area, changing frequently. Do NOT use ice as you can cause damage to the skin if it accidentally becomes frozen.

If you or someone you know are affected by severe allergic reactions to bee stings, seek immediate medical attention.

For gnat and chigger bites, a mixture of 1 teaspoon cider vinegar and 3 drops thyme applied to the bite may also give relief.

Some people get relief from the severe itching of all insect bites by applying a small amount of peppermint mixed with carrier oil to the area. Try not to scratch or itch any insect bite, as you do not want to introduce any unwelcome bacteria into the area.

Making a paste mixture using a small amount of baking soda and coconut oil and adding one or two drops of antihistamine type essential oils may help. Roman chamomile and German Chamomile are such oils.

You may have other oils that have helped you once you were bitten. If you would like to share please let us know.

Of course, the best thing is to avoid being bitten. Preventing insect bites by using essential oils and blends to repel those nasty encounters is a pleasant and simple thing to do.

Here is a Great BUG repellent recipe

Cajeput - 25 drops
Eucalyptus Lemon -20 drops
Geranium - 20 drops
Cedarwood -15 drops
Almond Oil - 2 oz

Mix the essential oils in a PET Plastic bottle, and then add the Almond Oil.

Shake until well blended. Apply a thin amount to exposed skin. Apply as needed. Other essential oils for repelling that may work better for some folks include: Lemongrass, Citronella, Thyme, Peppermint, Cedarwood, Geranium, and Sandalwood.

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