How to make cinnamon oil for ants?

How to Make Cinnamon Oil for Ants?

Cinnamon oil is a natural and non-toxic way to repel ants from your home or garden. Ants detest the smell and taste of cinnamon, and by making your own cinnamon oil, you can keep them away without using harmful chemicals. In this article, we will guide you through the simple process of making cinnamon oil for ants.

Why Cinnamon Oil Works

Ants have a highly developed sense of smell and taste, which allows them to detect food sources and navigate their surroundings. Cinnamon oil interferes with their ability to communicate and navigate, causing them to avoid areas where the oil is present.

Materials Needed

To make cinnamon oil for ants, you will need:

• 1 cup of dried cinnamon bark or leaves
• 1/2 cup of carrier oil (such as coconut, olive, or jojoba oil)
• Cheesecloth or a coffee filter
• A clean glass jar with a lid

Instructions

1. Dry and Grind the Cinnamon: Dry the cinnamon bark or leaves in a warm oven (150°F) for 1-2 hours. Once dry, grind the cinnamon into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
2. Mix the Cinnamon Powder with Carrier Oil: Combine 1 cup of cinnamon powder with 1/2 cup of carrier oil in a small bowl.
3. Steep the Mixture: Transfer the cinnamon-oil mixture to a clean glass jar and cover it with a lid. Let it steep in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day or two to help the mixture steep evenly.
4. Strain the Oil: After the steeping process, use cheesecloth or a coffee filter to strain the oil into a clean glass jar. Discard the solids and reserve the oil.
5. Store the Oil: Transfer the cinnamon oil to a clean glass bottle and store it in a cool, dark place. You can use the oil as needed or store it for up to 6 months.

Tips and Precautions

• Always dilute the cinnamon oil with a carrier oil, as it can be irritating to skin and mucous membranes.
• Use protective gloves and eyewear when handling the cinnamon oil.
• Avoid ingesting cinnamon oil, as it can be toxic in large amounts.
• Keep the oil away from children and pets to avoid accidental ingestion.

Using Cinnamon Oil for Ants

There are several ways to use cinnamon oil to repel ants:

• Spray: Mix 10-15 drops of cinnamon oil with 1 cup of water and spray it around ant trails, entry points, and areas where ants are present.
• Dust: Mix 10-15 drops of cinnamon oil with 1 cup of baking soda or cornmeal and sprinkle it around ant trails and areas where ants are present.
• Diffuse: Add 5-7 drops of cinnamon oil to a diffuser and allow it to spread throughout your home or garden.

Comparing Cinnamon Oil to Other Ant Repellents

Conclusion

Cinnamon oil is a simple, non-toxic, and effective way to repel ants from your home or garden. By making your own cinnamon oil using the steps outlined in this article, you can save money and avoid using harmful chemicals. Remember to use caution when handling the oil and to store it in a safe place.