The common pantry moth is also known as the Indian Mealmoth. Plodia interpunctella. Plodding along and interrupting with great punctuality. Feasting on grains, sugar, dried fruit, and nuts.
Sigh. I have pantry moths. Not only do I have pantry moths, but 5 months ago I moved in with my beau and brought those suckers with me. Not only did I move in with my beau, but between us are 4 of his kids, and 2 of my kids, and 3 dogs, and 3 cats. Needless to say, the past 5 months have been quite the adjustment for everyone and not easy and not even now adjusted. The dogs are really happy…
“I brought the pantry moths with me, those nasty creatures interrupting the lives of others. Also known as 
weevil moths. Do you see the word “evil” in there or is it just me?”
As a yogi, I believe everything has some spiritual significance. As I swat, as I clean, as I purge, I wonder…am I the we”evil” moth? Am I the perceived infestation? What on earth do these moths mean from a spiritual perspective?
A week ago I fell off the ladder trying to kill one up in the far right unreachable corner of the pantry. I have quite the bruise. It has drawn the attention of many and recommended to me by another moth sufferer was the use of essential oils. I like essential oils, but never think of them in a practical way. So, mixing lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint into my diffuser and then creating a solution of the same with vinegar and water to spray all over the pantry I’m making headway.
“I’m trying to be useful and helpful. Kids usually like me. What on earth happened?”
My beau’s oldest came home yesterday as I cleaned and I victoriously announced to him I had found a cure of essential oils for the pantry moths. He casually said, “Oh yea, peppermint and eucalyptus.” And then I was like “What???” And he said, “Yea, my mom sells oils and she said those work.” And then I was like “What??? You knew this information and didn’t share?” And he shrugged and went to his mancave.
And in that moment with my mouth having fallen open and my tincture resting in my hand that had fallen by my side and my soul flying free from this human form, I realized in the past 5 months all I have done wrong, all I have shown weakness around, all I have worried over, and all I have battled with have simply been observed and shared and talked about by the kids with their mother. They had even come up with solutions they did not share. They were enjoying watching what yogis call “Leela” or the play of the Universe. What an incredible and divine comedy.
And between their mother and I without even speaking, a solution had been found for the we”evil” moths.
Now that truly is divine.
Sat Nam, Pamela
RECIPE:
1/2 cup Vinegar
1/2 cup Water
15 drops Eucalyptus essential oil
5 drops Peppermint essential oil
10 drops Lavender essential oil
8 oz Spray Bottle….mix it all together and shake it all up.
*The sole purpose of these articles is to provide information about the tradition of ayurveda, yoga, and meditation. This information is not intended for use in the diagnosis, treatment, cure or prevention of any disease. If you have any serious acute or chronic health concern, please consult a trained health professional who can fully assess your needs and address them effectively. Check with your doctor before taking herbs or using essential oils when pregnant or nursing.