Essential Oils for Pest Control (Learn How to Use Them)

Pests are one of the household’s terrors.

They bring so much damage to belongings and illnesses to human beings.

As much as we love to use pesticides to kill these creatures, you can’t risk the health of your family.

Which is why you need to use alternatives, such as essential oils, for pest control. Not only will these provide relaxation and other meditative effects to humans, but they also repel the pests that we abhor the most.

From peppermint oil for ants to citronella for mosquitoes, essential oils can help you protect your home while keeping your family and pets safe.

Let’s dive into how these oils work and why they’re becoming a go-to choice for natural pest control.

History of using essential oils for pest control

Before we start with the fundamentals of using essential oils for pest management, we need to know the story of how it all began.

It all started in ancient Egypt where they first used what we call ‘aromatherapy’ today. The Egyptians used essential oils for the rituals of incense, as well as for medicinal purposes.

In their culture, essential oils were also used for embalming purposes.

The wisest and most efficient physician during this period was Hippocrates from Ancient Greece. He is the first believer that massages are important for the health and well-being of his patients. Essential oils were his mode of healing the illnesses of patients.

At this same time, the Chinese and Indian civilization was studying how this can be used to benefit their fellowmen.

This was adopted by ancient Romans, who believed that hygiene was the key to a healthy life. They soon used essential oils for aromatic baths to promote their well-being.

During the dark ages, after the fall of the Roman Empire, the church encouraged people to be bathed with essential oils to cleanse them from their sins. During this period, they found out that these oils have anti-bacterial and anti-pest qualities.

This sparked a greater interest in essential oils during the Renaissance Period. This time, Paracelsus used essential oils to cure leprosy with several plant extracts.

Finally, in 1937, René-Maurice Gattefossé coined the term ‘aromatherapy’, from the works of Hippocrates. During this period, people sparked the natural health movement.

This brought people more interest in the properties of essential oils. Scientists and doctors from all around the world have sought to unleash other properties of essential oils that can be beneficial to mankind.

In the late 1980s, essential oils became more popular worldwide. It has been used for health and healing. Plus, it has been used as an alternative for harmful chemicals in the household.

Facts about essential oils

Now that we know how essential oils originated, we need to know some facts about these bounties.

These facts will enlighten us more about the innovations and findings by prior doctors. So, we’ll know how to properly use them.

1. Are essential oils actually oils?

This is a question that bugs millions of people on the planet.

According to specialists, there are only two types of oil – organic and mineral oils. Organic oil comes from the extracts of plants and animals. Mineral oils, on the other hand, are from fossilized organic materials, such as petroleum.

According to experts, essential oils are not categorized into either of the two.

They do not have ingredients that organic oils possess, such as fatty acids or lipids. Examples of organic oils are fish oil, animal fats, vegetable oil, and coconut oil – but not the oils that are extracted from selected plants and flowers.

Essential oils, such as lavender and geranium, fall under the loose definition of oils, which is a viscous liquid that cannot mix with water but can mix with other oils.

Even if essential oils do not have the properties that organic oils have, they are unique in their own ways because they possess several phytochemicals such as esters, ketones, terpenes, and phenols, among many others.

2. A small fraction of all the plant species have been evaluated for emulsifying oils

Out of the 391,000 plant species on the planet, only 450 are known to produce essential oils.

However, according to scientists, not all of these plants produce the kind of essential oils used for aromatherapy. Only about 150 of them are studied viable to become essential oils.

This is why these oils are valuable assets to human beings. It cannot be found anywhere.

It takes too much time and effort to find the right essential oil for the right purpose. To extract the oil, it entails a lot of effort and time.

Some oils are even more time-consuming than others.

You can understand why these are more expensive than the rest.

3. Dark-colored bottles are known to preserve essential oils better

This is a fact that you need to know so you can store essential oils in a more conserving way.

Do you ever wonder why you often see people store oils in tinted bottles with varying colors such as amber, blue, and violet?

This is not for design but a more effective storage unit.

Essential oils are sensitive to the sun’s rays. The reason why people store it in tinted glasses is so the container can prevent the rays of the sun from penetrating the oil which could affect its quality.

Scientists suggest storing essential oils in cool, dark places for better preservation.

Don’t store it in bathrooms as well, because the heat of the shower can affect its quality.

Essential oils that repel pests

This is what you have all been waiting for – the essential oils for pest control.

1. Basil Oil

The first one on the list is basil oil. According to a study in Thailand in 2001, when dengue and malaria were a great epidemic, essential oils were effective In repelling mosquitoes.

