Bug-Free in Tobago: The Ultimate DIY Lavender Salve for Natural Protection
Imagine this: You’re lounging on a pristine Tobago beach at sunset, the warm breeze brushing against your skin. The only downside? Mosquitoes and pesky bugs trying to ruin the moment. Most people instinctively reach for commercial bug sprays—but have you ever considered what’s really in those bottles? You need this lavender salve in your life!
Why You Should Rethink Bug Sprays
If you’re still on the fence about ditching conventional bug sprays, try this simple test: Spray some on a patch of grass or a plant in your yard. Within hours—or at most, a day—you’ll notice the grass turning brown and dying. If it’s that toxic to plants, imagine what it’s doing to your skin.
The good news? There’s a non-toxic, skin-loving alternative that keeps bugs at bay without the harmful effects: my homemade lavender salve.
The Benefits of Lavender Salve as a Bug Repellent
This all-natural salve is more than just a bug deterrent. It’s deeply nourishing, moisturizing, and smells divine. Here’s why it works:
- Lavender Essential Oil – Naturally repels mosquitoes and other insects while soothing the skin.
- Shea Butter & Coconut Oil – Hydrate and protect your skin, leaving it soft and healthy.
- Beeswax – Helps create a barrier on your skin, locking in moisture and repelling bugs.
Unlike traditional bug sprays that dry out your skin or cause irritation, this lavender salve nourishes while protecting you from bites.
DIY Lavender Bug Repellent Salve Recipe
Want to make your own? This easy recipe is packed with skin-loving ingredients and powerful bug-repelling essential oils. The Tobago heat keeps this blend the perfect consistency for an easy, smooth application.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup coconut oil (moisturizing & antibacterial)
- ¼ cup shea butter (deeply nourishing & healing)
- 2 tbsp beeswax pellets (helps solidify the salve & create a protective barrier)
- 20 drops lavender essential oil (calming & repels insects)
- 10 drops lemongrass essential oil (boosts bug-repelling power)
- 10 drops cedarwood essential oil (keeps mosquitoes & ticks away)
Instructions:
- In a double boiler (or a heat-safe bowl over a pot of simmering water), melt the coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax pellets together. Stir until fully melted.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly (but not solidify).
- Add the lavender, lemongrass, and cedarwood essential oils, stirring well to combine.
- Pour the mixture into small tins or glass jars. Let sit at room temperature until fully solidified.
- Store in a cool, dry place and use as needed to keep bugs away while keeping your skin nourished!
Alternative Essential Oils for Natural Bug Repellent
I have been making mine with 40 drops of lavender essential oil only. However, lavender is just one of many essential oils that work wonders against insects. Here are some other skin-safe, effective options:
- Lemongrass – Contains citronella, a well-known mosquito repellent.
- Eucalyptus – Proven to repel mosquitoes, especially when blended with other essential oils.
- Peppermint – A refreshing scent that keeps mosquitoes, ants, and even spiders away.
- Tea Tree – Antibacterial and effective against a variety of insects.
- Cedarwood – Repels mosquitoes, flies, and ticks while offering a rich, grounding aroma.
You can customize your salve by adding a combination of these oils for a stronger, more personalized bug repellent.
How to Use
Apply this lavender salve generously to exposed skin before heading outdoors. It’s perfect for beach days, hikes, or relaxing on your veranda without the constant swatting. Yes – this truly works. My husband and I went horseback riding at dusk in the bush. I had put the salve on prior to heading out and I was bug bite free. Rich on the other hand was not so lucky and now we don’t leave the house without a jar of this salve on hand.
Enjoy Tobago, Bug-Free & Chemical-Free
With this nourishing, non-toxic alternative, you can enjoy Tobago’s natural beauty without the worry of bug bites—or harmful chemicals. Ditch the toxic sprays and embrace the power of nature!
Have you tried natural bug repellents before? Let me know in the comments!
