Nontoxic Tick Spray for a Naturally Bug-Free Summer
This natural tick-repellent spray uses essential oils to create a potent formula that’s free from harmful chemicals.
When these four essential oils — lemon eucalyptus, geranium, lemongrass, and citronella — are combined, the result is a potent, safe, and pleasingly aromatic tick repellent that works wonderfully well at fending off flying insects, too.
Note: You can substitute Eucalyptus globulus essential oil, if E. citriodora is unavailable. The formula will still be effective, but the lemon aroma will be lighter.
Lemony Eucalyptus-Geranium Tick-Repellent Spray
Ingredients and Supplies:
- 20 drops geranium essential oil
- 14 drops lemon eucalyptus essential oil
- 7 drops lemongrass essential oil
- 7 drops citronella essential oil
- ½ teaspoon liquid castile soap, peppermint or eucalyptus scented
- ½ teaspoon vegetable glycerin
- ¼ cup purified water
- ¼ cup unflavored vodka
- 4-ounce spritzer bottle
Directions:
- Add the geranium, lemon eucalyptus, lemongrass, and citronella essential oils directly to the storage bottle, then add the liquid soap, glycerin, water, and vodka. Screw the top on the bottle and shake vigorously to blend. Allow the spray to synergize for 1 hour.
- Store at room temperature, away from heat and light; use within 1 year.
Application: Shake well immediately before use. Spray liberally onto skin as needed — you may need to reapply every 20 to 30 minutes. May stain light-colored fabrics.
Excerpted and adapted from Naturally Bug-Free © Stephanie L. Tourles.