This is a tip to discourage flying insects such as mosquitos, sandflies, gnats and horseflies from biting you when you’re sitting down to enjoy a meal al fresco on a balmy summer’s evening.
Mix 4 drops of geranium essential oil and 4 drops of rosemary essential oil, into 40ml of carrier oil, and apply it liberally over exposed skin, especially around the ankles, every hour. If you have sensitive skin, use only two drops of each oil. NOTE: This mixture is best used only in the evening as essential oils can make your skin especially sun sensitive.
This tip is brought to you by Gemma Hurditch, Naturopath. Gemma’s upbringing in Australia meant that she encountered various biting insects. “Obviously the first line of defence is covering up,” says Gemma, “and not using perfumes, soaps or skincare preparations that are going to attract insects, for example those containing lactic acid. Luckily, this mix of oils has a great fragrance to us, but one that’s discouraging to mosquitos and flies. Whilst there are other effective natural insect-repellents available, such as citronella, lemon grass and tea tree, they can be harsher on young or sensitive skin. The above mixture is gentle enough for children with sensitive skin.”
