Natural Repellent Trio (Lemon Eucalyptus, Cedarwood Atlas, and Lemongrass)

The Natural Repellent Trio is for anyone who is looking to protect their skin naturally from bugs and insects when outdoors. The essential oils in this trio offer a practical way to create a boundary that is safe for you and yours without the toxic elements found in traditional bug repellents. 

The essential oils in this trio do not need to be used at the same time, but rather can be synergistic when used together. Any of these essential oils could also be used in a diffuser for great benefit.

These are topical use oils, and this Trio contains the following: Lemon Eucalyptus, Cedarwood Atlas, and Lemongrass, 

1. Lemon Eucalyptus - A powerful top note that provides a higher content of citronellal than Citronella essential oil.
2. Cedarwood Atlas - Offers a wonderful base note that stays on the skin as a deterrent to mosquitoes who get past the vapor barrier of other top note essential oils.
3. Lemongrass - This is a popular essential oil traditionally used for repelling mosquitoes and in studies has been shown to have repellent capacity similar to DEET.

More Details

Possible Drop Ratio for Topical Application:

In Aromatherapy, one great carrier option for insect repellent is Sunflower Oil. Topical application of Sunflower oil is not viewed the same as internal use. Sunflower oil is heavier than Fractionated Coconut Oil and keeps the essential oils from evaporating more quickly, which is key for an effective insect repellent.  

Here is a possible example of a 5% dilution all-natural insect repellent:

Use 2 teaspoons of Sunflower oil (approximately 200 drops)

1.  Lemon Eucalyptus - 4 drops
2.  Cedarwood Atlas - 3 drops
3.  Lemongrass - 3 drops

Gently agitate the mixture for 1–2 minutes and apply. 

If you feel you need a stronger effect, then you can double the essential oil amount for a 10% dilution. A 5% would be the most you would want for young or sensitive skin.

Cautions for Carrier Oils: Those with ragweed or sunflower allergies should avoid Sunflower Oil.

Lemon Eucalyptus

Historically, this essential oil has been used as an insect repellent and respiratory support with a very fresh scent. It is seen as a powerful antiseptic with many uses for the body. Lemon Eucalyptus tends to have a calming effect on the mind and body.

Cedarwood Atlas

Cedarwood is the gentle giant and is an essential oil that helps us stay grounded in very difficult or stressful situations. Due to its high sesquiterpene content, it has a calming effect on the mind and the nervous system. Historically, it has been used for many different skin maladies as it is so gentle on the skin.

Lemongrass

Similar to Litsea Copaiba (May Chang) in aroma, but with a stronger scent; Lemongrass has been shown to offer a more effective defense against insects while providing a calming aroma for the body and mind.

Cautions

• Avoid internal use. Lemon Eucalyptus, Cedarwood, or Lemongrass should not be taken internally.

• Dilute with Fractionated Coconut Oil or Sunflower Oil when applying topically, as some skin types are more sensitive than others.

• Not for use during pregnancy or nursing.

Key Benefits 

Lemon Eucalyptus Benefits

• Antiseptic, Respiratory Support, Sedative Like Properties, Anti-infectious

Cedarwood Atlas Benefits

• Eases feelings of tension, can repel insects, may enhance concentration, mucolytic capacity, helpful for respiratory challenges and skin issues when used with a carrier oil.

Lemongrass Benefits

•  Antibacterial, Anti-inflammatory, Analgesic, Astringent, Antiseptic, Digestive, Tonic

For more uses on the specific essential oils in this trio click on the links below:

Lemon Eucalyptus, Lemongrass, Cedarwood Atlas