Essential Oil Insect Repellent Recipe
The Benefits of Natural Insect Repellents
Essential oil insect repellent recipe. In recent years, there’s been a significant shift towards natural living, and one area where this is evident is in the use of natural insect repellents. Unlike their chemical counterparts, natural insect repellents offer a host of benefits. First and foremost, they are free from synthetic chemicals, making them a safer choice for your skin and overall health. Synthetic repellents often contain DEET, which, although effective, can cause skin irritation and other health issues with prolonged use. Natural repellents, on the other hand, leverage the power of essential oils and other plant-based ingredients to keep bugs at bay without the risk of harmful side effects.
Moreover, natural insect repellents are environmentally friendly. Chemical repellents can have detrimental effects on the environment, contaminating water sources and harming wildlife. By using natural alternatives, you’re not only protecting yourself but also contributing to the preservation of the environment. Additionally, many people find that natural repellents smell far better than their chemical counterparts. Instead of the harsh, often unpleasant odor of DEET-based products, natural repellents offer the pleasing aromas of lavender, peppermint, citronella, and eucalyptus.
The Rising Popularity of Essential Oil-Based Solutions
Essential oil insect repellent recipe. The popularity of indoessen essential oil-based insect repellents has surged, and it’s easy to see why. Plant-based essential oils have been utilized for their therapeutic benefits for ages. Today, they are celebrated not just for their pleasant scents but also for their efficacy in repelling insects. More and more people are turning to essential oils as a natural, effective alternative to chemical repellents.
This rise in popularity is also fueled by the growing body of scientific research supporting the efficacy of essential oils in repelling insects. Studies have shown that oils such as citronella, eucalyptus, and peppermint can be just as effective, if not more so, than some synthetic options. This scientific validation, coupled with increasing consumer awareness about the potential risks of chemical repellents, has led to a significant increase in the use of essential oils for this purpose.
Another factor contributing to the popularity of essential oil-based solutions is their versatility. These oils can be used in various forms—sprays, lotions, or even diffused into the air—making them convenient for different needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick spritz before heading outdoors or a soothing lotion to apply after a shower, there’s an essential oil-based option that fits the bill.
Why Choose Essential Oils Over Chemical Repellents
Essential oil insect repellent recipe. Choosing essential oils over chemical repellents is a decision rooted in health, environmental consciousness, and overall well-being. Essential oils offer a natural alternative that aligns with the growing desire to avoid synthetic chemicals. The following are strong arguments for switching:
- Health Benefits: Essential oils are not only effective at repelling insects but also offer various health benefits. For instance, lavender oil can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, while peppermint oil can help with headaches and improve mental clarity. Using essential oils means you’re not just keeping insects at bay but also enhancing your well-being.
- Fewer Side Effects: Chemical repellents like DEET can cause side effects such as skin irritation, allergic reactions, and, in severe cases, neurological damage with excessive exposure. Essential oils, when used correctly and in proper dilutions, are generally safe and well-tolerated, even by those with sensitive skin.
- Eco-Friendly: Essential oils are biodegradable and do not harm the environment. By opting for essential oil-based repellents, you reduce your ecological footprint and avoid contributing to the pollution caused by synthetic chemicals.
- Pleasant Scents: Unlike the often harsh and unpleasant smell of chemical repellents, essential oils provide a pleasant aromatic experience. Scents like citronella, lavender, and eucalyptus not only repel insects but also leave you smelling fresh and clean.
- Customizable: With essential oils, you can create your own repellent blends tailored to your preferences and needs. This customization allows you to combine different oils for enhanced efficacy and to enjoy a scent that you love.
Ingredients for Essential Oil Insect Repellent
Essential oil insect repellent recipe. Creating an effective and pleasant-smelling insect repellent using essential oils involves a careful selection of ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in ensuring the repellent’s efficacy, skin safety, and overall user experience.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are the cornerstone of any natural insect repellent. Each oil brings its unique properties and benefits, making the blend both potent and aromatic.
Citronella Essential Oil
Citronella oil is one of the most widely used essential oils for repelling insects. It has a strong, lemon-like scent that is highly effective in keeping mosquitoes and other bugs at bay. The oil is derived from the leaves and stems of different species of Cymbopogon (lemongrass).
