How to Make Your Own Horse Insect Spray With Essential Oils

Flies are a terrible nuisance to horses. During the spring and especially the summer months, flies can be a plague, landing on the horse's eyes, ears, nose, mouth and anywhere else they can bite or drink secretions. While there are many chemical treatments exist to help with fly problems, holistic alternatives can work as well.

Things You'll Need

  • Spray bottle Water Essential oils--Eucalyptus, Tea Tree, Lavender, Garlic
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Fill your spray bottle to the 3/4 mark with lukewarm water. Make sure the bottle is spraying well before you mix in the oil.

    • 2

      Add in a half and half mixture of lavender and eucalyptus or tea tree oil to the water, and shake thoroughly.

    • 3

      Spray your horse thoroughly with the mixture, avoiding the eyes. Saturate problem areas, like the lower legs.

    • 4

      Mix and match carefully. When you mix garlic with other essential oils, such as lavender oil, the smell produced can be repellent to more than just insects.

    • 5

      Experiment with mixing other essential oils that are more pleasing to the human sense of smell. Sandalwood and citrus oils are often used for insect repellent, and while they may not be as effective or as long-lasting as other oils, they may be the best choice for short-term use while you are around the horse.