Yes, it's about that time again. The time when we are no longer at the top of the food chain because we are subject to be feasted upon by flying, sucking, biting insects.

This mosquito season don't fret -- essential oils to the rescue!

In essential oils, God gave plants and flowers natural defenses against pests that would otherwise kill them.  They work just as effectively for people-protection against pests.

Probably the most familiar insect repellent essential oil is citronella, and possibly geranium. These are both very effective but also harsh to wear by themselves - so if you buy these oils for this purpose, make sure to dilute well with a carrier oil.

You may not know that peppermint oil (the subject of last week's tip) is also GREAT as an insect repellent! In fact, planting peppermint plants in areas you want to repell insects is an excellent gardening idea.

Other oils that are good to have around the house (to be featured in upcoming Medicine Cabinet Must-Have tips) also do wonderful double duty as insect repellent, such as lemon and eucalyptus. When shopping for eucalyptus, most stores carry eucalyptus globulus which is good, but eucalyptus radiata is even more effective against bugs, although a little harder to find.

Already been mosquito dinner? Some of the same repellant oils are also great for treating bites. Peppermint immediately cools the area and helps take the sting and itch away. Lavender does this as well while calming the nerves (or the upset youngster) at the same time.

If you don't want to mix your own repellent, we have an oil blend that works well called Instant-Ease. It's a blend of peppermint, lavender, geranium, tea-tree, frankincense and a touch of helichrysum: all great oils to repell insects and treat their bites.

Contact us today to learn how to use essential oils to repell all kinds of pests: moths, roaches, ants, etc.

P.S. Speaking of ants, for all of you aspartame consumers, sprinkle your favorite sweetener with this in it along any well-traveled ant trail close to your home. You'll be amazed to see that the ants will NOT travel that trail as long as the artificial sweetener is still around. Even ants know it'll kill you. So, if you're an aspartame junkie, I recommend you consider sprinkling it along your doors instead of on your cereal!  So now what can you use in your coffee? Keep on eye on future tips!!!