Originally Posted By: asfried1
4. There was no published research indicating that any of the other products on the market were safer than DEET. In fact, I was unable to find any studies on the safety profile of oil of lemon eucalyptus at all. The fact that it is "natural" does not convince me of it's safety.


I'm not sure of the exact composition of the Repel lemon eucalyptus repellent but eucalyptus oil itself has been used for centuries with no ill effects that I've heard of. In S. Amercia I've even seen people throw green eucalyptus leaves over hot coals for use as a cheap area repellent. However, as with all menthol/mint type oils, if its concentrated and too much is used, it can irritate the skin.