Q: A friend recommended making a peppermint oil spray for bugs. While I’m trying to stay away from the dangers associated with chemical pesticides, I’m questioning whether an essential oil will really ...

Reader advice: Castor oil or peppermint oil are natural rodent repellents. They have an asphyxiating effect on rats, mice, chipmunks, moles, squirrels and shrews. A cotton ball with four to five drops ...

Peppermint oil has pest-repellent properties, but is not long-lasting repellent and can damage plants. Cedarwood oil is a more effective natural bug repellent for use in landscapes. For best results, ...