All of us have been bugged by ants at any point in our lives. It might be because of food you accidentally left uncovered on top of your table, or unwashed dishes in your sink. Due to these scenarios, you will definitely end up seeing a trail of ants in those areas. This situation will surely give you goosebumps, as if you are watching a horrifying film on screen. What’s more is you definitely would want to ward them off right away. The good news is there are essential oils to repel ants.
Peppermint Essential Oil
This is perhaps the gentlest among all solutions you can have for your ant problem. Great for daily use and with a fragrant scent that will not irritate the nose, this oil does a lot of wonders when it comes to repelling ants preying on your food or anything else in your home. It is also great for repelling mosquitoes. You can put some on a cotton ball and leave it where the ants usually go. You can also dab a piece of cotton with peppermint oil over common ant trails.
Cinnamon Leaf
This is considered among the most potent remedies for ant invasion. You can place cinnamon sticks near windows or sprinkle cinnamon spice on doorways. The special version of the oil has ant-repelling properties and can interrupt an ant trail in an instant. Look for an essential oil with a 20% potency to effectively ward off ants.
Cedarwood Essential Oil
Cedarwood is no different from other essential oils that we are mentioning here when it comes to repelling bugs. In fact, cedar trees have long been used to ward off these pests. Cedarwood essential oil has that distinct aroma that bugs, including ants, definitely hate. It would be good to use one that has been extracted from the cedarwood trees of Nepal, Morocco, US, and China.
Lemongrass Essential Oil
Lemongrass has citral and citronella compounds which make them great for insects of all kinds – from mosquitoes to ants. The lemongrass essential oil carries a light floral scent, and a lemony aroma that is usually energizing and uplifting. When using it to ward off ants, you will definitely not be bothered by its mild citrusy fragrance. It can be a good deodorizer as well.
Recipes for Essential Oils to Repel Ants
There are different methods with which you can make use of essential oils in order to keep ants away from your home. Some would combine citrus with peppermint and tea tree oil, plus water. When placed in a spray bottle, this can last you days or even weeks. Some use each essential oil solely to ward off pests.
Taking Precautions
It is important to take necessary precautions when using any of the above-mentioned essential oils to ward off ants or other pests in the home. By taking such measures, you will definitely be safer from any harm. Most people recommend a mixture of a few drops of essential oils with water, placing it inside a spray bottle after for use in the next couple of days.