My nana swears by this DIY mosquito repellent recipe. Here’s how it works

 

🌿 My Nana Swears by This DIY Mosquito Repellent Recipe — Here’s How It Works

Some of the best remedies don’t come from a store — they come from the wisdom passed down through generations. My nana has always believed in the power of simple, natural ingredients, and one of her favorite homemade creations is a DIY mosquito repellent that actually works.

Growing up, summer evenings at her house meant garden dinners, twinkling lights — and, of course, plenty of mosquitoes. While everyone else reached for chemical sprays, Nana would bring out a little glass bottle filled with her all-natural blend. It smelled amazing, kept the bugs away, and left our skin feeling soft instead of sticky.

Now that I’ve tried it for years myself, I can confidently say: Nana was right.

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🌸 Why Natural Mosquito Repellent Works

Many store-bought repellents rely on DEET or synthetic chemicals, which can irritate sensitive skin. Nana’s version uses essential oils that mosquitoes can’t stand — but humans find fresh and soothing.

Mosquitoes are attracted to body heat, carbon dioxide, and certain skin odors. Natural ingredients like lemon eucalyptus, lavender, citronella, and peppermint help mask those scents, making you less appealing to these pesky insects.

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🧴 Nana’s DIY Mosquito Repellent Recipe

Ingredients:

• ½ cup witch hazel (or vodka — it helps preserve the mix)

• ½ cup distilled water

• 10 drops citronella essential oil

• 10 drops lemon eucalyptus oil

• 8 drops lavender essential oil

• 5 drops peppermint or tea tree oil

Instructions:

1. Pour witch hazel and water into a clean spray bottle.

2. Add all the essential oils.

3. Shake well before each use.

4. Spray on exposed skin or clothing before heading outside.

💡 Tip: Store in a cool, dark place and use within a few months.

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🌼 How It Works

Each ingredient in Nana’s recipe plays a role:

• Citronella & Lemon Eucalyptus: Repel mosquitoes by blocking their ability to sense human scent.

• Lavender: Calms skin and adds a pleasant floral note.

• Peppermint or Tea Tree Oil: Adds antibacterial benefits and a refreshing tingle.

• Witch Hazel: Helps blend the oils and dries quickly on skin.

The result? A light, clean-smelling mist that keeps bugs at bay — no chemicals, no harsh residue, and no worries.

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🌙 A Tradition That Still Works Today

Even today, every time I spritz Nana’s mosquito repellent, it brings back memories of her laughter in the garden and those long summer nights under the stars. It’s proof that sometimes, old-fashioned wisdom really is the best kind.

If you’re looking for a simple, safe, and effective way to stay bite-free this summer, give this recipe a try. Your skin — and the planet — will thank you.