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Synthetic bug repellents contain substances that are highly effective in repelling ticks and other insects. But effective as they are, they can, in rare cases, cause skin irritations or allergic reactions in some users. An alternative are natural tick repellents. While they may not be free of unwanted side effects, the risk may be lower. But if you’re leaning toward natural options, knowing the limitations is crucial.
Natural Tick Repellent
While natural repellents are gaining popularity, it’s important to approach them with a critical eye. Many plant-based solutions are marketed as safe and “chemical-free,” but most lack strong scientific backing to prove they actually repel ticks effectively.
Essential oils like lavender, citronella, or tea tree might smell nice, but that doesn’t mean they offer reliable protection. Even well-known options like Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE) are often confused with less effective homemade versions.
Scientific studies on natural tick repellents for humans are rare. However, the effectiveness of coconut oil, garlic oil, black cumin oil, brewer’s yeast, and other essential oils as tick repellents is well discussed, and many people swear by their effectiveness.
All Organic Natural Insect Repellents
- MADE WITH OIL OF LEMON EUCALYPTUS: This DEET-free insect repellent provides you with protection during adventures in the backyard and on the go.
- REPELS MOSQUITOES FOR UP TO 6 HOURS: This repellent keeps you and your family protected for hours, so the fun doesn't have to end.
- REFRESHING SCENT: This DEET-free personal repellent leaves you with a cool, refreshing scent so you don't have to put up with the usual bug spray smell.
- REPELS: Create a barrier against mosquitoes, including those that may transmit the Zika, West Nile, Dengue and Chikungunya viruses.
- NOT GREASY OR STICKY: Formulated with oil of lemon eucalyptus to provide protection without leaving your skin feeling sticky or greasy.
- ENJOY THE OUTDOORS WITH CONFIDENCE - Get relief from mosquitos and ticks for hours, our summer fun travel essential helps you enjoy the park, beach, backyard, or camping without worrying about pesky insects.
- PLANT-BASED MOSQUITO SPRAY YOU CAN TRUST - Use the power of nature for a healthy alternative with natural essential oils like citronella, cedarwood, and lemongrass plants for protection with trusted ingredients.
- GENTLE FAMILY-FRIENDLY FORMULA - Go DEET-free with a repellent for your little ones that’s free of harsh ingredients, our formula is gentle on their skin and clothes, making it a perfect choice for everyday outdoor activities.
- TESTED, TRUSTED PROTECTION - Your go-to product to protect against bugs all year round, complies with strict regulations ensuring its safety and effectiveness, a family-friendly option that meets the highest standards.
- NO HARSH CHEMICALS, ARTIFICIAL PRESERVATIVES OR TOXINS - Great for you and the environment around you, offering options for your needs with bug repellent wipes, packable TSA-approved 2 oz size, 4 and 8 oz sizes.
- INSECT REPELLENT: Our original repellent works to effectively repel gnats and mosquitoes for up to an hour. It can easily be reapplied as needed and will not damage plastic or most fabrics.
- WATER-BASED FORMULA: Our formula consists of a blend of essential oils that are not sticky or greasy. This makes it a great fit for kids and the whole family.
- ENJOYABLE SCENT: The repellent offers a refreshing Vanilla Mint Rose scent so you can enjoy avoiding insects without any harsh chemical smell.
- EASY TO APPLY: The repellent is easy to use, simply hold the container 4 to 6 inches from dry skin or clothing and spray. It can also be used on your face by spraying it on your hands first and then applying sparingly while avoiding eyes and lips.
- BUGG PRODUCTS: With over 30 years of experience Bugg continues to create products that effectively work to protect you and your spaces from all kinds of insects without the normal chemical bug spray smell.
