Keep bugs at bay – The natural way

There’s nothing like sharing stories around a campfire under the starlit African sky or watching your children chase fireflies at dusk. Unfortunately, the great outdoors also has a not‑so‑great side: swarms of mosquitoes and other biting insects.

For many families, the default solution has been to reach for a chemical‑laden spray. Popular insect repellents often contain synthetic chemicals such as DEET or picaridin. While effective, these compounds aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, especially if you value botanical ingredients or have sensitive skin. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that repellents should be used only on exposed skin or clothing and never near the eyes or mouth, highlighting how careful application is required even with mainstream products.

At SOiL, we believe that enjoying nature shouldn’t mean coating yourself in harsh chemicals. Our family‑run business is built on a vertically integrated and rooted in organic farming principles.

We grow, distill, bottle and package many of our essential oils on our own farm in KwaZulu-Natal, where organic farming practices are applied. What we don’t produce ourselves, we source from trusted partners who meet rigorous organic and ethical standards. Because we cut out middlemen and avoid commission‑driven sales models, we’re able to offer high‑quality aromatherapy products at fair prices.

Natural wellness should be accessible, not a luxury, and our new Natural Insect Repellent embodies that philosophy.

Meet SOiL’s natural insect repellent spray

A botanical approach to outdoor living. That’s the idea behind our new spray, available in 50 ml (travel) and 100 ml (family) sizes. The formulation is 100 % natural in origin and completely DEET‑free, using a purposeful blend of essential oils traditionally used in outdoor environments. These botanicals have long been used in outdoor blends where insects are part of the environment, bringing both function and a fresh aromatic profile.The active component of lemon eucalyptus oil (PMD) has been widely studied and is commonly used in outdoor insect repellent formulations. Our blend brings together carefully selected botanicals to create a plant-based alternative designed for real outdoor moments. Individual results may vary, and users should always reapply as directed.

Here’s what’s inside:

• Cyclized eucalyptus citriodora oil (oil of lemon eucalyptus) – Derived from the leaves and twigs of the lemon eucalyptus tree, this oil’s active component, PMD, has demonstrated several hours of mosquito repellence in controlled studies. The EPA notes that some products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus may not be suitable for children under three years old, so always follow label directions carefully.
• Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus) leaf oil – Known worldwide for its grassy, citrus aroma, citronella has a long history of use in candles and sprays designed for outdoor environments where insects are present. Its vibrant scent contributes to our spray’s fresh character.
• Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica) bark oil – Warm, woody notes from cedarwood add depth to the fragrance. Cedarwood oil is often used in natural formulations for its calming aroma and its traditional use in household and outdoor applications.
• Clove (Eugenia caryophyllus) flower oil – Clove oil lends a spicy kick and contains eugenol, a component used in some commercial repellent formulations.
• Tagetes minuta oil – Extracted from the South African wild marigold (khakibos), tagetes oil has a history of traditional use in outdoor environments, contributing a green, herbaceous note to the blend.
• Peppermint (Mentha piperita) leaf oil – The cool, minty aroma of peppermint rounds out the formula. Peppermint oil is often used in natural outdoor blends due to its strong, fresh scent.

These oils are carried in a base of natural ethanol and propanediol, allowing the spray to dry quickly on the skin. The result is a herbaceous‑citrus scent with subtle woody and mint undertones. Pleasant, fresh and designed to be worn comfortably outdoors.

How to use it

Using a natural repellent effectively still requires following basic safety practices. The EPA advises applying repellents only to exposed skin or clothing, not under clothing. To use our spray, shake the bottle well and apply to arms, legs and other exposed areas.

For your face, spray a little onto your hands and then gently pat on; avoid spraying directly near your eyes or mouth. Reapply as needed, especially after swimming or intense physical activity. Remember that natural products may need more frequent application than heavy‑duty synthetics, so keep the bottle handy during outdoor adventures.

Although plant‑based repellents are generally gentle, discontinue use if you notice redness or irritation. Our formula contains no synthetic preservatives or dyes, but essential oils are potent natural substances, always do a patch test if you have sensitive skin.

The SOiL difference: From farm to shelf

What sets SOiL apart is our farm‑to‑shelf philosophy. As a South African, family‑run company, we manage the entire process, from cultivating plants on our certified organic farm to distilling the oils and bottling the final product. This vertical integration ensures purity, quality and traceability.

We also source complementary oils from trusted global partners who meet strict organic and ethical standards. Because we avoid multi‑level marketing schemes and inflated branding budgets, we can offer premium formulations at accessible prices. Our broader product range includes certifications such as ECOCERT COSMOS-certified products within our wider range, KIWA BCS Öko-Garantie, Fair for Life, and GMP, reflecting our commitment to transparency and responsible production.

Designed for real life: Travel, adventure and home

Whether you’re going on safari, camping in the Drakensberg or simply braaiing in your backyard, our natural insect repellent is crafted to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.It’s about taming the distraction – so you can fully immerse yourself in the moment. The compact 50 ml bottle is ideal for backpacks, handbag compartments or the glove box, while the larger 100 ml size ensures the whole family is covered. The spray dries quickly thanks to its alcohol base, leaving no sticky residue. The fresh, uplifting scent makes it pleasant to wear, even when you’re not swatting bugs. Because our formulation is DEET‑free and alcohol‑based, it’s also suitable for use over light clothing such as t‑shirts or hats, just be sure to avoid delicate fabrics like silk.

Our repellent is also cruelty‑free and vegan, aligning with our broader sustainability mission. The product carries certifications from organisations such as Beauty Without Cruelty and The Vegan Society of South Africa, giving you confidence that it aligns with ethical standards. Production takes place on our farm in KwaZulu‑Natal, keeping the supply chain short and the carbon footprint minimal.

Outdoor tips beyond repellent

While a spray provides essential protection, combining it with good habits can make your outdoor time more enjoyable:

• Cover Up: Wear long sleeves and trousers in light colours to make it harder for mosquitoes to reach your skin.
• Choose Timing: Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk. Plan activities for midday when possible, or be extra vigilant during peak times.
• Remove Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. Empty buckets, kiddie pools and plant saucers regularly.
• Use Nets and Screens: Sleeping under a mosquito net and ensuring windows and doors are screened adds another layer of protection.

Frequently asked questions

Conclusion: Embrace the outdoors, naturally

South Africa is blessed with stunning landscapes, from coastal dunes to inland forests. Bugs are part of these ecosystems, but they don’t have to keep you indoors. SOiL’s Natural Insect Repellent offers a thoughtfully formulated, plant-based alternative for enjoying the outdoors with confidence.

As a family-run company committed to responsible farming practices, ethical sourcing and fair pricing, we’re proud to bring you a product that aligns with our values: pure, considered, and plant-based.

Pack a bottle on your next adventure and experience the difference a little botanical know-how can make.

Discover our Natural Insect Repellent and explore our full range of essential oil blends designed to support your outdoor and everyday rituals.