Benefits:
- Strong repellent properties against mosquitoes, flies, and fleas
- Fresh, uplifting aroma that masks human scents attractive to insects
Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Eucalyptus oil is known for its potent antiseptic and insect-repelling properties. Extracted from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree, this oil is particularly effective against mosquitoes and other biting insects.
Benefits:
- Provides a cooling sensation on the skin
- Known to repel mosquitoes, ticks, and flies
- Combines well with other oils for enhanced repellent action
Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender oil, with its calming and soothing properties, also doubles as an insect repellent. Its pleasant floral scent makes it a popular choice for those who prefer a milder aroma.
Benefits:
- Gentle on the skin, making it suitable for children and those with sensitive skin
- Repels mosquitoes, moths, and other insects
- Provides calming effects, reducing stress and anxiety
Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint oil has a refreshing and invigorating scent that is not only pleasant for humans but also a strong deterrent for many insects. Its menthol content gives it a cooling effect when applied to the skin.
Benefits:
- Effective against mosquitoes, spiders, and ants
- Gives the skin a calming, cooling sensation.
- Stimulating aroma that can improve alertness and concentration
Carrier Oils
Carrier oils are used to dilute essential oils and help in spreading them evenly on the skin. They also offer additional moisturizing benefits, ensuring that the repellent is not harsh or drying.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a popular carrier oil due to its moisturizing properties and mild scent. It has a natural ability to soothe and hydrate the skin while providing a medium for essential oils to be applied effectively.
Benefits:
- Deeply moisturizing, preventing skin from drying out
- Contains natural fatty acids that can enhance the repellent effect
- Light, non-greasy feel on the skin
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil closely resembles the natural oils produced by human skin, making it an excellent choice for a carrier oil. It is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog pores, and it has a long shelf life.
Benefits:
- Simple to absorb through the skin and doesn’t leave a greasy trace
- Provides lasting hydration and protection for the skin
- Enhances the absorption of essential oils
Other Necessary Ingredients
In addition to essential and carrier oils, other ingredients can improve the effectiveness, texture, and usability of your insect repellent.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a natural astringent and anti-inflammatory, making it a great addition to insect repellent formulations. It helps to mix the oils with water and provides a cooling effect when sprayed on the skin.
Benefits:
- Acts as a natural preservative, extending the shelf life of your repellent
- Helps soothe and cool the skin, reducing irritation
- Improves the consistency of the repellent, making it easier to apply
Distilled Water
Distilled water is used to dilute the repellent, making it easier to apply as a spray. It is free from impurities and minerals, ensuring that it does not react with other ingredients.
Benefits:
- Ensures a light, easy-to-apply consistency
- Prevents clogging of spray bottles
- Provides a base for mixing oils and witch hazel
Benefits of Each Essential Oil
Citronella Essential Oil Known for Its Strong Anti-Mosquito Properties
Essential oil insect repellent recipe. Citronella essential oil is one of the most recognized natural insect repellents. Extracted from the leaves and stems of various Cymbopogon species, including lemongrass, it has a distinct, lemony aroma that is both refreshing to humans and repulsive to insects.
Benefits:
- Anti-Mosquito Powerhouse: Citronella is particularly effective against mosquitoes. Its strong scent masks the human scents that attract these pests, making it difficult for them to locate their targets.
- Broad-Spectrum Repellent: Besides mosquitoes, citronella oil also repels flies, fleas, and other biting insects. This makes it a versatile addition to any insect repellent blend.
- Safe for Regular Use: When diluted properly, citronella oil is safe for use on the skin and can be applied multiple times a day without causing irritation.
- Pleasant Scent: Unlike chemical repellents, citronella’s fresh, citrusy scent is generally pleasant, providing a more enjoyable application experience.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil Effective Against Various Insects, Soothing Aroma
Eucalyptus oil, derived from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree, is another powerful essential oil known for its insect-repelling properties. Its main active ingredient, eucalyptol, not only wards off insects but also provides numerous other benefits.
Benefits:
- Mosquito Repellent: Eucalyptus oil has been shown to be effective in repelling mosquitoes, making it a key component in natural insect repellents.
