Using insect repellents can help save you from itchy bites and insect-born illnesses, but some of the ingredients in commercial repellents are harsh chemicals. The most common is DEET which was developed by the United States Army. First it was tested as a farm crop pesticide and then it was used as insect repellent for soldiers in Vietnam and Southeast Asia. It is advised that DEET should not be applied directly to skin because it can cause mild to severe skin reactions.

The EPA has suggested that DEET could cause seizures in some people. However, even putting DEET on your clothing can be a concern. It is a strong solvent which can dissolve plastics, fabrics, leather and paint (including nail polish). http://www.deet.com/ It is no wonder that many people feel hesitant to spray these chemicals all over themselves and may be interested in learning how to make a natural insect repellent.

There are some alternatives, however, to harsh commercial insect repellents. These natural repellents can be concocted in your own home using familiar and gentle products. Also, homemade repellents can be not only safer, but less expensive than commercial repellents. http://www.naturodoc.com/library/lifestyle/bug_repellent.htm

Follow these simple steps to make a natural insect repellent in your own home.

Using essential oils is an effective way to repel insects. There are seven[essential oils that are the most commonly used by far for natural repellents. It is okay to mix a few of the oils to make the repellent that is best for you. For mosquitoes, you can use tea tree oil, lavender oil, cinnamon oil, eucalyptus oil or lemon eucalyptu[, citronella oil or castor oil. For biting flies, use citronella oil. For fleas, use orange oil and for ticks and lice use rose geranium or eucalyptus. http://www.eartheasy.com/live_natpest_control.htm You should choose which oils you prefer, based on which insects you will be exposed to and which scents you like or can put up with.

Essential oils are safe but can be very concentrated. They are potent, so applying them to your skin can cause a rash if you have sensitive skin. These essential oils should be mixed with an oil less likely to irritate your skin, or an alcohol. Safe options include baby oil (which is good for your skin), witch hazel, sunflower oil, olive oil or any other cooking oil (also good for your skin) and vodka. Using vodka, however, will leave you smelling like alcohol of course.

After choosing which ingredients best suite your preferences and needs, you are ready for the next step. Mix together the essential oils with the oil or alcohol base that you have chosen. You can mix the repellent in a small bowl or jar. The mixture should be roughly 10% essential oil. If your mixture contains very much more than this, the essential oils may cause a rash in some people. Avoid getting the essential oils in your eyes or mouth. http://www.motherearthnews.com/Natural-Health/2006-05-01/Natural-Mosquito-Repellent.aspx, http://www.youngliving.com/en_US/index.html If you are only making a small amount, this is 10 to 15 drops of essential oil per two tablespoons of the base oil or alcohol. Shake well. Your repellent will be the most effective and less irritating to your skin if you make sure it is very well mixed. You can stir the mixture into aloe vera gel. If you have two tablespoons of base oil or alcohol, use one tablespoon of aloe vera. http://www.zhealthinfo.com/basic-recipes.htm Aloe vera is also a natural moisturizer and will feel cool and soothing on any insect bites that you may already have. http://www.healthy-skincare.com/aloe-vera-skin-care.html , http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/aloe-vera/NS_patient-aloe

You can apply the mixture you have made in small drops to your skin and clothes. You can also pour the mixture (if it is thin) into a spray bottle and apply by spraying it on your skin and clothes. Another option is to rub the aloe vera gel mixture into your skin. Reapply if your skin gets wet or sweaty because the repellent can wash off or be diluted by water or sweat. Also, your homemade repellent may need to be reapplied every hour or so. http://www.mosquitoinfo.info/make-your-own-natural-mosquito-repellents/

If you don't use all of your repellent, it can be stored in a cool, dark place out of direct sunlight for later use. The repellent wont go bad or lose its potency as long as you keep it sealed and out of the sun. http://www.naturodoc.com/library/lifestyle/bug_repellent.htm Just make sure to remix the repellent each time before you use it so that the essential oils are evenly distributed on your skin and clothes.

Good luck with your homemade insect repellent! As long as you remember to reapply it frequently, you will not be disappointed.