Creating your homemade cinnamon oil for mosquito repellent can be a fun, eco-friendly project that not only helps keep the pesky bugs at bay but also fills your home with a delightful aroma. This article will guide you through the process, the benefits, and safety precautions associated with using cinnamon oil as a mosquito repellent.
To make cinnamon oil for mosquito repellent, place cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon in a clear glass jar, cover with extra virgin olive oil, and let it sit in a sunny spot for 3-4 weeks, shaking it a few times a day. After this period, strain the oil and transfer it to a dark-colored jar for storage. To use, dilute the oil and mix it with other ingredients like lemongrass essential oil, witch hazel water, and distilled water to create a spray.
What Is Cinnamon Oil?
Cinnamon oil is derived from the bark or leaves of the cinnamon tree. It contains chemicals such as cinnamaldehyde, cinnamyl acetate, eugenol, and anethole, which are natural insect repellents.
The Benefits of Cinnamon Oil as a Mosquito Repellent
Cinnamon oil is a natural and effective mosquito repellent with several benefits:
- Repels Mosquitoes: The chemicals in cinnamon oil are natural deterrents for mosquitoes.
- Kills Mosquito Larvae: Cinnamon oil can kill mosquito larvae, helping to control the mosquito population.
- Prevents Egg-Laying: In higher doses, cinnamon oil can prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs, further reducing their population.
- Environmentally Friendly: Unlike synthetic chemical repellents, cinnamon oil is a more eco-friendly option.
- Pleasant Aroma: The unique and comforting smell of cinnamon oil makes it a more enjoyable option for users compared to other repellents.
Making Cinnamon Oil at Home
Here’s a simple process to make cinnamon oil at home:
Materials:
- Cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon
- Clear glass jar
- Dark-colored glass jar (amber or green)
- Extra virgin olive oil
Procedure:
- Place the cinnamon in the clear glass jar.
- Cover the cinnamon with the olive oil, leaving some headroom at the top of the jar.
- Shake the jar and set it in a sunny spot for a few weeks.
- During this period, shake the jar a few times a day.
- After 3-4 weeks, strain the oil through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
- Transfer the strained oil to the dark-colored glass jar for storage.
Safety Precautions
When making and using cinnamon oil, it’s important to observe certain safety precautions:
- Always dilute the oil before use.
- Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
- Use personal protective equipment like gloves.
- Be mindful of potential allergies.
- Consult with a medical expert before ingesting the oil.
- Keep away from heat, sparks, and open flames.
- Do not dispose of the oil in sewers or the natural environment.
Using Cinnamon Oil as a Mosquito Repellent
To use the homemade cinnamon oil as a mosquito repellent, create a spray by mixing it with other ingredients like lemongrass essential oil, witch hazel water, and distilled water. Spray the mixture directly onto your skin, avoiding the eyes and mouth.
Extending the Shelf Life of Homemade Cinnamon Oil
Proper storage can prolong the shelf life of your homemade cinnamon oil. Store the oil in a dark-colored glass container in a cool, dry, and dark place. Using a stable carrier oil like jojoba oil can also help extend its shelf life.
Homemade cinnamon oil can last up to a year with proper storage. Remember, the shelf life of your oil will depend on the shelf life of the carrier oil used.
In summary, making cinnamon oil at home for mosquito repellent is a simple, eco-friendly alternative to commercial products. It’s not only effective but also a delightfully aromatic solution to keep those pesky mosquitoes at bay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use cinnamon powder instead of cinnamon sticks?
Yes, you can use cinnamon powder instead of cinnamon sticks. However, if you use powder, the straining process may be a little more difficult as the powder is finer than the sticks.
How often should I apply the cinnamon oil mosquito repellent?
You can apply the cinnamon oil mosquito repellent every 2-3 hours or as needed. However, always remember to dilute the oil and avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
Can I use a different carrier oil instead of olive oil?
Yes, you can use other carrier oils such as jojoba oil, coconut oil, or almond oil. The choice of carrier oil can also affect the shelf life of your homemade cinnamon oil.
Can I use the homemade cinnamon oil on my pets to repel mosquitoes?
It is not recommended to use the homemade cinnamon oil on your pets without consulting a vet. Some essential oils can be harmful to pets, so it’s always best to check with a professional.
How much cinnamon oil should I mix with the other ingredients to create the mosquito repellent spray?
A general guideline is to use 10-20 drops of cinnamon oil for every half cup of witch hazel water or distilled water. You can adjust this ratio depending on your preference and sensitivity to the oil.
