Fly Repellant for Horses

[Chris Whitaker]

Hi all, before I do this I figured let me get some opinions .... My Panamanian worker suggested I boil leaves from this tree (pic attached) and use the water in a spray bottle on the horses to help keep the flies away. Has anyone done this? If not, what do you all use as a fly repellant? I would like to keep it organic. Thanks for your help :)

[Lynne Van der Kar]

If I'm not wrong, that looks like a Neem tree and the oil from the leaves makes a great insect repellant. Used by organic gardeners. You can buy Neem oil concentrate at the Agriculture store next to the Delta gas station. Also the idea of coconut oil and citronella sounds like a good one. I remember a long time ago being told that if you plant Tansy (or is it Tansey) in the horse area it will keep the flies away. It's an herb. Good luck

[Marion Torgany]

I use for many years "By Fly " .,this is a mixture of Coconut oil and Citronella. It works fantastic, no more flyes ,,fleas or ticks! You get it at "El Rancherito" in David.
local horsemen use this. It's cheap and effective and natural.
Never heard of this tree leaves remedy.

[Chris Whitaker]

Thank you Marion :)

[Camille Gathercole]

Don't know about the tree, but it might be worth a try.

I use skin so soft. There are avon ladies around. It works good for me and the horse. 

[Chris Whitaker]

Thanks Camille - I'll let you know if the tree water works, if not Avon here I come :)