DID YOU KNOW that rubbing alcohol, applied to the skin, can repel mosquitoes? And that vodka can also help deter mosquitos when mixed with other ingredients? Also, if you plant marigolds planted near your front door and around your deck or patio they work as bug repellents. Adding sage or rosemary on the coals of your bbq can also help repel mosquitos.
According to yourorganicgardeningblog.com, these tips can reduce the mosquito population in your area, which is always a good thing–especially when you’re camping or outside for any reason. Additionally, the site boasts a great mosquito repellent recipe, which includes vodka as an ingredient of all things, that is completely natural and made of “volatile plant oils” that is safe for people and pets:
Mosquito Repellent Recipe
- 1/2 ounce citronella oil
- 1/4 ounce lavender oil
- 1/8 ounce pennyroyal oil
- 1/8 ounce tea tree oil
- 1/8 ounce jojoba oil
Do not use this blend undiluted on your skin.
Follow these instructions for diluting:
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To make bug repellent oil that can be used on your body, add 16 ounces of jojoba or almond oil to the base oil mixture and blend thoroughly.
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For bug repellent spray, add 16 ounces of vodka to the base oil mixture, pour into a spray bottle, and shake before using.
Although I haven’t actually tried this recipe yet, I am sure that my Boxer mix and Irish Wolfhound are looking forward to when I do this summer. Let us know how this works for you!