- Tick Protection: This oil also provides protection against ticks, which can carry diseases such as Lyme disease.
- Cooling Sensation: When applied to the skin, eucalyptus oil offers a cooling and soothing effect, which can help reduce irritation from insect bites.
- Aromatherapeutic Benefits: The fresh, invigorating scent of eucalyptus oil can also help clear the mind and improve respiratory function, adding an extra layer of benefit to its use as an insect repellent.
Lavender Essential Oil Dual-Purpose for Repelling Insects and Calming the Skin
Lavender oil is famed for its calming properties, but it’s also an effective insect repellent. Extracted from the lavender plant, this oil has a gentle floral aroma that belies its powerful repellent capabilities.
Benefits:
- Mosquito and Moth Deterrent: Lavender oil repels mosquitoes, moths, and other flying insects, making it a great all-around choice for natural repellents.
- Soothes Skin: Lavender oil has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help soothe the skin, reducing redness and irritation caused by insect bites.
- Calming Effects: The aroma of lavender is well-known for its calming and relaxing effects, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. This dual-purpose nature makes it a perfect addition to any repellent blend.
- Safe for All Ages: Lavender oil is gentle enough to be used on children and individuals with sensitive skin, provided it is properly diluted.
Peppermint Essential Oil Fresh Scent and Potent Repellent Capabilities
Peppermint oil is extracted from the peppermint plant and is renowned for its invigorating scent and potent repellent properties. Its high menthol content makes it effective against a variety of insects.
Benefits:
- Repels a Wide Range of Insects: Peppermint oil is effective against mosquitoes, spiders, ants, and other pests, making it a versatile option for natural insect repellents.
- Cooling and Refreshing: The menthol in peppermint oil provides a cooling sensation on the skin, which can help alleviate discomfort from bites and stings.
- Aromatic Benefits: The fresh, minty aroma of peppermint oil can help improve mental clarity and focus, offering an additional benefit beyond its insect-repelling properties.
- Natural Pest Control: Beyond personal use, peppermint oil can be used around the home to deter pests, making it a multi-functional addition to your natural repellent arsenal.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Essential Oil Insect Repellent
Essential oil insect repellent recipe. Creating your own essential oil insect repellent is a straightforward process that allows you to control the ingredients and customize the scent and strength to your preference. Below is a detailed guide on how to mix the ingredients, ensuring proper ratios for effectiveness and safety, along with tips for bottling and storing your homemade repellent.
Detailed Instructions on How to Mix the Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 10 drops of citronella essential oil
- 10 drops of eucalyptus essential oil
- 10 drops of lavender essential oil
- 10 drops of peppermint essential oil
- 2 tablespoons of carrier oil (e.g., coconut oil or jojoba oil)
- 2 tablespoons of witch hazel
- 1/4 cup of distilled water
Instructions:
- Gather Your Supplies: Ensure you have all your ingredients and necessary tools, such as a small funnel, a clean spray bottle (preferably glass), and a mixing bowl.
- Prepare the Essential Oils: In a small mixing bowl, combine the essential oils. Begin by adding 10 drops each of citronella, eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint oils. Stir gently to mix the oils together. This step ensures that the oils blend well before adding other ingredients.
- Add Carrier Oil: Measure out 2 tablespoons of your chosen carrier oil. Add it to the bowl with the essential oils. The carrier oil helps dilute the essential oils, making them safe for skin application and helping to disperse the oils evenly.
- Incorporate Witch Hazel: Add 2 tablespoons of witch hazel to the mixture. Witch hazel acts as an emulsifier, helping to combine the oils with the water and providing a cooling effect on the skin.
- Mix in Distilled Water: Slowly add 1/4 cup of distilled water to the mixture, stirring constantly. This will thin the mixture to a consistency suitable for spraying.
- Transfer to Spray Bottle: Using a small funnel, carefully pour the mixture into your clean spray bottle. Ensure the bottle is properly sealed.
- Shake Well: Before each use, shake the bottle well to ensure the ingredients are thoroughly mixed. Essential oils and water can separate over time, so this step is crucial for effective application.
