How to Use Tea Tea Oil as an Insect Repellent

Tea tree oil can be an effective natural insect repellent thanks to its strong aroma and antimicrobial properties. While chemical bug sprays often contain harsh and controversial compounds like DEET, tea tree oil provides a plant-based alternative to deter pests like mosquitoes, ticks, and flies. Here’s how to harness the insect-repelling power of tea tree oil safely:

Choose 100% Pure Oil

For maximum potency, use a high quality 100% pure tea tree essential oil from a reputable brand. This ensures you get the active compounds like terpinen-4-ol that provide repellent effects. Check that the oil is steam-distilled from Melaleuca alternifolia leaves.

Dilute Before Use

Tea tree oil must always be diluted with a carrier oil or lotion before applying to skin. This helps avoid irritation. Good carrier oils include coconut, almond, jojoba, olive, or avocado oil. For adults, mix 2-4 drops of tea tree oil per teaspoon of carrier oil. Use less for children.

Do a Patch Test

Before wider use, do a patch test by applying a bit of diluted tea tree oil mix to your inner arm. Check for any redness or itching over the next day. This helps identify potential allergic reactions before exposing more skin.

Apply Topically

Rub a thin layer of the diluted oil over all exposed skin. Key areas to treat include arms, legs, neck, and face but avoid eyes, nostrils and lips. Reapply every few hours for ongoing protection when outdoors. The tea tree oil scent repels mosquitoes while also masking human odors that attract them.

Use in Sprays

Add 10-15 drops of tea tree oil per 1 cup of water in a spray bottle. Mist your body when going outside, or spray tents, picnic tables, patios and other outdoor gathering spaces. The lingering aroma keeps bugs away.

Make Natural Repellent Soaps

Add 5-10 drops of tea tree oil per 2 ounces of castile or homemade soap. Use these antimicrobial soaps regularly when outdoors to deter insects. The residue left on skin keeps repelling pests even after washing.

Other Uses

Put a few drops of tea tree oil on pet collars or dog bandanas to protect them against pests too. Place cotton balls soaked in diluted oil around entryways. Or simmer a pot of water mixed with several drops of tea tree oil indoors to drive away indoor flies or mosquitos.

Tea tree oil makes a versatile natural repellent. With responsible use, it can keep mosquitoes, ticks and nuisance insects at bay for the whole family. Ensure proper dilution and precautions to safely harness its insect-repelling powers.