Summer is synonymous with spending time outdoors and pleasant evenings with family and friends. However, this beautiful season also brings its share of annoyances: insects. Mosquitoes, flies, and other pests can quickly ruin our relaxing moments. Fortunately, aromatherapy offers a natural and effective solution to keep these unwelcome guests at bay. In this article, we'll explore how to use three particularly powerful essential oils: Lemongrass, Rose Geranium, and True Lavender. Whether you're a novice or an aromatherapy enthusiast, this comprehensive guide will help you use essential oils to have a peaceful, bite-free summer.
3 anti-insect essential oils
Lemongrass: Natural ally against insects
Lemongrass essential oil, extracted from the leaves of the Cymbopogon citratus plant, is renowned for its fresh and invigorating lemony aroma. This oil is widely used in aromatherapy for its many benefits, including its effectiveness in repelling insects.
The main component of Lemongrass essential oil is citral, which is known for its insect repellent properties. It works by disrupting the nervous system of insects, disorienting them and causing them to move away.
- Helpful Tip : Diffuse a few drops of Lemongrass essential oil. Place the diffuser in areas where insects are most prevalent, such as kitchens or living rooms. This method creates a natural olfactory barrier, allowing you to enjoy your space while repelling insects.
- 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.
Rose Geranium: Floral Secret Against Insects
Rose Geranium essential oil is obtained by distilling the leaves and flowers of Pelargonium graveolens . Valued for its floral and slightly sweet fragrance, this oil is a must-have in aromatherapy for its soothing and repellent properties.
The main component of rose geranium essential oil is geraniol, a monoterpene alcohol with powerful insect-repellent properties. Geraniol interferes with insects' olfactory receptors, preventing them from detecting the human and animal odors that normally attract them.
- Top Tip : Mix 20 drops of Rose Geranium essential oil with 100 ml of water and 10 ml of apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle. Shake and spray around windows, doors, and other insect entry points.
- Precautions: Not suitable for pregnant women under 3 months - Nor for children under 3 years old - Dilute before application to the skin
True Lavender: Effective Softness Against Insects
True lavender essential oil, also known as common lavender ( Lavandula angustifolia ), is obtained by distillation of the flowering tops. It is widely recognized for its soothing fragrance and its many benefits, including its insect repellent properties.
The main active ingredient in true lavender essential oil is linalool, a monoterpene alcohol, which has insect repellent and calming properties. It disrupts the olfactory receptors of insects, preventing them from locating their usual targets, while providing a feeling of relaxation for humans.
- Practical Tip: Mix 10 drops of true lavender essential oil with 30 ml of jojoba carrier oil. Apply this mixture to exposed skin areas, especially arms and legs. This synergy not only provides protection against insects, but also soothing benefits for the skin.
- Precautions: Not suitable for pregnant women under 3 months, or infants under 3 months.
Repellent Recipes for a Bug-Free Summer
Aromatic Diffusion: “Invisible Barrier”
Ingredients
- 45 drops of Lemongrass essential oil
- 45 drops of Rose Geranium essential oil
- 45 drops of true lavender essential oil
Preparation
- In a 5 ml opaque bottle, add the essential oils of Lemongrass, Rose Geranium, and True Lavender. Close the bottle and shake gently to mix well.
- Fill the diffuser with water according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Use
- Add 5 to 10 drops of the synergy to a diffuser. Diffuse this blend for 30 to 45 minutes in rooms where insects are most prevalent. This blend creates a natural and pleasant olfactory barrier to repel mosquitoes and other pests.
Repellent Spray: “Natural Guardian”
Ingredients
- 20 drops of Lemongrass essential oil
- 20 drops of rose geranium essential oil
- 20 drops of true lavender essential oil
- 10 ml of alcohol (such as vodka)
- QSP 100 ml of water
Preparation
- In a 100 ml opaque spray bottle, mix the essential oils with the alcohol. Add water to make 100 ml. Close the bottle and shake gently to thoroughly mix the essential oils with the water and alcohol.
Use
- Spray this repellent around windows, doors, on clothing and upholstery for optimal protection against insects.
- Do a preliminary test to ensure the fabric does not stain.
Skin Application: “Soft Armor”
Ingredients
- 5 drops of Lemongrass essential oil
- 5 drops of rose geranium essential oil
- 5 drops of true lavender essential oil
- QSP of 30 ml of Jojoba vegetable oil
Preparation
- In a 30 ml opaque bottle, add the essential oils of Lemongrass, Rose Geranium, and True Lavender. Add the Jojoba carrier oil until you have 30 ml. Close the bottle and shake gently to mix well.
Use
- Apply to exposed skin areas, including arms, legs, and neck. This synergy provides personal, natural protection against insect bites while nourishing the skin.
General precautions
- Dilution: Always dilute the synergy before skin application to avoid any irritation.
- Tolerance test: Before use, carry out a skin tolerance test by applying a small amount of the diluted synergy to the inside of the elbow and wait 24 hours to check for an allergic reaction.
- Medical Consultation: In case of pregnancy, breastfeeding, or specific medical conditions, consult a health professional before using essential oils.
Thanks to the power of essential oils, you can now enjoy every moment of your summer without the usual pest problems. These natural essences not only repel pests; they also enrich your environment with soothing and purifying scents.
By adopting the diffusion methods, repellent sprays, and skin application synergies we've explored, you can transform your space into an oasis of tranquility.
This summer, take control of your comfort with aromatherapy and say goodbye to insects in a stylish and natural way. Embrace the warm season with serenity, surrounded by beneficial aromas that keep pests at bay. This is the key to an unforgettable summer, in harmony with nature and without compromising your well-being.
Sources of information (bibliography):
Françoise Couic-Marinier, Dr Anthony Toubol, The Living Earth Guide to Essential Oils, Living Earth Edition, November 17, 2017, 477 p. ISBN: 9782360982752
Michel Faucon, Sensory Approaches in Aromatherapy, Dunod Edition, November 27, 2023, 992 p. ISBN: 9782100851362
Video: Morning TV on France 2 Santé - “ The benefits of essential oils”
Maison Jacynthe disclaims all liability. All information contained on this page is not intended to replace justified allopathic treatment or 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.
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