- ALL NATURAL REPELLENTS: Try our 2 in 1 bundle! DEET free mosquito and tick repellent sprays. Great for outdoor and family activities like camping, beach trips, mountain climbing, mountain biking, hiking, campfires. For use throughout all seasons
- 100% PLANT-BASED INGREDIENTS: Made in the USA with pure, certified organic and non-GMO soybean and castor oil plus a mixture of natural oils. Fresh, herbal scents that you’ll love and the bugs will hate. Non-greasy spray for skin or clothing that won’t stain
- SAFE FOR CHILDREN + THE WHOLE FAMILY: Gentle formulas great for kids and adults. Family-friendly, natural sprays that actually work to keep the bugs away. Recyclable bottles for eco-friendly use. Great for travel, camping, hiking, golfing, fishing, outdoor summer adventures, and days spent in the mountains
- EASY APPLICATION: “Shake and spray” application for hard to reach areas, avoiding face area. Simply spray on skin, clothing, gear or accessories for bug protection. 4-ounce bottles work great for traveling
- MADE IN THE USA: Both sprays formulated in the USA specifically for mosquitos and ticks. Keep the itchy bug bites away this summer for the whole family. 100% satisfaction guaranteed. YAYA Organics stands behind its promise of purity
Last update on 2025-05-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Essential Oils Against Ticks
Organic tick repellents are made using a carrier liquid, mixed with one or more essential oils that keep ticks away. A list of essential oils commonly used includes lavender, lemon, citronella, eucalyptus, cedarwood, sweet orange, peppermint, rosemary, thyme, oregano, juniper, grapefruit, myrrh, rosewood, and geranium.
How do Essential oils work as a natural tick repellent?
The smell of essential oils supposedly irritates the senses of the tick, or for that matter, that of many insects, making it more difficult to find its host. Some essential oils also have a damaging effect on the chitinous exoskeleton of insects.
Many essential oils are too strong in their pure form and can cause skin irritation and unpleasant reactions. So it is important to use essential oils diluted.
Coconut oil against ticks
People all around the tropics traditionally use coconut oil as a natural repellent against blood-sucking insects such as mosquitos and sandflies. Coconut oil contains Lauric Acid. Many plants produce Lauric Acid to deter sap-sucking pests.
Coconut oil can be used in its pure form and be directly rubbed onto the skin. Besides repelling pests it also a good skin moisturizer.
Garlic, the smell that ticks don’t like
Ticks do not like garlic. A scientific study at Lund University Malmö with 100 soldiers showed that regular consumption of garlic capsules significantly reduced the number of tick bites.
Garlic is native to Central Asia and has been used there traditionally for its health benefits. The strong smell of the plant works as a natural deterrent against plant-eating insects.
Eating fresh garlic on a regular basis may reduce the risk of a tick bite and bites from other insects.
Nigella Sativa – Black Seed Oil
Black cumin (Black Seed) does not belong to the family of caraway or cumin but belongs to the family of the buttercup. Black seed, whose botanical name is “Nigella Sativa”, is cultivated in Central Asia, India, North Africa, and Southern Europe. It has traditionally been used as a cure for allergies, high blood pressure, sleep disorders, heart diseases and considered to strengthen the immune system.
Black Seed Oil contains small concentrations of citronellol, an effective insect repellent, that is also a component in Lemongrass oil.
Citronella Oil
Citronella oil, derived from Lemongrass species, is widely used in natural tick repellent due to its strong, lemony scent. Lemongrass grows all around the tropics and has traditionally been used as a medicine and spice plant.
While it has proven effectiveness against mosquitoes, its ability to repel ticks is far less certain. Some small-scale studies and anecdotal reports suggest citronella may have mild repellent properties against ticks, but there is limited scientific evidence to support its reliability for this purpose.
Citronella oil evaporates quickly, reducing its duration of protection, often requiring frequent reapplication. It may offer some short-term deterrence in low-risk areas but should not be relied upon as a sole method of tick prevention. For those preferring natural options, citronella can be part of a broader strategy, but it’s best used alongside proven measures like protective clothing and regular tick checks.
Citronella is a natural and harmless oil if it is not used excessively.
Does Natural Tick Repellent Work?
Plant-based tick repellents can help against ticks, but their effectiveness may vary among different users. As not much scientific data exists on their benefits and how they should be applied, you have no choice but to try out which tick repellent is right for you and which one works best.