Proper Ratios for Effectiveness and Safety
Balancing the ratios of essential oils, carrier oils, and other ingredients is key to creating a repellent that is both effective and safe. The ratios provided in this recipe are designed to offer strong insect-repelling properties while minimizing the risk of skin irritation.
- Essential Oils: The total amount of essential oils should be about 40 drops per 1/2 cup of liquid. This ratio provides a strong scent that is effective in repelling insects without being overwhelming.
- Carrier Oil: Using 2 tablespoons of carrier oil ensures that the essential oils are well-diluted, reducing the likelihood of skin irritation while helping the oils adhere to the skin.
- Witch Hazel: Adding witch hazel not only helps blend the oils with the water but also provides an additional layer of protection and skin-soothing benefits.
- Distilled Water: The distilled water dilutes the mixture to a sprayable consistency, ensuring even application without clogging the spray nozzle.
Tips for Bottling and Storing the Repellent
- Choose the Right Bottle: Opt for a dark glass spray bottle if possible. Essential oils can degrade when exposed to light, and glass is less reactive than plastic, helping preserve the integrity of the oils.
- Label Your Bottle: Clearly label your spray bottle with the contents and the date you made the repellent. This helps you keep track of its freshness and ensures that everyone in the household knows what it is.
- Storage: Store the repellent in a cool, dark place, such as a cabinet or a drawer. Avoid leaving it in direct sunlight or in a hot car, as heat can degrade the essential oils and reduce their effectiveness.
- Shelf Life: Homemade insect repellents typically have a shelf life of about six months. If you notice any changes in the scent or consistency, it’s best to make a new batch.
- Test Before Use: Always perform a patch test before using the repellent extensively. Apply a small amount to a patch of skin and wait 24 hours to ensure there is no adverse reaction.
Homemade Essential Oil Insect Repellent Application Tips
Essential oil insect repellent recipe. Using your homemade essential oil insect repellent effectively involves knowing the best practices for application, focusing on key areas of the body, and understanding how often to reapply to ensure maximum protection. Here are some detailed tips to help you get the most out of your natural repellent.
Best Practices for Applying the Repellent
- Shake Well Before Use: Essential oils and water can separate over time, so it’s crucial to shake the bottle thoroughly before each application. This ensures that the ingredients are well-mixed and you get an even distribution of the repellent on your skin.
- Apply to Clean, Dry Skin: For best results, apply the repellent to clean, dry skin. This helps the oils to be absorbed better and ensures that they adhere well, providing longer-lasting protection.
- Spray from a Distance: Hold the spray bottle about 6-8 inches away from your skin. This distance allows for an even misting over the area, which ensures full coverage without drenching your skin.
- Rub in the Repellent: After spraying, gently rub the repellent into your skin. This helps to distribute the oils evenly and ensures that they are fully absorbed, enhancing their effectiveness.
- Avoid Sensitive Areas: Be cautious when applying the repellent to your face. Avoid the eyes, mouth, and any areas with broken or irritated skin. If applying to your face, spray the repellent onto your hands first, then pat gently onto your face, avoiding the eye area.
- Clothing and Gear: In addition to applying the repellent to your skin, lightly spray it on your clothing and gear. This adds an extra layer of protection, especially since some insects can bite through thin fabrics.
Areas of the Body to Focus On
- Ankles and Feet: Mosquitoes and other insects often target lower extremities. Ensure you spray a good amount on your ankles, feet, and the lower parts of your legs, especially if you’re wearing shorts or skirts.
- Wrists and Forearms: These areas are also common targets for bites. Apply the repellent generously to your wrists and forearms to keep them protected.
- Neck and Behind the Ears: The neck and behind the ears are areas where insects like to bite, as these spots can be exposed and often warm. Apply the repellent to these areas, especially if you have short hair or are wearing your hair up.
- Exposed Skin: Any other exposed skin should be covered with the repellent. This includes your face (taking care to avoid the eyes and mouth), arms, and any other uncovered areas.
- Edges of Clothing: Spray the edges of your clothing, such as cuffs, collars, and hems. Insects often find their way to these areas and applying the repellent here can help create a barrier.
