Does Eucalyptus Repel Ticks

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Eucalyptus oil is mainly known for its refreshing camphor, citrus-like refreshing smell. Eucalyptus has been a proven remedy against many ailments. The processed oil is used in various products from topical ointments against muscle ache and rheumatism to cough medicine and bronchitis. Eucalyptus oil is antiseptic and works against a variety of bacteria.

Eucalyptus Oil to Keep off Ticks

Eucalyptus oil is a strong essential oil distilled from the leaf of the Eucalyptus tree (Eucalyptus globulus). It is an evergreen tree native to Australia but is today cultivated worldwide. Eucalyptus essential oil is colorless and has a strong sweet and woody scent. It is extracted from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree using steam distillation. Does eucalyptus repel ticks? The Australian aborigines have known long before the arrival of Europeans on their continent about the medical qualities of the plant and its insect repelling properties. The eucalyptus leaves are also the main food source for the Koala Bear.

Does eucalyptus repel ticks?

eucalyptus tree

Not only are tick bites irritating, but ticks can transmit dangerous diseases like Lyme disease and many others, that may infect people and pets alike. Applying tick repellent is the best defense against tick bites.

There are several synthetic tick repellents many of which contain DEET and Picaridin. The use of artificial repellents over the long term has been associated with some harmful side effects.

You can do away with these artificial repellents and opt for homemade organic repellents using a natural way to repel ticks. Eucalyptus is one such natural ingredient that works very well in repelling ticks.

 Benefits Of Pure Eucalyptus Oil

  • A natural way to repel ticks and mosquitos
  • Soothes itchy insect bites, reduces itching
  • Eucalyptus oil is antibacterial, antifungal, antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory
  • Use diluted with a carrier oil such as argan, almond, or coconut oil before applying to the skin.

Last update on 2024-03-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Eucalyptus oil Repellent

Tick Repellent Recipes

Ticks find their victims by smelling them. More specifically, they smell their victims by being able to perceive the carbon dioxide exhalations of humans or animals. The strong smell of eucalyptus oil seems to disturb that perception. Eucalyptus oil should not be applied to the human skin directly in concentrated doses as it could cause irritation on sensitive skin. It is safer to dilute essential oils with a carrier oil. Grapeseed is a good example. Here are some recipes you can use to make homemade tick repellent using eucalyptus.

For humans

Ingredients are:
½ cup of distilled water
1 drop of castile soap
6-8 drops of eucalyptus essential oil
Mix all the ingredients and spray on yourself and your clothes to repel ticks.

For pets

½ teaspoon of alcohol
1-2 drops of eucalyptus oil
4 cloves of garlic
Mix the ingredients and leave them to sit overnight. Soak your dog’s collar in the mixture and let it dry before putting it on your dog. You can also spray this mixture on your pet’s sleeping rug to keep ticks away.

For the yard

Keep your yard free of ticks using this recipe:
2 cups apple cider vinegar
30-40 drops each of Melaleuca, Lavandin, Lemongrass, Citronella
10-20 drops of eucalyptus oil, pine, and cedarwood
Spray this mixture around the yard to repel ticks, mosquitoes, and fleas.

Eucalyptus Oil Safety Warning

Eucalyptus Oil as many other natural essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used with care.

Do NOT use internally or externally undiluted. Always dilute with a carrier oil such as jojoba, grapeseed, olive, or almond oil prior to use.  Keep out of reach of children. Consult your healthcare professional before use. See the product label for more information and use only as directed.