Five Essential Oils That Help Keep Pesky Bugs Away

When it comes to insects, do you feel like you have to choose between putting up with the bugs and exposing yourself to pesticides? Fortunately, you don't. Several essential oils are great for repelling bugs like mosquitoes, ants, and flies, and they won't harm you in the process.

Lavender

The pleasant scent of this essential oil makes it great for using around the house. Place a few drops on some pine cones or wood chips, and set them in a bowl in your counter. Ants will stay away, as will fruit flies and other pesky insects.

Basil

Basil essential oil is great for repelling mosquitoes. Place a few drops in a bowl of olive oil, and place it in the center of the table the next time you're trying to enjoy a meal outside. The appetizing smell won't detract from your ability to enjoy your meal, and you won't have to worry about insects coming around, either.

To keep mosquitoes from landing on you when you're walking and working outside, add a few drops of basil oil to a spray bottle filled with water. Then, spritz yourself. Bring the bottle along with you, so you can reapply this natural insect repellent as needed.

Thyme

If you're having issues with houseflies, thyme essential oil is a great one to try. You can place a few drops on pine cones or wood chips, or you can mix the oil with water and spray it straight into the air. The appetizing scent makes this essential oil a good choice for the kitchen. It's edible, so you don't have to worry if some accidentally lands on your food.

Pine

Pine essential oil is great for when you're in the woods and being attacked by black flies and other pests. You could dilute it with water and spray it on yourself, but another option is to rub a little onto your outer layer of clothing. The strong scent from the pine oil will linger for hours, keeping you bug-free.

Peppermint

Peppermint oil does not just repel mosquitoes. It actually kills them. If you have a lot of standing water on your property, put a few drops of peppermint oil into each of the puddles or pools of water. You'll kill off the young mosquitoes before they get the chance to hatch and attack you. Your yard might smell like peppermint for a while, but at least the scent is pleasant.

For professional pest control, contact a company such as Bug Busters Inc.

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