This DIY bug repellant balm has become a seasonal staple in my herbal cabinet, combining the gentle power of lemon balm with a blend of essential oils to naturally deter pesky insects.

I recently made a bug bite balm, but figured I should try to prevent bugs from biting me in the first place! I always hated how often commercial bug sprays left my skin feeling sticky or irritated. I wanted a natural alternative that was soothing, effective, and smelled pleasant.

I made my own natural bug spray with essential oils years ago but wanted to try an herbal bug balm as well.

Lemon balm, known for its calming scent and insect-repelling properties, seemed like the perfect place to start.

I love making this balm in small batches and keeping a tin in my bag during the warmer months. It’s perfect for hikes, gardening, or simply enjoying a summer evening on the porch.

It’s easy to make, gentle on skin, and safe enough for kids too! Here is my bug repellant salve recipe!

DIY Bug Repellant Balm showing the front

Why Use Lemon Balm?

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a member of the mint family known for its natural insect-repelling properties.

It contains compounds like citronellal and rosmarinic acid that help deter mosquitoes and other bugs. It also soothes the skin, making it a great choice for a balm base.

Bug-Repelling Benefits of Essential Oils

I also made sure to use some pretty powerful essential oils for helping to deter the bugs as well. Here are what I used and some research about each:

Citronella Essential Oil

Citronella is one of the most well-known natural insect repellents. I even made a natural citronella candle to fight the bugs on our patio!

It’s especially effective against mosquitoes, thanks to its high citronellal and geraniol content. Citronella masks the human scents that attract mosquitoes and other biting insects, making it harder for them to find you.

Studies have shown it to be a safe and effective DEET alternative when applied properly and reapplied as needed.

Cedarwood Essential Oil

Cedarwood has a warm, woodsy aroma and works as both an insect repellent and an insecticide. It disrupts the pheromones of insects, making it harder for them to communicate and navigate.

It’s particularly helpful for deterring mosquitoes, moths, fleas, and ants. It also adds grounding, calming properties to your balm—especially nice for kids and sensitive users.

Tea Tree Essential Oil

Tea tree oil has strong antimicrobial properties and is known for repelling mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects. It’s not only effective at keeping bugs away, but it also soothes itchy or irritated skin—making it a great dual-purpose addition for a bug balm.

It’s especially useful if you’re making a balm that can be used both before and after bites [source].

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DIY Bug Repellent Balm Recipe

Now you know all the benefits, here is my super simple DIY bug balm to repel mosquitos! This will make about 4 ounces.

Ingredients

Lemon balm
Carrier oil (I generally use avocado oil)
½ cup infused oil
2 tablespoons beeswax
15 drops essential oils (I did citronella, cedarwood and tea tree)
2 oz containers

Instructions

Fill a clean jar halfway with lemon balm.

Pour your chosen carrier oil over the herb to fully cover it.

Let the mixture infuse for a few weeks, shaking occasionally. When ready, strain the oil.

In a glass jar, combine 1/2 cup of the infused oil with 2 tablespoons beeswax.

Melt the mixture slowly in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until fully melted.

Allow the mixture to cool slightly before adding your essential oils.

Pour into containers and let set overnight before capping.

Notes

Essential oils for bugs: Citronella, cedarwood, lavender, lemongrass, eucalyptus, and tea tree are great options.
Customize it: You can swap out lemon balm for other herbs like catnip, lavender, or rosemary. Lemon balm just gives it a boost.
If your balm is too soft, remelt and add a bit more beeswax. If it’s too firm, remelt and add a touch more infused oil.

How to Use

Apply a small amount of the balm to exposed areas of skin before heading outdoors. Reapply every few hours or after heavy sweating. It’s great for ankles, wrists, and behind the ears.

Storage and Shelf Life

Store in a cool, dry place. This balm should last for up to a year if kept away from direct heat and light.

Bug Repellant Balm

Materials

Lemon balm
Carrier oil (I generally use avocado oil)
½ cup infused oil
2 tablespoons beeswax
15 drops essential oils (I did citronella, cedarwood and tea tree)
2 oz containers

Instructions

Fill a clean jar halfway with lemon balm. Pour your chosen carrier oil over the herb to fully cover it. Let the mixture infuse for a few weeks, shaking occasionally. When ready, strain the oil.
In a glass jar, combine 1/2 cup of the infused oil with 2 tablespoons beeswax.
Melt the mixture slowly in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until fully melted.
Allow the mixture to cool slightly before adding your essential oils.
Pour into containers and let set overnight before capping.

Notes

Essential oils for bugs: Citronella, cedarwood, lavender, lemongrass, eucalyptus, and tea tree are great options.
Customize it: You can swap out lemon balm for other herbs like catnip, lavender, or rosemary. Lemon balm just gives it a boost.
If your balm is too soft, remelt and add a bit more beeswax. If it's too firm, remelt and add a touch more infused oil.
Store in a cool, dry place. This balm should last for up to a year if kept away from direct heat and light.