Essential oils give plants their characteristic scents because they contain volatile aroma compounds that vaporize into the air, naturally protecting plants from predators and other environmental threats. The characteristic scents of essential oils can provide protection for humans and animals as well, because they act as natural repellents to pests. Applying essential oils alone or in a carrier oil prior to outdoor activities provides effective relief against unwanted attention from bugs.

doTERRA created TerraShield particularly for outdoor protection—a select blend of essential oils, including ylang ylang, cedarwood, catnip, lemon eucalyptus, litsea, arborvitae, nootka, and vanilla bean absolute, all of which possess specific chemical compounds known to protect against environmental annoyances. The floral, herbaceous and pungent blend can be used by family members at the home and outdoors.

According to Rick Lattin, a generational organic farmer from Fallon, Nevada, essential oils can be helpful in preventing pests from taking up residence in a garden. First, he recommends keeping the area clean and free of debris and hiding places for bugs. Then, he suggests putting 10 drops of any essential oils that naturally repel bugs such as peppermint, cedarwood, geranium, clove, arborvitae, rosemary and lemongrass, into a spray bottle with water and spraying the area of concern, preferably when the weather is not too hot. This proactive preparation provides outdoor enjoyment.

Jen and Jeff Frey lead one of the largest teams of essential oil users, sharers and entrepreneurs in the world. For more information, call 717-503-0673/717-580-5139, email [email protected] or visit PureOilCouple.com.