Breathing fresh air, listening to birdsong, smelling the scent of plants... Walks in nature are a true source of physical and mental well-being. However, these rejuvenating moments can be spoiled by unpleasantness like mosquitoes, insect bites, or small scratches. Rather than resorting to chemical solutions, more and more people are turning to natural alternatives that are kind to their skin and the environment.
Among them, essential oils prove to be valuable allies. Used for centuries, some possess repellent, soothing, and healing properties, ideal for fully enjoying your hikes, picnics, or forest getaways. In this article, I invite you to discover how essential oils of true lavender, rose geranium, and lemongrass can effectively support you during your outdoor outings.
Prepare your nature kit and leave with peace of mind, in complete safety, thanks to aromatherapy!
3 Essential Oils for Your Nature Outings
True lavender: soothing and restorative
True lavender essential oil is rich in linalool and linalyl acetate , two compounds that give it anti - inflammatory , analgesic and healing properties . It is particularly indicated for calming itching , insect bites , small burns and grazes . It is a very gentle oil , well tolerated by the skin.
Practical advice:
For a bite or minor injury, apply a pure drop ( for adults ) of True Lavender directly to the affected area . You can repeat the application 2 to 3 times a day to quickly soothe the skin.
Precautions:
Not recommended for pregnant women under 3 months - Prohibited for infants under 3 months.
Rose geranium: natural repellent with a floral fragrance
Rose geranium essential oil is composed mainly of citronellol and geraniol , two molecules known for their powerful repellent effect against mosquitoes and other flying insects. It also has interesting anti - inflammatory properties to soothe the skin after a bite .
Practical advice:
Dilute 5 drops of Rose Geranium in 1 tablespoon of jojoba vegetable oil and apply to exposed areas ( arms , legs , ankles) before a walk. The pleasant floral scent naturally repels insects while caring for your skin.
Precautions:
Prohibited for pregnant women under 3 months - Prohibited for children under 3 years old - Dilute with vegetable oil
Lemongrass: formidable mosquito repellent
Lemongrass essential oil contains citral, a molecule that is very effective in repelling mosquitoes and biting insects. It also has fungicidal and sanitizing properties , making it a suitable choice for humid or tropical areas.
Practical advice:
For outdoor protection , add 10 drops of Lemongrass 30 ml of alcohol or hydrosol in a spray bottle . Spray on tent curtains or the ambient air. You can also use it as a diffuser on the terrace or when camping to keep insects away.
Precautions:
Not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women - Or for children under 6 years old - Dilute before application to the skin - Avoid direct contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
Recipes for your nature kit
“Bye-Bye Buzz” Natural Mosquito Repellent Spray
Ingredients :
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10 drops of rose geranium essential oil
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10 drops of Lemongrass essential oil
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10 drops of true lavender essential oil
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30 ml of lavender hydrosol
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1 x 50 mL amber glass spray bottle
Preparation :
Pour the essential oils into the bottle, add the hydrosol , then shake well. Let stand for 24 hours before first use for optimal synergy.
Use :
Spray on clothes , backpacks or shoes , or in the ambient air before a walk , avoiding contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
Precautions:
Do not use in children under 6 years of age or in pregnant women. Perform a patch test first if you want to apply it to the skin. Shake well before each use. Test first to ensure the fabric does not stain.
Soothing Balm “Gentle Sting, Gentle Respite”
Ingredients :
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2 tbsp shea butter
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5 drops of true lavender essential oil
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5 drops of rose geranium essential oil
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1 30 mL glass jar
Preparation :
Gently melt the shea butter in a bain-marie. Remove from the heat and add the essential oils. Mix well and pour into the jar. Let it set at room temperature .
Use :
Apply a small amount to itched or irritated areas 2 to 3 times a day until improvement . The balm also nourishes dry or sensitive skin .
Precautions:
Do not apply to an open or oozing wound. Keep away from the heat . Avoid in children under 3 years old without medical advice .
“Minute Serenity” Emergency Stick
Ingredients :
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5 ml of calendula vegetable oil
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5 drops of true lavender essential oil
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1 roll-on of 5 mL
Preparation :
Mix the essential oils into the vegetable oil directly in the roll-on bottle . Close and shake lightly .
Use :
Apply topically to a bite , scratch , or small burn , up to 3 times a day. This size is perfect for slipping into your pocket or bag.
Precautions:
Not recommended for children under 3 years old and pregnant women under 3 months old . Always test on a small area of skin before use.
General precautions for the use of essential oils
To take full advantage of these synergies, follow these tips:
Specific precautions for broadcasting: Do not diffuse for more than 30 minutes per session to avoid saturating the air. Use a diffuser that is appropriate for the size of your room.
Dilution: Dilute essential oils before skin application to avoid irritation.
Tolerance test: Before use, carry out a skin tolerance test by applying a small amount of essential oil diluted in vegetable oil to the inside of the elbow and wait 24 hours to check for an allergic reaction.
Do not use in children, pregnant or breastfeeding women without medical advice: It is imperative to consult the essential oils sheet and consult a health professional before any use in these specific cases.
Precautions in case of pathologies: People with chronic illnesses (asthma, epilepsy, hypertension, etc.) should consult their doctor before using essential oils, as some may have adverse effects or be contraindicated with their treatment. Your doctor is the only primary player in your health.
Beware of photosensitizing oils: Some essential oils, such as citrus oils (lemon, bergamot, grapefruit), can cause skin burns or spots if exposed to the sun after application. Do not use them before direct sun exposure.
Avoid mucous membranes and eyes: Essential oils can cause severe irritation. In case of accidental contact, rinse thoroughly with a carrier oil, not water. Consult your doctor.
To conclude…
Walks in the forest , summer hikes or impromptu picnics are precious moments to reconnect with yourself and with nature. To fully enjoy these moments without being bothered by insect bites , eating or minor ailments , natural essential oils offer a solution that is as effective as it is respectful of your health .
By including essentials such as True Lavender, Rose Geranium and Lemongrass in your travel kit , you are equipping yourself with a real aromatic kit .
And above all, let yourself be guided by the beneficial scents of nature... they have so much to offer!
References
Books:
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My Bible of Essential Oils – Danièle Festy – Éd. Leduc, 2008
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The Living Earth Guide to Essential Oils – Françoise Couic Marinier, Dr Anthony Touboul – Éd. Terre Vivante, 2017
France 2 broadcast:
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Télé Matin (2015): Web video “Health - Making your own products against insect bites”
Maison Jacynthe disclaims all liability. All information contained on this page is not intended to replace justified allopathic treatment, nor to disregard the expertise of the medical profession. It is up to each individual to take charge of their own health, to inform themselves, and to make the necessary changes to improve their condition. Therapeutic supervision by a qualified health professional is obviously recommended.
