Basic Stuff- Non Toxic Bug Spray

Southern Bug Spray – Non toxic

1.5 packed cups fresh lemon balm leaves
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 teaspoon chopped mint leaves (spear or pepper or shisho) - Optional, but very nice
2 cups water

Combine and boil for 2-3 minutes, then set aside to cool
Strain and put in opaque spray bottle, then store in fridge.

Lemon Balm – bugs hate it
Ginger – Bugs don’t like it, also anti inflammatory
Mint – bugs hate it and it’s really nice on your skin

Obviously, adjust to your liking. This works for us in the NC foothills area. Neighbors just created a pond (because they came from the city), so you can imagine the increase in bugs, snakes etc (head thonk).

This combo works for about an hour before needing reapplication. Your milage may vary based on your body chemistry and your environment. Formula experimentation is encouraged.