While these essential oils relax human beings, it is considered an irritant to pests.

In a study in 2014, they also found that oils can control dust mites with 97% to 100% effectiveness. This is why there was a spike in the production of these oils for the safety of people.

2. Citronella oil

Another essential oil for pest control is citronella.

This has been found as a plant-based repellent since 1948. This oil works as a mask to the scent of human beings, making it difficult for bloodsuckers to locate their targets.

It is for this reason that citronella oil is found to be one of the most appealing pesticides. Now, you can isolate this oil from pesticides and use them for your own safety.

3. Geranium Oil

Geraniol is the active chemical found in geranium oil.

Scientists have found it effective against mosquitoes, cockroaches, flies, ants, ticks, and fleas.

This is the reason manufacturers created scents and candles from geranium as a means of natural pest control.

4. Lavender Oil

We all know how calming lavender is, but it is also used for repelling pests.

This is also found useful in deterring cockroaches, fleas, ticks, and many more.

If you use it as a lotion, you can prevent bed bugs and other mites from piercing your skin.

5. Peppermint Oil

Peppermint oil is famous for its strong scent and sensation. It is one of the most prominent oils to use against bugs.

Studies show that peppermint oil provides 100% protection for about 150 minutes when applied to the skin.

However, with lower concentrations, it becomes less effective.

6. Tea Tree Oil

Doctors from all around the world use essential oil as a natural antibiotic. However, it is also found to control pests in the household. Scientists have proven that tea tree oil can control parasites such as lice, ticks, leeches, and fleas. This is the reason why it is a major ingredient of human and animal shampoo.

If your skin has bite marks from these pests, You can use this oil to soothe your irritated skin. With the help of tea tree oil, you’ll have a natural pest-repellent and an anti-inflammatory medicine at the same time.

How to use essential oils for pest control?

When using essential oils for pest control, following best practices ensures they’re effective, safe, and long-lasting. Here’s a detailed guide to help you maximize their potential.

Also Read:

• Essential Oils for Soap Making
• What is the Shelf Life of Essential Oils?
• Best Smelling Essential Oils for Diffuser

Best Practices to Adopt

1. Identify the Target Pest: Different pests react to different essential oils. Use oils specific to the pest you’re targeting, such as peppermint for ants or citronella for mosquitoes.
2. Clean and Prepare the Area: Before applying essential oils, clean the area to remove food crumbs, spills, or waste that might attract pests. A clean space enhances the effectiveness of essential oil treatments.
3. Test Before Use: Always test a small, inconspicuous area before widespread application to ensure the oils don’t damage surfaces or fabrics.

Choosing Quality Essential Oils

The effectiveness of your pest control depends on the quality of your essential oils. Keep these tips in mind:

• Look for Pure and Natural Oils: Choose oils labeled as 100% pure, therapeutic-grade, and free of synthetic additives or fillers.
• Check the Source: Opt for reputable brands that provide transparency about their sourcing and distillation methods.
• Store Properly: Keep oils in dark glass bottles away from sunlight and heat to preserve their potency over time.

Respecting Dosages and Dilutions

Essential oils are highly concentrated and need to be diluted properly to avoid harming yourself, your family, or your pets.

• Dilution Ratios: For most applications, mix 10–15 drops of essential oil with 1 cup of water or a carrier oil (like coconut or almond oil). For stronger applications, increase the oil slightly but never exceed 20 drops per cup.
• Children and Pets: Use fewer drops for households with children or pets, and always consult a veterinarian before applying oils to animals.
• Avoid Overuse: Reapplying too frequently can make the scent overwhelming and may cause irritation. Follow recommended intervals for application.

Applying at the Right Time

Timing is everything when using essential oils to control pests.

• Morning and Evening: Apply oils during these times when pests are most active, such as mosquitoes at dusk or ants during the day.
• After Cleaning: Always use essential oils on a clean surface. For example, spraying after vacuuming ensures oils penetrate more effectively.
• Consistent Application: Reapply every few days, as the scent diminishes over time. For severe infestations, daily application may be necessary initially.

Considering Synergies

Combining essential oils can amplify their pest-repellent properties.

• Blend Compatible Oils: For example, a mixture of citronella, lemongrass, and peppermint creates a powerful mosquito repellent.
• Use Complementary Carriers: Enhance your mixtures with natural carriers like witch hazel, apple cider vinegar, or alcohol for better dispersion.
• Experiment with Ratios: Test different combinations to find what works best for your specific pest problem and home environment.

