In Florida, the two most prevalent afflictions are sunburns and bug bites. One, you acquire through being outside in the sun too much, and the other is acquired at any time you try to avoid the sun. The mosquitoes are merciless at dawn and dusk. They are bred and born in the numerous, man-made, drainage lakes that prevent southern and central Florida from turning altogether into swampland. Aside from the mosquitoes, biting flies, and fire ants, there are ‘No-See-Ums.’ When I first heard a native Floridian say the word, I walked around calling the miniscule, biting bugs (smaller than fruit flies), ‘Nah-zee-ums,’ (as in ag-nosium), thinking I had just picked up a new specie-specific insect name- Not so. Ceratopogonidae, biting midges, and/or No-See-Ums, terrorize hunters, fishermen, campers, picnickers, hikers, gardeners, walkers, and anyone who just wants to stand outside in the shade. Popular bug sprays and citronella are sometimes not strong enough, and are ridiculously expensive when considering how much you need to reapply in Florida.
All the natural and homemade recipes I found are comprised of two basic components: A carrier, acidic liquid, vodka, rubbing alcohol, apple cider vinegar, witch hazel, Listerine, etc. Plus, a list of strongly aromatic essential oils such as, citronella, peppermint, lemongrass, cedar, pine, lavender, or rosemary. I tried a few different mixes, and the no-see-ums would not yield! After three different combinations, I found a mix that is strong and not (nauseously) caustic-smelling.
Ingredients:
• Witch Hazel
• Listerine
• Tea Tree Oil
Method:
I bought a handful of spray bottles at the dollar store to give as gifts before our annual group bike-ride that ends in a picnic across town. Start by mixing together two parts witch hazel to one part Listerine. Next, add 10 drops of tea tree oil per cup of your desired amount.
This mix is not harmful if you spray it in your hair, on your clothes, or accidentally in your mouth (not to mention, tragically, on your food). However, be sure to close your eyes, spray your face, and wipe away drips before opening them again. Dress the bottles with your own message, spray all over your body, and go outside to play!
Helpful Links
- Tall Bottle Labels • I chose the “Persimmon Flower” style in Tuxedo.
More homemade gift ideas from Zoe…
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Zoe is born and bred in Portland, Oregon and recently moved to Orlando, Florida. She studied sociology and philosophy at University of Oregon, and is currently employed at a law firm. Presently, she devotes her time to being lost in the tropical vegetation of her backyard, sun-scorched bike rides, repurposing everything she can think of, quirky cooking, and promoting the creative lifestyle that she loves.
Thank you Thank you, I have been getting eatin alive here in Flagstaff, AZ. I have tried everything, i thought i had bed bugs.. i even threw my bed away!! (cool story bro) anyway, I am headed to the store right now and and I am praying your method works! this has been going on for 6 months and i can’t take it anymore.
I feel for you Nikki! Another trick I learned from living in the sunshine state is to wear a heavily scented fabric-softener sheet tucked just about everywhere– but that’s just a practical tool, not so much a gift. Let me know how it works for you!
-Zoe
OMG….if this works I will be forever indebted to you. NO ONE else gets bitten, but the No-See-Ums and Mosquitos eat me alive. I can go walk in the evening, and bugs will still be biting after I am home. I cannot wait to try this. thanks so much.
I will try this tonight and let you know how it goes. Thanks for the tip.
Curious to hear everyone’s results. I plan on picking up the necessary tools and making a batch this weekend. Any helpful tips on what to do or products that soothe when you are already eaten alive? I have about 40 bites all over me and I have had enough!
Thanks ladies.
I got the ingredients but what proportion of each one do I use?