Gudrun Snyder’s New Bug Repellent is a Game-Changer

By Robert White, Editor-In-Chief

Meet Gudrun Snyder, an acupuncturist and founder of Moon Rabbit Acupuncture, a wellness brand that's making waves with a new product: a natural bug repellent designed to "attract humans, not insects." Known for her innovative approach, Snyder brings a unique blend of traditional Chinese medicine and modern wellness practices to the market, and her latest creation is set to redefine how we ward off those pesky bugs.

Snyder’s journey is rooted in a deep respect for traditional Eastern medicine, inspired by her grandmother, a doctor from Shanghai who combined Western medical practices with Eastern wellness principles. This upbringing laid the foundation for Snyder’s passion and expertise in acupuncture and herbal medicine. With two successful Moon Rabbit locations in Chicago, she has become a trusted name in the holistic wellness space. Now, she’s expanding her repertoire with a product line, starting with an innovative bug repellent.

The idea behind the bug spray stemmed from the recurring requests of her clients, who wanted a non-toxic, skin-friendly alternative to conventional insect repellents. Many were looking for something safe enough to use on children and effective without the harsh chemicals found in typical products. Snyder, along with her in-house team, spent two years perfecting a formula that combines elements of traditional Chinese medicine with modern botanical ingredients. The result is a fragrant, effective spray that not only repels insects but also nourishes the skin.

The standout feature of Snyder’s bug repellent is its unique blend of natural ingredients like citronella, orange, and blue tansy—a traditional herb known for its skin-soothing properties and natural bug-repelling effects. Blue tansy, often used in luxury skincare products, is a key component that not only helps deter insects but also leaves the skin feeling soft and refreshed. The formula’s pleasant aroma is a far cry from the overpowering chemical scent of conventional bug sprays, making it a product that people genuinely enjoy wearing.

The brand’s tagline, "Attract humans, not insects," reflects the dual-purpose design of the product. Unlike traditional repellents that leave a strong, unpleasant odor, Moon Rabbit’s spray has a light, refreshing fragrance that’s appealing to people but repellent to bugs. During product testing, Snyder took the spray on a family camping trip and received overwhelmingly positive feedback. The effectiveness of the spray, combined with its pleasant scent, left a lasting impression on both her family and other campers who tried it.

Currently, the bug repellent is available for purchase on Moon Rabbit’s website, with plans to roll out a final version in upgraded packaging by spring. The product is also available in a convenient roller format, perfect for on-the-go use at outdoor events like weddings or picnics. Snyder's commitment to quality and sustainability shines through, as the product is certified by Leaping Bunny, ensuring it meets high ethical standards.

Launching a product line was a new challenge for Snyder, who is well-versed in building acupuncture clinics but found herself navigating uncharted waters in product development. She candidly shared that the process was more complex and costly than anticipated, but she embraced the learning curve, seeking advice from industry experts and leveraging her network. The result is a thoughtfully crafted product that aligns with her brand’s ethos of clean, effective, and holistic wellness solutions.

Gudrun Snyder’s journey from acupuncturist to product innovator is a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to offering natural alternatives that prioritize both health and environmental sustainability. As more people seek cleaner lifestyle products, Moon Rabbit’s bug repellent is poised to become a favorite among those who value natural, skin-friendly solutions.