Protecting Oneself

Safety is a top priority when working with essential oils:

• Wear Gloves: Always wear gloves when handling undiluted oils to avoid skin irritation.
• Ventilate the Area: Ensure good airflow while applying oils, especially in enclosed spaces.
• Avoid Contact with Sensitive Areas: Keep oils away from your eyes, nose, and mouth, and wash your hands thoroughly after use.
• Patch Test: If applying oils to your skin or clothing, test a small area first to rule out any allergic reactions.

The Best Essential Oils for Each Type of Pest and How to Use Them

Essential oils are a natural and effective way to keep pests out of your home. Here’s a breakdown of the best oils for specific pests and tips on how to use them effectively.

Related: How to Get Rid of Raccoons in Backyard for Good

Roaches: Eucalyptus, Tea Tree

Cockroaches are persistent pests, but eucalyptus and tea tree oils can help deter them. Eucalyptus has a fresh scent that roaches dislike, while tea tree oil has natural antibacterial properties, making it a double-duty solution for pest control and cleaning.

How to use:

• Mix 10 drops of eucalyptus oil or tea tree oil with one cup of water in a spray bottle.
• Add a few drops of dish soap to help the oil mix.
• Spray the mixture in areas where roaches frequent, like under sinks, along baseboards, and around garbage cans.
• Repeat every few days for consistent results.

Pro Tip: Avoid spraying directly on food surfaces, and always patch-test on surfaces to prevent damage.

Ants: Spearmint, Peppermint, Lemon

Ants are highly sensitive to the strong smells of spearmint, peppermint, and lemon oils. These oils disrupt the scent trails ants rely on to navigate and communicate.

How to use:

• Soak a cotton ball in a mix of 5 drops of peppermint oil, 5 drops of spearmint oil, and a few drops of lemon oil.
• Place the cotton ball near entry points like windows, doors, and cracks.
• Alternatively, make a spray by mixing the oils with water and spritzing along ant trails.

Did You Know? Lemon oil’s acidic properties can also help clean surfaces while repelling ants.

Flies: Rosemary, Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Basil

Flies are repelled by the potent aromas of rosemary, peppermint, eucalyptus, and basil. These oils are not only effective but also leave your home smelling delightful.

How to use:

• Create a fly-repelling sachet by placing a few drops of each oil onto a cloth or cotton ball.
• Hang the sachet near windows, doors, or garbage areas.
• For an instant solution, mix the oils with water in a spray bottle and mist areas where flies are a problem.

Bonus Tip: Planting fresh basil near doors and windows can complement your essential oil efforts.

Mosquitoes: Peppermint, Citronella, Lemongrass, Tea Tree

Essential oils like peppermint, citronella, lemongrass, and tea tree are well-known for their ability to repel mosquitoes. Citronella, in particular, is a staple in natural mosquito repellents.

How to use:

• Combine 10 drops of each oil with two tablespoons of carrier oil (like coconut or jojoba oil) to make a DIY repellent.
• Apply the mixture to exposed skin before heading outdoors.
• For indoor use, diffuse the oils or make a spray by adding them to water.

Safety Note: Always perform a patch test before applying essential oils to your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Spiders: Spearmint, Peppermint

Spiders are repelled by the sharp scent of spearmint and peppermint. These oils can act as a natural barrier to keep spiders out of your home.

How to use:

• Mix 10-15 drops of peppermint or spearmint oil with one cup of water.
• Spray the mixture around windows, door frames, and corners where spiders are likely to appear.
• Reapply weekly to maintain effectiveness.

Pro Tip: Peppermint oil is particularly effective when combined with white vinegar for a dual-action cleaning and repelling solution.

Fleas: Lavender, Lemongrass, Peppermint

If you’re dealing with fleas, lavender, lemongrass, and peppermint oils can help protect your home and pets. Lavender has calming properties that can also help soothe flea bites on humans and pets.

How to use:

• Add 5 drops of each oil to a cup of water, and spray onto pet bedding, carpets, and furniture.
• For pet use, mix a few drops with carrier oil and apply sparingly to their collars or fur. Always consult your vet first.

Caution: Never use essential oils directly on cats, as many oils can be toxic to them. For dogs, dilute heavily and use with caution.

FAQ: Using Essential Oils for Pest Control

Conclusion

Using essential oils for pest control is a smart and eco-friendly way to keep your home safe from pests without exposing your family to harsh chemicals.

With the right oils, proper application, and a little consistency, you can tackle everything from roaches to fleas naturally and effectively.

By making essential oils a part of your pest management routine, you’re not just protecting your home—you’re creating a healthier, greener environment for your loved ones.