Herbal Remedies for Ticks, Mosquitoes & Horseflies: Natural Protection + Soothing Relief

Spring and summer bring more time outdoors—and unfortunately, more bites from ticks, mosquitoes, and horseflies. While conventional repellents work, many people are turning to herbal remedies to protect themselves naturally. As a herbalist and outdoor-loving mama, I’ve got your back with two easy DIY recipes: a powerful insect repellent spray and a soothing bite salve, both made with tried-and-true herbs.

Let’s dive in!

Herbs That Naturally Repel Insects

These herbs can be used in sprays, infused oils, salves, or even grown in your garden to keep bugs at bay.

Tick-Repelling Herbs

• Rose Geranium – Highly effective against ticks (especially the essential oil).
• Lemongrass – Contains citronella compounds ticks dislike.
• Lavender – A gentle repellent that’s safe for all ages.
• Thyme – Great in tinctures or oils.
• Lemon Eucalyptus – Scientifically proven to repel ticks and mosquitoes.

Mosquito-Repelling Herbs

• Catnip – Reportedly 10x more effective than DEET in some studies.
• Basil – Easy to grow and naturally mosquito-repelling.
• Peppermint – Smells great and repels bugs.
• Citronella (from Lemongrass) – A well-known repellent.
• Neem – Effective and safe in carrier oils.

Horsefly-Repelling Herbs

• Clove – Works well when diluted.
• Tea Tree – Repels flies and helps prevent infection.
• Witch Hazel – A soothing astringent base for sprays.

DIY Herbal Insect Repellent Spray

This blend smells amazing and keeps pests away without harmful chemicals. Safe for most skin types and kid-friendly (just spot test first).

You’ll Need:

• 1 cup witch hazel (or vodka)
• 1/2 cup distilled water
• 20 drops Rose Geranium essential oil
• 15 drops Lemon Eucalyptus essential oil
• 10 drops Peppermint essential oil
• 10 drops Lavender essential oil
• Optional: 1 tbsp vegetable glycerin (helps oils blend and stay on longer)

Directions:

1. In a glass spray bottle, combine 1 cup witch hazel with all essential oils.
2. Add 1/2 cup distilled water.
3. Optional: Add glycerin and shake well to combine.
4. Shake before each use. Spray on clothes, shoes, socks, or exposed skin. Avoid face and eyes.

DIY Soothing Herbal Bite Salve

This healing salve calms itching, inflammation, and minor skin irritation from insect bites. It’s gentle, herbal, and effective.

You’ll Need:

• 1/2 cup olive oil (or almond oil)
• 2 tbsp dried plantain leaf
• 1 tbsp dried calendula flowers
• 1 tbsp dried chamomile
• 1 tbsp beeswax pellets
• 5 drops tea tree essential oil (optional)

Directions:

1. In a double boiler or heat-safe jar, combine oil and herbs.
2. Warm gently for 1–2 hours (don’t let it boil).
3. Strain through cheesecloth.
4. Return strained oil to heat, add beeswax, and stir until melted.
5. Remove from heat, stir in tea tree oil, and pour into tins or jars.
6. Let cool completely before sealing. Store in a cool, dark place.

Use as needed on bug bites to reduce itching, swelling, and irritation.

Herbal remedies are a beautiful way to reconnect with nature while protecting your family from pesky bugs. Whether you’re gardening, hiking, camping, or just playing in the yard, these plant-powered recipes will keep your skin happy and bite-free.

If you try these, tag me on Instagram @drinkadash and show me your creations—I’d love to see them in action!