Fact

• Peppermint oil helps to repel ants from any surface on which you spray or rub the substance. For unknown reasons, most species of ants cannot tolerate the strong odor and taste of peppermint oil.
  
  

Process

• To repel ants from your home and garden with peppermint oil, dilute between 10 and 15 drops of the essential oil into a spray bottle full of water. Spray the diluted peppermint oil onto countertops and even directly onto plants to repel and control ants.
  
  

Considerations

• Essential oils often include phenols that may cause skin irritation and liver damage in cats. If you have a pet cat, you may want to avoid using peppermint oil as an ant repellent and try another natural solution instead.