An Essential Oil Dust Mite Spray Recipe
Combatting Dust Mites Naturally: A Deep Dive into Essential Oils and Other Strategies
Dust mites might not be an engaging topic of conversation, but they're an issue we can't simply ignore - especially if you are one of the many people who are allergic to them. These microscopic creatures live in dust, feeding on dead skin cells, and they thrive in upholstered furniture, carpets, and beddings. Unfortunately, dust mites are incredibly prevalent and can trigger uncomfortable allergic reactions.
While these tiny pests are a common issue, there's an unexpected weapon we can utilize in our fight against them: essential oils. So, let's explore the fascinating world of essential oils and how they can be used to discourage dust mites, creating a healthier home without resorting to harsh chemicals.
Understanding Dust Mites: The Invisible Intruders
Dust mites are microscopic arachnids that reside in our homes by the millions, feeding on the dead skin cells found in dust. These tiny critters can cause severe allergy symptoms, making what should be a comforting and safe haven - your home - an environment of discomfort.
In fact, dust mite allergies rank among the most common types, alongside allergies to mold, pollen, and animal dander.
Holistic Solutions to Tackle Dust Mites
The first line of defense against dust mites is cleanliness. Regularly launder your linens, vacuum carpets, and maintain good air circulation in your home with effective ventilation or air filters. For those severely afflicted by dust mites, replacing carpeted areas with hardwood flooring and regularly mopping can provide significant relief.
However, to amp up your fight against dust mites, creating an essential oil spray can be the solution.
Harnessing the Power of Essential Oils Against Dust Mites
Geraniol, a natural compound found in certain essential oils, has been shown to be incredibly effective against dust mites, even more so than DEET (1). One key source of Geraniol is Palmarosa essential oil (Cymbopogon martinii var. motia), making it an ideal ingredient for a homemade dust mite spray.
How to Make Essential Oil Dust Mite Spray
Here's a simple recipe for a natural dust mite spray using Palmarosa and Lavender essential oils. Lavender adds a soothing, aromatic element to the mix, making it perfect for use on bed linens and blankets.
Palmarosa Essential Oil Dust Mite Spray Recipe
Ingredients:
8 fl oz (240 ml) Water
60 drops Palmarosa essential oil (Cymbopogon martinii var. motia)
20 drops Lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia)
14 ml Solubol (dispersant)
In an 8 oz (240 ml) spray bottle, combine the water and Solubol. Add the essential oils, secure the lid, and shake well. Solubol ensures the essential oils remain dispersed in the water, but it's recommended to shake the bottle before each use.
After washing your linens in hot water, lightly spray them with the solution. Repeat this process throughout the day. Consistency is key; frequent use of the spray prevents dust mites from returning, keeping your linens fresh and allergen-free.
Through understanding the science of dust mites and utilizing natural resources such as essential oils, we can create safer, healthier homes - free from pesky, allergenic dust mites.
This spray is also great for upholstery and carpets.
I recommend making a fresh bottle every few weeks since it's not made with a preservative.
Dust Mite Defense Inhaler
You can also make an inhaler to help calm your reactions against dust mites.
Geranium essential oil contains geraniol, so I'm including it in this inhaler recipe—along with two essential oils that are wonderful for supporting respiratory health: Sweet Orange and Cedarwood!
Dust Mite Defense Inhaler
8 drops Sweet Orange essential oil (Citrus sinensis)
5 drops Cedarwood essential oil (Juniperus virginiana)
3 drops Geranium essential oil (Pelargonium x asperum)
Add the drops of essential oil to the cotton part of a blank inhaler. Then snap the bottom of the inhaler into place. That's it! (Making an inhaler is simple!)
Be sure to use your inhaler often to stay ahead of any sniffles that might be waiting to develop.
Stick With It!
Reducing dust mites in your home naturally is a process. You can do it! Keep your home very clean and well-ventilated, use your Palmarosa Essential Oil Dust Mite Spray, and keep your inhaler handy.
You can learn more ways to calm your allergies (without harmful chemical products) in our free video class, Reduce Allergies Naturally Using Essential Oils.
You'll learn which essential oils to use for your own natural cleaning products, five effective recipes for calming your symptoms, how to get to sleep during allergy season, and more.
Research Reference:
1. Jeon JH, Kim HW, Kim MG, et al (2008) Mite-control activities of active constituents isolated from Pelargonium graveolens against house dust mites. Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology 18(10): 1666-1671
