Posted on by Bessheen Baker

Buzz Away: Plant-Powered Protection from Mosquitoes and Ticks

What is Buzz Away?

Buzz Away is an innovative, naturally derived mosquito and tick repellent. Unlike traditional repellents that rely on synthetic chemicals like DEET or permethrin, Buzz Away uses a proprietary blend of plant-based essential oils as its active ingredients.

The result is a non-greasy, pleasant-smelling spray that provides reliable, field-tested protection for adults and children alike. Its recently updated formula introduces a fresh new scent profile and enhanced effectiveness, making it an ideal companion for any outdoor activity.

Key Active Ingredients

Buzz Away’s effectiveness comes from a carefully balanced blend of five plant-based active ingredients, each with a well-documented history of insect-repelling properties:

Geraniol: A naturally occurring compound found in rose oil, citronella, and lemongrass. Geraniol is one of the most effective plant-based insect repellents available and serves as the cornerstone of the Buzz Away formula.

Peppermint Oil: Beyond its refreshing, cooling scent, peppermint oil is a potent natural deterrent for mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects. It also provides a pleasant sensory experience on the skin.

Citronella Oil: Perhaps the most widely recognized natural insect repellent in the world, citronella oil has been used for decades to create a protective barrier against mosquitoes.

Thyme Oil: A powerful essential oil with strong insect-repelling properties. Research has shown thyme oil to be particularly effective against mosquitoes, rivaling some synthetic alternatives.

Clove Oil: Rich in eugenol, clove oil acts as a natural insecticide and repellent. It adds both efficacy and a warm, spicy depth to the Buzz Away scent profile.

Other Ingredients

The active essential oils are carried in a base formulation that may include:

  • Purified Water
  • Vanillin (a natural compound derived from vanilla, contributing to the updated scent profile and also shown to extend the duration of repellent activity)
  • Emulsifiers and stabilizers to ensure even distribution of essential oils

Note: Buzz Away is free from DEET, permethrin, and other synthetic chemical insecticides. It is designed to be non-greasy and gentle on the skin.

 

Benefits

Buzz Away offers a compelling combination of safety, effectiveness, and user experience:

Proven Effectiveness: Independently field-tested and laboratory-researched to provide reliable protection against both mosquitoes and ticks.  

Plant-Based Formula: All active ingredients are naturally derived from essential oils, offering an alternative to harsh synthetic chemicals.

Family-Friendly: Formulated to be gentle enough for use by the whole family, including children.Non-Greasy Feel: Unlike many conventional repellents, Buzz Away absorbs cleanly without leaving an oily or sticky residue on the skin.

Fresh, Pleasant Scent: The updated formula features a sophisticated new scent that blends the familiar aromas of citronella and peppermint with warm notes of vanillin, thyme, and clove — a far cry from the harsh chemical smell of traditional repellents.

Enhanced Formula: The recently updated formulation not only smells better but has been specifically engineered to deliver improved effectiveness against mosquitoes and ticks compared to the original version.

No Harsh Chemicals: Free from DEET, permethrin, and other synthetic pesticides that many families prefer to avoid.

How to Use

  • Application: Shake well before use. Spray liberally onto exposed skin and clothing before heading outdoors.
  • Reapplication: Reapply every 1–2 hours, more frequently if swimming, sweating heavily or toweling off.
  • Coverage: For best results, ensure even coverage on all exposed areas. Avoid contact with the eyes and mouth.
  • For Children: Apply to your own hands first, then rub onto the child’s exposed skin. Avoid applying to a child’s hands, as children often put their hands in their mouths.

 

Who Should Consider Using Buzz Away?

Buzz Away is an excellent choice for anyone who:

  • Spends time outdoors — whether hiking, camping, gardening, or simply enjoying the backyard.
  • Wants effective insect protection without synthetic chemicals like DEET or permethrin.
  • Is looking for a repellent that is safe and gentle enough for the whole family, including children.
  • Is bothered by the greasy feel or unpleasant odor of conventional repellents.
  • Lives in or is visiting an area where mosquitoes and ticks are prevalent.
  • Prefers products made with naturally derived, plant-based ingredients.

 

Precautions and Side Effects

Buzz Away is made from naturally derived ingredients and is generally well-tolerated, but users should keep the following in mind:

Skin Sensitivity: As with any product containing essential oils, a small number of individuals may experience mild skin irritation. If irritation occurs, discontinue use and wash the affected area with soap and water.

Patch Test: If you have sensitive skin or known allergies to essential oils, consider performing a small patch test on the inner forearm before full application.

Eye and Mouth Contact: Avoid spraying directly onto the face. Instead, spray onto hands and then carefully apply to the face, avoiding the eyes and mouth.

Not a Sunscreen: Buzz Away does not provide sun protection. If using with sunscreen, apply sunscreen first and allow it to absorb before applying Buzz Away.

 

Safety Information

EPA Registration: Insect repellent claims and safety are regulated by the EPA. Always follow the product label instructions for safe and effective use.

Natural Does Not Mean Risk-Free: Plant-based essential oils are biologically active compounds. Use as directed and keep out of reach of young children.

Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme heat. Keep the cap tightly sealed to preserve the potency of the essential oils.

Disposal: Dispose of empty containers in accordance with local regulations.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How is Buzz Away different from DEET-based repellents?

Buzz Away uses a blend of plant-based essential oils — including geraniol, peppermint oil, citronella oil, thyme oil, and clove oil — instead of synthetic chemicals like DEET. This means you get effective protection against mosquitoes and ticks with a pleasant scent, a non-greasy feel, and no concerns associated with synthetic insecticides.

Has Buzz Away been tested for effectiveness?

Yes. Buzz Away has been proven effective through independent field testing and laboratory research. The updated formula has been specifically enhanced to improve its repellent action against both mosquitoes and ticks.

Is Buzz Away safe for children?

Buzz Away is formulated to be family-friendly and gentle enough for children. For young children, apply to an adult’s hand first, then rub onto the child’s exposed skin, avoiding the hands, eyes, and mouth. Always supervise use on children.

What does Buzz Away smell like?

The updated formula features a fresh, pleasant scent that combines the familiar aromas of citronella and peppermint with warm, inviting notes of vanillin, thyme, and clove. Users consistently describe it as surprisingly enjoyable for a bug spray.

How often should I reapply Buzz Away?

For best results, reapply every 1–2 hours, or more frequently after swimming, heavy sweating, or toweling off.

Available at Herbs Etc.

Buzz Away by Quantum Health is available at Herbs Etc. in three convenient sizes to suit every need:

2 oz. for $8 – Purse, pocket, or travel

4 oz for $12 – Day trips and everyday use

8 oz for $19 – Family-sized for extended outdoor adventures

Bug Control without DEET, a Greasy Feel or a Chemical Smell

Buzz Away proves that effective insect protection doesn’t have to come at the cost of your comfort or your peace of mind.

By harnessing the natural repellent power of geraniol, peppermint oil, citronella oil, thyme oil, and clove oil, this innovative formula delivers the kind of reliable, field-tested protection your family deserves — without DEET, without grease, and without that chemical smell.

The updated formula takes things even further with a fresh, inviting scent and enhanced performance against mosquitoes and ticks. Whether you’re heading out for a hike, tending the garden, or watching fireflies with your kids, Buzz Away lets you enjoy the outdoors the way it was meant to be enjoyed: bite-free.