As we were relaxing at a small family gathering, on the 4th of July, my 2-year old granddaughter swiped at her leg. We asked what had happended – she explained, “I got bit”.
Yes, relaxing on the patio, in the cool evening air, is one of our favorite things to do. You might find “just the two of us” on the patio playing a rousing game of Qwirkle. This summer we are also looking forward to spending some “pool time” with our family.
As my granddaughter attested to, summer is also the time when we see more pesky creatures than we care to. Mosquitos, flies, and ticks also enjoy this time of year. No one wants to be woken up in the middle of the night scratching a bite they never knew they had. And if you’ve ever known anyone that has experienced Lyme or Zika you’ll know they’re two of the most debilitating diseases on the planet. (I’m familiar with people who have had each while living and playing in their cozy Southern California neighborhoods)
So how can we protect ourselves from these pesky and harmful creatures and still have fun?! You could run to the store and purchase a DEET spray. I suggest NO! Why, the jury is still out on “just how harmful DEET is” to children, pregnant women along with you and me. If you look at this article from the EPA there are more “don’ts” than there are ‘do’s” I’d like to offer some naturally safe alternatives.
Research shows us that diffusing or using candles made with essential oils containing geraniol and linalool repelled significantly more mosquitoes than the unprotected control. Citronella, Lemongrass and Bergamot are high in geraniol. While Lavender is high in linelool. A 2015 research shows topical application of lemongrass essential oil provided 74–95% protection for 2.5 hours against two types of mosquito.
I’d like to propose a few simple summer outdoor recipes to protect you and your family.
Bug Repellent Spray: In a glass spray bottle mix, 2 oz purified water, 2 oz witch hazel, 10 drops each Lavender, Citronella, and Lemongrass Young Living essential oil. Spray on as needed.
DIY Bug-Off Floating Candle: In a 16 oz Mason jar layer 6 slices of lemon and/or lime slices, 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary . Add 10 drops each *Purification and Citronella Young Living essential oil. Fill with distilled water. Add a floating candle. You’ll love the fragrance and appreciate the absence of flying/crawling critters.
Get rid of that itch! Apply 1 drop Young Living Peppermint essential oil directly to the bite. (This has been a lifesaver for me!) NOTE: if you have sensitive skin please add a dime size of carrier oil to this before dropping on.
Heal & Dry out those bites: Use a 5 ml glass rollerball. Mix 6 drops each Lavender and Tea Tree and Frankincense Young Living essential oil with the balance being coconut oil. Use 1-3 times daily.
Simple Daily Insect-Off: Apply & rub in 2 drops Young Living Purification* oil to the bottom of each foot.
Citronella Candle Bowl: Check out this DIY video
Now that you have that summer protection from the critters let’s enjoy a summer recipe together:
Delicious Limeade:
2 cups crushed ice
1 cup of water
Fresh fruit (strawberries, cherries, etc.)
1-2 drops Lime Vitality essential oil
Directions:
Fill a blender with ice and water and essential oil. Blend. Top fresh fruit. Savor this tasty drink.
Joining our Tribe is the best way for you to begin your wellness lifestyle. It is my passion for you to live your best life.
Any questions reach me @ DebPsalm18.2@gmail.com
Deb
*Purification is a blend of Citronella, Lavandin, Lemongrass, Rosemary, Myrtle, and Tea Tree essential oils. Each of these oils can be found at YoungLiving.com When you order please enter #3524510 as enroller and sponsor. Thank-you!
Grounded Living 