Non Toxic Tick Repellent

Living near deers can increase exposure to ticks, as deers are known carriers.

Ticks are a cause for major concern, as they can carry harmful diseases like Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Lyme Disease. Chemical repellents may be worrisome to some consumers, however, so natural alternatives are nontoxic options.

Lemon Eucalyptus

Consumer Reports regards Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent produced by Repel as effective against ticks and mosquitoes--almost as effective as the chemical picaridin--and competitive with chemical products. The Journal of Medical Entomology also named this product as one of the most effective mosquito repellents in a 2004 study that compared chemical and natural products.

Ongoing Research

According to Science Daily, the natural compound isolongifolenone is an effective repellent against fleas and ticks. Isolongifolenone comes from the Tauroniro tree native to South America and is used in cosmetics, fragrances, deodorants and paper products.

Tick Repellent for Dogs

Ticks are a major concern for dogs, too, as they can contract some of the same diseases as humans. According to the website Care2, a solution of 2 tablespoons vegetable or nut oil mixed with 10 to 25 drops of rose geranium essential oil effectively repels ticks. Apply a few drops to a natural cloth collar or bandanna, being careful to avoid eyes and sensitive skin.

References

• Consumer Reports: Best Ways to Keep Bugs at Bay
• Barnard, Donald R. and Rui-De Xue, "Laboratory Evaluation of Mosquito Repellents Against Aedes albopictus, Culex nigripalpus, and Ochlerotatus triseriatus (Diptera: Culicidae)", 2004.
• Science Daily: Natural, Alternative Insect Repellent As Effective As DEET, Study Shows
• Care2: Herbal Tick Repellent for Dogs