Oh, Vanilla. There’s nothing better than to start your day with an awesome smell of vanilla. Apparently, it can also be used as a gnat repellent as well. Since we’re all struggling with the same problem with these pests. I have decided to help you out a bit. Here’s how you can utilize Vanilla:
Buy Vanilla!
Okay, I don’t mean Vanilla ice cream when I say this – but it doesn’t hurt to stop and shop a bit for ice cream. You can usually find this around your neighborhood. It can be found in a health food store.
What you’re looking for here is a pure vanilla extract. This is usually sold in small bottles. They got it from vanilla and vanilla beans.
It would be best for you to purchase something original, make sure that you’re holding a pure vanilla. You should be cautious, too. There are stores which comes with sugar and alcohol, that wouldn’t do the trick.
If there’s anything you should know, it gives you the opposite effect. Yup, gnats would be coming over in no time.
Find a Container
Check out your cabinets for a small container, you don’t have to purchase a new one. An old would already suffice. After securing a bottle, go and get 1 tablespoon of extract and add it in.
Combine it with Water
From what I have mentioned above, you got yourself a tablespoon of vanilla. Make sure the water is in equals with the measurement. It should also be of 1 tablespoon as well.
If you want my advice, this could go well when it’s being combined with other oils. Consider using citronella or peppermint oil, too. Of course, the water comes as a priority.
When adding any of the oil I’ve mentioned, it makes a really good insect repellent. It works effectively as well.
Apply To Exposed Skin
You may shake the mixture properly to ensure that it has been combined well. After you have done that, you may use cotton balls – or any cloth that’s cotton based – and apply it to your body.
Once you have successfully done this method, put it back into a container for an easy time reusing the product. Personally, I would bring it in my bag for when I’m traveling.
Reapply as Needed
Now, here’s the concern. It comes with a time limit. This is effective for about 30 minutes. It’s going to be a problem for when you’re camping as you have to keep on applying every now and again.
The important part is on your neck and arms, any area of your skin that’s exposed. Let’s say you’re camping in an area where it’s colder than usual. This would lead to quick evaporation.
Also, you have to consider rain and perspiration as well. You’ll have to reapply it less than the 30 minute mark.
Wrapping It Up!
Vanilla sure is useful, and also makes you smell awesome. The troublesome part is the need of constant reapplication. Although it’s fine if you’re not going anywhere. Overall, it’s a pretty useful mixture for a quick solution.