How Often to Reapply for Maximum Protection
- Duration of Effectiveness: Most essential oil-based repellents last for about 2-4 hours. However, this can vary depending on factors such as perspiration, weather conditions, and the level of insect activity.
- Reapply After Swimming or Sweating: Water and sweat can reduce the effectiveness of the repellent. If you’ve been swimming or sweating heavily, reapply the repellent to ensure continuous protection.
- Regular Intervals: For consistent protection, reapply the repellent every 2-3 hours. This helps maintain a sufficient level of essential oils on your skin, keeping insects at bay.
- High Insect Activity: In areas with a high level of insect activity, such as dense forests or near water bodies, consider reapplying more frequently. Pay attention to how well the repellent is working and reapply as needed.
- Before Dusk and Dawn: Insects, particularly mosquitoes, are most active during dawn and dusk. Make sure to apply the repellent just before these times to ensure you’re protected during peak activity periods.
Tips and Tricks for Enhancing Effectiveness of Essential Oil Insect Repellent
Creating an effective essential oil insect repellent involves more than just mixing the right ingredients. Here are some advanced tips and tricks to enhance the potency and user experience of your homemade repellent, ensuring it works effectively while being gentle on the skin.
Combining Essential Oils for a Stronger Repellent
Synergistic Blending
Combining different essential oils can create a synergistic effect, where the combined properties of the oils are more effective than each oil used alone. Here are some powerful combinations:
- Citronella and Lemongrass: Both oils come from the Cymbopogon species and have potent insect-repelling properties. When combined, they create a robust barrier against mosquitoes and other flying insects.
- Eucalyptus and Tea Tree: Eucalyptus oil is known for its cooling effect, while tea tree oil has strong antimicrobial properties. Together, they not only repel insects but also soothe and protect the skin from infections caused by bites.
- Lavender and Peppermint: Lavender’s calming scent pairs well with peppermint’s invigorating aroma. This combination provides a balanced fragrance while effectively repelling insects. The soothing nature of lavender also helps calm the skin, while peppermint provides a refreshing cooling effect.
Optimal Ratios
To achieve the best results, use the following ratios when combining essential oils:
- Mosquito-Repellent Blend: 5 drops citronella, 5 drops eucalyptus, 5 drops lavender, and 5 drops peppermint.
- General Insect-Repellent Blend: 4 drops tea tree, 4 drops lemongrass, 4 drops lavender, and 4 drops eucalyptus.
Adding Other Natural Ingredients Like Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) can enhance the effectiveness of your insect repellent by altering your skin’s pH, making it less attractive to insects. Here’s how to incorporate ACV into your recipe:
Benefits of ACV
- Natural Acidic Barrier: The acidic nature of ACV can create a hostile environment for insects, helping to repel them.
- Skin Tonic: ACV has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can soothe the skin and help prevent infections from bites.
How to Incorporate ACV
Basic Recipe with ACV:
- 1/4 cup distilled water
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons witch hazel
- 10 drops citronella essential oil
- 10 drops eucalyptus essential oil
- 10 drops lavender essential oil
- 10 drops peppermint essential oil
Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a spray bottle. Shake well before each use to ensure all components are thoroughly mixed.
How to Test for Skin Sensitivity Before Full Application
Before applying your homemade repellent to large areas of your body, it’s essential to test for skin sensitivity to avoid any adverse reactions. To do a patch test, take the following actions:
- Prepare a Diluted Sample: Mix a small amount of your insect repellent blend with additional carrier oil. For the test, use a ratio of 1 drop of essential oil blend to 1 teaspoon of carrier oil.
- Apply to a Small Area: Dab a small amount of the diluted repellent on a patch of skin, typically the inside of your wrist or elbow.
- Observe for Reactions: Leave the repellent on your skin for 24 hours and monitor the area for any signs of irritation, redness, itching, or swelling. Should any negative reactions arise, stop using the product right away.
- Adjust If Necessary: If your skin shows signs of sensitivity, dilute the repellent further by adding more carrier oil. You may also try reducing the concentration of one or more essential oils or replacing them with gentler alternatives like chamomile or sandalwood.
Additional Tips for Enhanced Effectiveness
- Layering: Apply the repellent in layers, starting with a thin layer, letting it absorb, and then applying a second layer. This can help enhance the longevity and efficacy of the repellent.
