Natural Tick, Mosquito, and Gnat Repellent
Natural Tick, Mosquito, and Gnat Repellent: The Herbal Blend I Use Around My Home
Created by Herbal Journal & OpenAI
Living in Pennsylvania means sharing the outdoors with some less-than-welcome visitors. Between ticks, mosquitoes, gnats, and biting flies, simply enjoying a summer evening on the deck can sometimes feel like a battle.
Over the years, I’ve experimented with a variety of natural insect-repellent blends. While no natural product can guarantee complete protection, I have found that a thoughtfully crafted essential oil blend can make a noticeable difference when spending time outdoors.
As a photographer, herbalist, and someone who enjoys working outside whenever possible – and it’s not TOO hot, I wanted something that smelled pleasant, was gentle on the skin, and could help discourage multiple types of insects at once.
The result is the blend I currently use.
My Personal Outdoor Repellent Blend
My formula combines nourishing carrier oils with a variety of aromatic essential oils traditionally used to deter insects.
Carrier Oils
- Grapeseed Oil
- Jojoba Oil, Almond Oil
Essential Oils
- Rosemary Essential Oil
- Lemon Eucalyptus Essential Oil
- Citronella Essential Oil
- Lavender Essential Oil
- Cedarwood Essential Oil
- Lemongrass Essential Oil
- Peppermint Essential Oil
- Geranium Essential Oil
Water Phase
- Mint Tea or Mint Hydrosol
The blend creates a fresh herbal scent that is far more pleasant than many commercial insect repellents while still providing an aromatic barrier against common outdoor pests.
Why These Ingredients?
Each ingredient contributes something different.
Lemon Eucalyptus
Lemon eucalyptus is one of the most studied botanical insect repellents. It is often considered one of the strongest plant-based options available and is frequently used against mosquitoes and ticks.
Cedarwood
Cedarwood has long been associated with repelling insects. Its woody aroma makes it a useful addition to blends intended for outdoor use.
Citronella and Lemongrass
These classic summer scents are well known for their ability to help discourage mosquitoes. Together, they create a bright, fresh aroma while contributing to the blend’s effectiveness.
Geranium
Geranium essential oil is frequently included in natural tick-repellent formulas and complements the stronger citrus notes nicely. And, it doesn’t hurt that when it’s combined with Rose, it’s one of my favorite scents!
Rosemary, Lavender, and Peppermint
These oils provide additional aromatic complexity and may help discourage various nuisance insects while creating a scent that people generally enjoy.
Does It Work?
In my experience, yes.
I have found this blend particularly helpful against:
- Mosquitoes
- Gnats
- Biting flies
- Ticks
Mosquitoes and gnats seem especially sensitive to the combination of citronella, lemongrass, peppermint, and lemon eucalyptus.
Ticks are often more persistent, which is why I still recommend common-sense precautions such as tick checks, protective clothing, and showering after spending time in wooded or grassy areas.
Using It Around the Deck
One of my favorite uses for this blend is spraying it around the deck before spending time outdoors.
I apply it to:
- Railings
- Deck furniture
- Steps
- Entry points
- Areas where people gather
The goal isn’t to create an impenetrable barrier but rather an aromatic zone that insects find less inviting.
Many people focus on spraying themselves but forget that mosquitoes often rest in nearby vegetation and shaded areas during the day. Treating the immediate outdoor living space can make sitting outside much more enjoyable.
A Better Idea: Two Separate Formulas
While discussing this topic recently, I realized there may be an even better approach.
My personal spray contains grapeseed and jojoba oils, which are wonderful on the skin. However, repeated application to deck surfaces can eventually leave a slight oily residue.
A better solution may be creating two separate versions:
Personal Body Spray
- Grapeseed Oil
- Jojoba Oil
- Essential Oils
This version is designed for skin and clothing.
Deck and Patio Spray
- Mint Hydrosol or Strong Mint Tea
- Witch Hazel
- Essential Oils
Shake well before each use and spray railings, deck furniture, steps, and gathering areas. Because the essential oils are not fully solubilized, separation is normal. Shake thoroughly before each use.
Herbalist’s Note: For my own use, I prefer witch hazel in outdoor sprays because it helps disperse the essential oils, dries quickly on surfaces, and avoids leaving behind the oily residue that can occur when carrier oils are sprayed repeatedly on decks and patio furniture.
Safety Considerations
Natural does not automatically mean risk-free.
Before using any essential oil blend:
- Perform a patch test on a small area of skin.
- Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
- Use caution around pets, particularly cats.
- Keep concentrated essential oils out of reach of children.
- Discontinue use if irritation develops.
Individuals who are pregnant, nursing, have medical conditions, or are taking medications should consult a qualified healthcare professional before using essential oils therapeutically.
Final Thoughts
There is no perfect natural insect repellent, and no blend can guarantee protection from ticks or other biting insects. However, I have found that combining several well-known aromatic herbs and essential oils creates a practical outdoor companion that helps make gardening, photography, and evenings on the deck much more enjoyable.
For me, the added benefit is that it smells like a summer herb garden rather than a chemical spray.
And that’s something I can happily live with.
Have fun this summer!
Kathy ~ Hilltop Herb Woman
Kathy is an herbalist/naturopathy practitioner who is constantly researching to expand her knowledge. She came to herbalism after her migraine medicine was suddenly removed from the market and she had to find something new. After discovering the magic of herbs she’s never looked back. She is accredited by the International Practitioners of Holistic Medicine (IPHM) View her courses of study.