Summertime is all about the great outdoors. The only drawback? Mosquitoes! Luckily, eucalyptus essential oil can save the day.
It’s a natural alternative to DEET – a chemical insect repellent. DEET is designed to mask your skin’s odor. You can find in different products, from lotions to sprays. They can contain anywhere from 5 to 99 percent DEET.1
It also gets the job done. No wonder it’s been used for more than half a century.2 Sadly, DEET is jam-packed with toxins. It’s been known to cause allergic reactions and can even damage fabric and plastic.3 Your body is better off without it.
Enter eucalyptus oil. Studies have shown that it can work against mosquitoes, making it your new summer essential.
The Power Of Eucalyptus Essential Oil
In a study by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, researchers tested three different repellents. One had eucalyptus, the second had neem, and the third had a mix. They were all tested with 15 percent DEET.
The findings were nothing short of amazing. The eucalyptus-based repellent offered 96.89 percent protection for four hours. Meanwhile, DEET came in at 84.81 percent.
The experiment took place in the Bolivian Amazon.4 If eucalyptus oil worked there, imagine what it can do for you.
Another study in Tanzania saw similar results. When eucalyptus-based repellent was applied to the hands and feet, it provided complete protection. In fact, it was just as good as DEET.5
Eucalyptus oil is easy to find. You can purchase it at your local health store! To use it against mosquitoes, here’s how.
3 Ways To Repel Mosquitoes With Eucalyptus Essential Oil
1. Eucalyptus Oil Rub
To use eucalyptus essential oil, dilute it in a carrier. Ideal options include grapeseed, almond, or olive oils. It’s one of the simplest ways to use this natural remedy.
Ingredients:
- 10 drops eucalyptus essential oil
- 2 tablespoons carrier oil
Directions:
- Combine ingredients. Mix well.
- Using a funnel, pour into an amber or cobalt blue bottle. Apply as needed.
Want to make a bigger batch? Keep these proportions. For a travel-friendly option, use a roller ball.
2. Eucalyptus Spray
Body mists are perfect for cooling down. So, why not use eucalyptus oil? The scent is so refreshing that you’ll feel rejuvenated while keeping mosquitoes away.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup witch hazel or water
- 20 drops eucalyptus
Directions:
- Combine ingredients in an empty spray bottle. Shake well.
- Apply as needed.
Make sure the spray bottle is clean before using. When spraying it on your body, be careful around your face and eyes.
3. Eucalyptus Aromatherapy
Mosquitoes don’t like the smell of eucalyptus essential oil. Therefore, it’s a viable option for aromatherapy. This is perfect if you have sensitive skin or want to protect a specific space.
Eucalyptus oil can be added to a diffuser or essential oil burner. You can even add it to homemade candles or wax melts. If you like jewelry, wear a small locket. Fill it up with melted beeswax and eucalyptus oil. Once it hardens, you’ll have a portable insect repellent.
Additional Natural Insect Repellents
For a stronger repellent, add equal amounts of these natural essential oils. Combined with eucalyptus, they’ll keep pesky mosquitoes at bay.6 7 8
- Cedar
- Citronella
- Rosemary
- Peppermint
Thanks to eucalyptus essential oil, you can ditch the harmful chemicals. It’s a great way to treat your body well. Plus, eucalyptus oil is affordable and smells great. You can’t beat that.
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