DIY Non-Toxic Bug Balm
Each morning I walk my dog Bailey through the salt marshes to the bay. It’s my favorite time of day and I love watching the Ospreys, the rabbits that always seem so busy and the deer that shyly show up. What has also shown up recently though – are the mosquitoes!
I don’t want to have to give up my walk through the marshes each morning, so I started researching how I could make a natural mozzie repellant. After all, conventional insect repellents contain questionable ingredients, but a homemade repellent balm works well without the worry!
Here is my healthy non-toxic alternative for you and your family.
INGREDIENTS
30 drops citronella essential oil
25 drops lemongrass essential oil
25 drops cedarwood essential oil
25 drops lavender essential oil
5 drops peppermint essential oil
5 drops geranium essential oil
6 ounces unrefined coconut oil
2 ounces shea butter
1 1/2 ounces beeswax
2 tablespoons castor oil
DIRECTIONS
Measure out essential oils in a small glass container
Place all of the ingredients except for the essential oils into a saucepan and gently melt over very low heat while stirring.
When the oils melt completely, remove from heat and allow to cool before adding the essential oils. I like to wait until the edges of the mixture start to become opaque and firm.
Once the essential oils are mixed in, pour the mixture into glass jars or metal tins. I used one 4 oz. mason jars. The balm will start to cool and solidify quickly.
After about 30 minutes, the balm should be all cooled down and ready for a lid and a label.
The finished product is quite firm, making it a great repellent to carry in your purse or diaper bag. A little goes a long way, and you don’t have to worry about it leaking or spilling. The first time I watched a mosquito hover over my leg, then fly away, I was thrilled!
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In good health,
