Disclosed herein are insect-repelling compositions and methods for repelling biting midges, sand flies, and mosquitoes wherein the compositions comprise 2% to 6% by volume neem oil and from 94% to 98% of coconut oil and at least one other oil, such as for example jojoba oil or monoi oil or a range of other inert oils. The composition is non toxic to mammals, marine vertebrates or invertebrates and other forms of aquatic life.