• Chiggers are also known as redbugs due to their distinctive color.red fuzzy bug image by robert mobley from Fotolia.com
  
  Chiggers are the juvenile form of the trombiculid mite, also known as "redbugs." They cause excessive itching by injecting enzymes into skin tissue to break them down, then sucking them from the skin to consume them, leaving red bumps or welts behind. Essential oils are a natural way of repelling chiggers, as certain oils are unpleasant to them while being harmless to humans.
  
  

Lavender Oil

• Lavender essential oil is clear with a slight yellow tinge. It has a sweet herbaceous scent that repels many insects, including chiggers. Mix 30 drops into 4 oz. of water and pour into a clean spray bottle. Shake the bottle well and spray your ankles, shoes and socks and any other areas that may be attacked by chiggers to avoid being bitten.
  
  

Sage Oil

• Spanish sage essential oil is the safest form of sage oil to use as other forms are extremely potent and potentially toxic. The oil is clear and runny with a strong herbaceous scent. To repel chiggers with Spanish sage oil, add 5 drops to 2 tsp. of pure aloe vera or jojoba oil and rub into your skin in high-risk areas such as the ankles, shins and wrists.
  
  

Lemongrass Oil

• Lemongrass essential oil is strong scented and yellow in color. Its lemony odor repels insects although it is generally pleasant to humans and pets. To discourage chiggers, add 3 drops into the fabric softener compartment in your washing machine when washing your outdoor clothes. This method also adds a fresh scent to your laundry and can be used on towels and sheets.