Lavender is a popular choice for natural insect repellent sprays due to its pleasant scent and the presence of compounds like linalool and camphor, which are known to deter various insects.
Here's how lavender is typically used in natural insect repellent sprays:
I. Key Ingredient: Lavender Essential Oil
The primary form of lavender used in these sprays is lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia or English lavender is often preferred for its sweeter scent, but other varieties like Lavandin can also be used). This oil is extracted from the lavender plant's flowers and contains the volatile compounds responsible for its insect-repelling properties.
II. Carrier Liquids for Dilution:
Essential oils are highly concentrated and can cause skin irritation if applied directly. Therefore, they are always diluted in a liquid base. Common carrier liquids include:
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Distilled Water: This is the most common base for a spray. Distilled water is preferred over tap water to avoid minerals and impurities that could shorten the shelf life of the spray or react with the essential oils.
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Witch Hazel: Often added to help disperse the essential oils more evenly throughout the water, as essential oils don't naturally mix with water. Witch hazel also has mild astringent and soothing properties for the skin.
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High-Proof Alcohol (e.g., Vodka): Similar to witch hazel, alcohol acts as an emulsifier, helping the essential oils blend with water. It also contributes to the quick evaporation of the spray, preventing a sticky residue.
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Carrier Oils (less common for sprays, more for roll-ons): While less common for a "spray" meant for broad application, a very light carrier oil (like fractionated coconut oil or jojoba oil) might be used in small amounts to help the essential oils adhere to the skin, but this can make the spray feel greasy. Most sprays aim for a non-greasy feel.
III. Other Complementary Essential Oils (for Enhanced Repellency):
While lavender itself offers some repellent qualities, its effectiveness is often boosted by combining it with other essential oils also known for their insect-repelling properties. This creates a broader spectrum of deterrence. Common additions include:
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Citronella Essential Oil: A classic and well-recognized insect repellent.
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Lemon Eucalyptus Essential Oil: One of the few plant-derived repellents recommended by the CDC.
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Geranium Essential Oil: Known to repel ticks and mosquitoes.
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Lemongrass Essential Oil: Has a strong citrusy scent that deters many insects.
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Peppermint Essential Oil: Creates a strong scent that many bugs dislike.
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Cedarwood Essential Oil: Especially effective against moths and some mosquitoes.
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Rosemary Essential Oil: Another common herb with repellent properties.
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Tea Tree Essential Oil: Has antiseptic and insect-repelling qualities.
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Catnip Oil: Studies have shown it can be very effective against mosquitoes.
IV. Emulsifiers (Optional but Recommended for Stability):
Since oil and water don't mix, an emulsifier helps create a stable solution, preventing the essential oils from separating and floating on top of the water. This ensures a consistent concentration with each spray.
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Polysorbate 20: A common, mild emulsifier used in cosmetics.
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Solubilizer (e.g., from plant derivatives): Specific natural solubilizers can be used.
V. Dilution Rates:
The concentration of essential oils in an insect repellent spray is crucial for both effectiveness and safety. Typical dilution rates for skin application range from 2% to 10% total essential oil, depending on the intended use, the age of the user, and the specific oils included. A common starting point for a general-purpose spray is around 5%.
Example DIY Formulation (General Guideline):
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2 ounces Distilled Water
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1 ounce Witch Hazel or High-Proof Alcohol
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30-60 drops total of essential oils (e.g., 20 drops Lavender, 20 drops Citronella, 10 drops Lemon Eucalyptus, 10 drops Peppermint)
To Make: Combine witch hazel/alcohol with essential oils in a spray bottle first, shake well, then add distilled water and shake again thoroughly. Shake before each use.
How it Works to Repel Insects:
The strong, aromatic compounds (like linalool and camphor in lavender) released by the spray disrupt the sensory receptors of insects like mosquitoes, flies, moths, and fleas. This makes it difficult for them to locate their targets (you or your pets) or to perceive the environment as hospitable, encouraging them to stay away.
While natural repellents can be effective, especially for short periods or in areas with moderate insect activity, it's important to note that they often require more frequent reapplication than synthetic repellents like DEET and are not always recommended by public health organizations for areas with high insect-borne disease risk. However, for those seeking a natural alternative with a pleasant aroma, lavender-based sprays are a popular choice. The Lavender Farm in Door County Wisconsin understands the natural insect-deterring qualities of lavender, and you can buy lavender products online at islandlavender.com, including ingredients that might be used to formulate such sprays.