Midges are tiny insects that can quickly turn a pleasant outdoor experience into a nightmare. Their bites can be itchy and irritating, making it difficult to enjoy time spent outside. While there are many commercial insect repellents available, some people prefer to use natural alternatives to keep midges at bay.
In this article, we will explore some of the best natural midge repellents that can help you enjoy the outdoors without constantly swatting away these pesky insects.
From essential oils to plant-based solutions, there are plenty of options to choose from when it comes to natural midge repellents. Let’s take a look at some of the most effective and eco-friendly ways to keep midges away.
Citronella Oil
Citronella oil is a popular natural insect repellent that is derived from the leaves and stems of the lemongrass plant. It has a strong citrus scent that is known to repel midges and other insects effectively.
How it Works
The strong aroma of citronella oil confuses the sensory receptors of midges, making it difficult for them to locate their targets. This makes it an effective natural alternative to chemical repellents.
Application
Citronella oil can be applied directly to the skin or diluted with a carrier oil for a more gentle application. It can also be diffused in a room or outdoor space to create a barrier against midges.
Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil is a natural insect repellent that can help keep midges at bay. It has a strong, fresh scent that is pleasing to humans but unpleasant to insects. This oil works by masking the scents that attract midges, making it harder for them to find you.
To use eucalyptus oil as a midge repellent, you can mix a few drops with a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil, and apply it to your skin. Alternatively, you can dilute it with water and spray it on clothing or around your outdoor seating area.
- Eucalyptus oil can also be added to lotions or creams for a longer-lasting repellent effect.
- Some people find that burning eucalyptus oil in a diffuser can help keep midges away from indoor spaces.
- It’s important to note that eucalyptus oil can be irritating to the skin in some individuals, so be sure to do a patch test before widespread use.
Overall, eucalyptus oil is a natural and effective way to repel midges and enjoy the outdoors without constantly swatting away pests.
Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is derived from the lavender plant and has long been known for its calming and soothing properties. Not only is it a popular essential oil for relaxation, but it is also an effective natural midge repellent. The strong scent of lavender oil is known to repel midges and other insects, making it a great option for those looking to avoid bug bites while enjoying the outdoors.
One of the benefits of using lavender oil as a midge repellent is that it is safe and non-toxic, unlike many chemical-based insect repellents. Simply dilute a few drops of lavender oil with water or a carrier oil and apply it to your skin before heading outside. Alternatively, you can also use lavender oil in a diffuser to create a bug-free zone in your home or outdoor space.
In addition to its insect-repelling properties, lavender oil is also known for its skin-soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits, making it a versatile option for those looking to protect their skin while keeping bugs at bay. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or simply enjoying a picnic in the park, lavender oil can be a valuable addition to your natural midge repellent arsenal.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil is a natural midge repellent that has been used for centuries. The strong, minty scent of peppermint oil is highly effective at keeping midges away. Simply apply a few drops of peppermint oil to your skin or clothes to create a barrier that will deter midges from coming near you.
How it works
Peppermint oil contains compounds that are known to repel insects, including midges. These compounds create a strong scent that masks the CO2 and body odors that attract midges, making it difficult for them to locate you.
- Apply a few drops of peppermint oil to your skin or clothes before heading outdoors.
- Reapply every few hours to maintain its effectiveness.
- Always do a patch test before applying peppermint oil to your skin to check for any sensitivities.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is known for its strong insect-repellent properties. It has a strong scent that mosquitoes, midges, and other insects find unpleasant, making it an effective natural repellent. When applied topically, tea tree oil creates a barrier that can prevent midges from landing and biting. Additionally, tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties that can help soothe and heal any insect bites that may occur.
Neem Oil
Neem oil is a natural insect repellent derived from the neem tree. It has a strong smell that repels midges and other biting insects effectively.
- Neem oil can be applied directly to the skin to keep midges at bay.
- Alternatively, neem oil can be diluted with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or olive oil before application.
- For best results, apply neem oil to exposed skin areas before heading outdoors.
- Some people also mix neem oil with essential oils like lavender or mint for added protection and a pleasant scent.
Lemon Eucalyptus Oil
Lemon eucalyptus oil is a natural repellent that has been found to be effective against midges. The oil is derived from the lemon eucalyptus tree, native to Australia. It contains a compound called PMD (para-menthane-3,8-diol) which has been shown to be as effective as DEET in repelling insects.
How to Use
To use lemon eucalyptus oil as a midge repellent, simply apply a small amount to exposed skin. You can also mix it with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, for a more spreadable solution. Reapply as needed, especially if you are sweating or swimming.
It is important to note that lemon eucalyptus oil should not be used on children under the age of 3. Always do a patch test before applying to a larger area of skin to check for any reactions.
Lemongrass Oil
Lemongrass oil is a popular natural repellent against midges due to its strong citrus scent. The scent of lemongrass masks the body odor that attracts midges, making it an effective deterrent against these pesky insects.
How to Use Lemongrass Oil
There are a few ways to use lemongrass oil as a midge repellent:
| 1. Dilute lemongrass oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil, and apply it to exposed skin. |
| 2. Add a few drops of lemongrass oil to a diffuser or spray bottle with water and spray it around the area to repel midges. |
Cedarwood Oil
Cedarwood oil is a natural insect repellent that has been used for centuries to ward off bugs, including midges. The strong, woody scent of cedarwood oil is known to confuse and repel insects, making it an effective natural alternative to chemical repellents.
| Cedarwood oil is | Known for its insect-repelling properties |
| It is | Safe for use on skin and clothing |
| Can be diluted | With a carrier oil and applied directly to the skin |
Geranium Oil
Geranium oil is a natural repellent that can help keep midges at bay. It is derived from the geranium plant and has a pleasant floral scent that repels insects. This oil works by masking the scent of the host that attracts midges, making it harder for them to find you.
How to Use Geranium Oil:
To use geranium oil as a midge repellent, simply dilute a few drops in a carrier oil, such as coconut or almond oil, and apply it to exposed skin. You can also add a few drops to a diffuser to keep midges away from your living space.
Note: It is important to do a patch test before using geranium oil as a repellent, as some people may be sensitive to it. Avoid using near the eyes or on broken skin.