DIY All Natural 4-Ingredient Mosquito Repellent
July 24, 2020
Apart from the COVID-19 pandemic, Singaporeans have been battling another deadly virus in 2020.
Singapore environmental officers are on the verge of reporting more than 1,000 dengue fever cases for the fifth week in a row, as the numbers continue to mount in the city-state. The total dengue cases as of now is 18,666 and 16 fatalities have been reported to date.
Experts believe that the total number of cases this year is expected to exceed the 22,170 cases reported in 2013, the largest dengue outbreak in Singapore's history.
The alarming cases resulted in an increase use of mosquito repellents. However, did you know that there are many adverse side effects associated with DEET – a common chemical ingredient found in many commercial repellents. Some of the side effects include eye irritation, rashes, headache, dizziness, nausea and even brain cell death.
But fret no more, The Organikals has the perfect substitute for you!
Introducing you the easiest DIY home project made with ingredients you probably already have at home: All Natural 4-Ingredient Mosquito Repellent!
Ingredients:
1. Vanilla Extract (1 tablespoon)
2. Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon)
3. Lavender Oil, can be substituted with other essential oils like Lemongrass/Eucalyptus/Tea Tree/Peppermint (3-4 drops)
4. Water (1/4 cup, 60ml)
Steps:
1. In a small mixing bowl, add vanilla extract, lemon juice and lavender oil (or oil of choice). Mix well.
2. Add 1/4 cup of water to mixture and stir till well combined.
3. Transfer the repellent to a portable spray bottle.
4. Your DIY repellent is ready! Spray generously and re-apply every few hours to keep the mozzies away!
Why this works?
While the smell of lavender essential oil has a calming effect on us, it is quite repelling to mosquitoes. Lavender oil contains compounds like limonene, linalool, eucalyptol, and camphor, all of which are known to naturally repel mosquitoes and insects. Vanilla has natural insect repelling properties, and lemon juice has high acid content that helps in keeping mosquitoes at bay.
Tip:
We recommend making this in small quantities as it contains fresh ingredient like lemon juice. Since this recipe is hassle free, you can easily replenish and make it again once you run out!
We hope you had fun making this and do remember to tag us on Instagram or Facebook if you attempted this DIY! Stay safe!
With Love,
The Organikals team