- Reapply Regularly: Essential oil-based repellents need to be reapplied more frequently than chemical ones. Aim to reapply every 2-3 hours, or more often if you are sweating or swimming.
- Storage: Store your repellent in a cool, dark place to preserve the potency of the essential oils. Heat and light can degrade the oils, reducing their effectiveness.
- Spray on Gear and Clothing: Enhance protection by lightly spraying your clothes, hats, and gear. Essential oils can be effective at deterring insects from these surfaces as well.
- Avoid Open Flames: Some essential oils are flammable. Be cautious when applying the repellent around open flames or when cooking outdoors.
FAQs About Essential Oil Insect Repellent Recipe
To ensure that you get the most out of your homemade essential oil insect repellent, it’s important to address common questions and concerns. Here are detailed answers to frequently asked questions about the use, safety, and effectiveness of natural insect repellents.
Can I use this repellent on children?
Yes, you can use this repellent on children, but with caution and proper dilution.
Details:
- Dilution is Key: For children, it’s crucial to dilute the essential oils more than you would for adults. A safe dilution ratio for children is about half the strength used for adults. For example, if your adult formula uses 10 drops of essential oil, reduce it to 5 drops for children.
- Patch Test: Always perform a patch test before applying the repellent to a larger area. Apply a small amount of the diluted repellent to a small patch of your child’s skin and wait 24 hours to check for any adverse reactions.
- Avoid Sensitive Areas: Do not apply the repellent to your child’s hands, face, or any areas where they might accidentally ingest it. Focus on their legs, arms, and clothing.
- Age Considerations: For infants and toddlers under 2 years old, it’s best to consult with a pediatrician before using any essential oil-based products.
How long does the repellent last once applied?
The effectiveness of the repellent typically lasts between 2 to 4 hours, depending on various factors such as activity level and environmental conditions.
Details:
- Activity Level: If you are sweating or swimming, the repellent may wear off more quickly, necessitating more frequent reapplication.
- Environmental Factors: Humidity, heat, and exposure to elements can also affect the longevity of the repellent’s effectiveness. In hot and humid conditions, it might be necessary to reapply more frequently.
- Regular Reapplication: As a general rule, plan to reapply the repellent every 2-3 hours to maintain optimal protection, especially if you are in an area with high insect activity.
Does the use of essential oils have any negative effects?
While essential oils are generally safe, some people may experience minor skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Details:
- Patch Test: Patch tests should always be carried out before broad usage. Apply a small amount of the repellent to an inconspicuous area of skin, such as the inside of the wrist or elbow, and wait 24 hours to check for any adverse reactions.
- Sensitive Skin: Those with sensitive skin or known allergies should be particularly cautious. If irritation develops, stop using the product right once and give the affected area a light soap and water wash.
- Avoid Certain Oils: Some essential oils, like clove or cinnamon, can be more irritating than others. Stick to gentler oils like lavender or chamomile if you have sensitive skin.
- Proper Dilution: Ensure that the essential oils are properly diluted with carrier oils to reduce the risk of skin irritation. Avoid putting pure essential oils on your skin.
Can I use this repellent on pets?
Some essential oils are safe for pets, but it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian before applying any essential oil-based products to your pets.
Details:
- Pet-Safe Oils: Oils like lavender, cedarwood, and chamomile are generally considered safe for pets. However, even these should be used with caution and proper dilution.
- Toxic Oils: Certain essential oils, such as tea tree, eucalyptus, peppermint, and citrus oils, can be toxic to pets if ingested or absorbed through the skin in large amounts.
- Dilution and Application: If your vet approves, ensure the oils are heavily diluted. A safe starting point is 1 drop of essential oil per 1 tablespoon of carrier oil.
- Avoid Sensitive Areas: Do not apply the repellent near your pet’s face, particularly around the eyes, nose, and mouth. Apply it to their back and legs where they are less likely to lick it off.
- Observe for Reactions: Monitor your pet for any signs of adverse reactions, such as excessive drooling, vomiting, lethargy, or skin irritation, and discontinue use if any symptoms occur.
