It’s easy to skip on the chemicals and instead use essential oils for gnats and flies that can ruin outdoor activities. Let me show you how.
What are Gnats?
Gnats are tiny flying insects with large transparent wings that like to fly together in cloud-like clusters. Some species of gnats can bite, leaving reddish welts on the skin. Biting gnats, also known as black flies or buffalo gnats have a painful bite that gives a burning sensation.
Other types of gnats may not bite but can still be annoying as they fly around in flocks and can bother you as you try to enjoy the great outdoors.
How Do Essential Oils Help Repel Gnats?
Essential oils are potent substances that are derived from pressing or distilling plant material. Essential oils are literally the essence of a plant or herb captured into a bottle.
They are rich in strong aromatic compounds called terpenes. These compounds are the source of the unique and natural aromas that each oil has. While these scents may smell lovely and pleasing to us, they are actually unpleasant to insects like gnats!
Top 7 Essential Oils for Gnats
1. Eucalyptus (where to get it)
2. Peppermint (where to get it)
3. Rosemary (where to get it)
4. Tea tree (where to get it)
5. Geranium (where to get it)
6. Patchouli (where to get it)
7. Cedarwood (where to get it)
How to Use Essential Oils for Gnats
» 1. Gnat-Today Homemade Spray
This easy DIY gnat spray is just what you need to keep those pesky critters at bay.
What you need:
- 8 oz spray bottle (where to get it)
- ½ cup of white vinegar (where to get it)
- ½ cup of distilled water (where to get it)
- 10 drops of eucalyptus
- 5 drops of rosemary
- 5 drops of geranium
Method:
- Pour in all the essential oils into the spray bottle.
- Close the cap and shake the contents to get them all mixed up.
- Spray your surroundings with this potent spray to keep the gnats away.
- Keep away from your eyes and also your pets’ eyes.
» 2. Gnat Repellent Body Cream
A body oil is great for topical application so gnats don’t even think about landing on your skin and taking a bite!
What you need:
- Double boiler (where to get it)
- ½ cup of shea butter (where to get it)
- 4 drops of geranium
- 4 drops of cedarwood
- 2 drops of peppermint
Method:
- In a double boiler, melt the shea butter until completely liquefied.
- Take off heat and add all the essential oils.
- Now transfer the shea-essential oil mix into an old container or a 4 oz container.
- Apply this safe gnat-repelling cream all over your exposed skin areas. Reapply every 2 hours. This recipe is safe for children.
» 3. Gnat Repelling Diffuser Blend
Got a portable diffuser that you can take with you to picnics and outdoor areas? Great! Here’s a potent diffuser blend you can use to keep gnats off the premises.
What you need:
- 6 drops of peppermint
- 3 drops of eucalyptus
- 3 drops of patchouli
- 2 drops of tea tree
- 2 drops of geranium
- High quality diffuser (where to get it)
Method:
Pour the above essential oils into your diffuser and diffuse to repel gnats.
What are your favorite essential oils for gnats? Share your recipes in the comments below!