Ann Lovejoy, the noted Seattle gardener, writer and organic-gardening proponent, has suggested a recipe for catnip-and-rosemary mosquito-chasing oil:

* 2 cups catnip, stemmed
* 1 cup rosemary, cut in 6-inch sprigs
* 2 cups grapeseed oil

Roll herbs lightly with a rolling pin and pack into a clean jar. Cover with oil, seal jar and place in a cool, dark cupboard for two weeks. Strain into a clean jar, seal and refrigerate. To use, rub on exposed skin.

One word of caution — before applying large quantities of any herbal repellent solution, patch-test yourself for any allergy to the herbs by applying a small amount to your forearm for a couple of days; if there is no skin rash, redness or other reaction, you’re probably safe to use the herbs on a larger area of skin.

This Daily Aromatherapy Tip is brought to you by AromaThyme