Every summer, millions of families spray DEET-based bug repellents on their children's skin before heading outside. It's become such a routine part of outdoor life that most people never stop to ask: is this actually safe?
The answer is complicated. And the alternative is more effective than most people realize.
What Is DEET?
DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) is a synthetic chemical developed by the U.S. Army in 1946 for use in jungle warfare. It works by confusing insects' olfactory receptors — essentially making you smell invisible to mosquitoes and other biting insects.
The EPA considers DEET safe when used as directed. However, studies have raised concerns about neurotoxicity with frequent high-dose exposure, skin absorption rates (DEET penetrates skin and enters the bloodstream), and adverse effects in children with repeated use.
What the NIH Research Shows
Research published in Scientific Reports — a peer-reviewed journal from the Nature Publishing Group — found that specific essential oil compounds, including those derived from coconut fatty acids and lemon eucalyptus OLE, provided protection against mosquitoes, biting flies, and ticks that in some test scenarios outperformed DEET at longer intervals.
The key is 'clinically meaningful concentrations.' A few drops of lavender in a diffuser is not a bug repellent. A properly formulated blend of seven specific essential oils at the right concentrations is a different thing entirely.
What Rooted Essentials Bug Shield Uses
Our Organic Bug Shield blends seven DEET-free essential oils — citronella, lemongrass, cedarwood, geranium, peppermint, rosemary, and lemon eucalyptus OLE — at concentrations informed by published research. The OLE (Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus) in our formula is the only plant-based ingredient officially recognized by the CDC as an effective mosquito repellent.
Our water-based formula uses alcohol-free witch hazel as the carrier — absorbs quickly, dries clean, no greasy residue. Our oil-based roller uses fractionated coconut oil — stays on skin longer for extended protection.
The Bottom Line
We're not telling you DEET doesn't work. It does. We're telling you there's a plant-based alternative backed by peer-reviewed research that works without putting a synthetic neurotoxic chemical on your child's skin every time you go outside.
"The Lord will keep you from all harm — He will watch over your life." — Psalm 121:7
No DEET. No synthetic chemicals. No harsh smell. Just effective, plant-based protection for your whole family.