Friday, May 12, 2017

Help for Summer Pests

Unfortunately, our beautiful spring and summer weather also brings unwanted pests to deal with. Essential oils can help!
 
To help repel mosquitoes, try Lemon, Peppermint, Eucalyptus Radiata, or Lemongrass. You can use topically or diffuse like I sometimes do on my patio.
 
I usually apply Purification (blend) to mosquito bites, which takes the itch away quickly and prevents swelling for me. You could also try Tea Tree, Lavender or Peppermint.
 
Other general insect repellents to try are Lime, Lavender, Tea Tree, Cedarwood, Geranium, Idaho Tansy, Rosemary, Patchouli, Citronella, or Thyme; and Purification, Thieves, or Melrose blends. As always, use what you have on hand!
 
To repel snakes, try a 50:50 mixture of Clove and Cinnamon Bark oils mixed with water in a spray bottle. Spray the areas you want snake-free.

I found a product (available at most hardware stores) called “I Must Garden,” which is based on essential oils. They have varieties for deer, rabbits, squirrels and more. The deer formula really helps in my yard; just remember to spray new growth, too – and it lasts through rain!

And for our pets – here are some ideas to help repel fleas and ticks. Yes, there are two different blends; use one in the morning and one at night.


Dogs

Flea Blend


1/2 oz. base oil, like hazelnut or sweet almond
4 drops Clary Sage
1 drop Citronella
7 drops Peppermint
3 drops Lemon

Store in dark glass bottle. Apply 2-4 drops topically to neck, chest, legs, and tail base of the dog. Or add the drops to a bandanna or cotton collar.

Tick Blend

1/2 oz. base oil
2 drops Geranium
2 drops Rosewood
3 drops Lavender
2 drops Myrrh
1 bay leaf


See above for storage and application.

Cats are a different story. They are much more sensitive to essential oils, so I recommend you find a really good book and follow their instructions implicitly. The book I used for the flea and tick remedies is great and has information for all types and sizes of animals. Holistic Aromatherapy for Animals, by Kristen Leigh Bell.

And of course, I would only use Young Living products on my pets and myself!



Joyce Phelps Stephens, NCLMBT #2272
110 Iowa Lane, Suite 201
Cary, NC 27511
919-270-5868
YLEO#401605

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