Natural Tick Repellents

Natural Tick Repellents, by The Farmer’s Almanac
1. Try Cedar Oil Spray
Cedar oil is a non-toxic, natural tick and insect repellent. It can be sprayed directly on clothing
and skin. It is safe for use on humans and pets. Not only does cedar oil repel ticks and other irritating
insects, but it kills them. Cedar oil spray can be purchased online and at most pet stores
and big-box retailers.
2. Homemade Tick and Insect Repellent
Try this simple recipe. Just mix and apply to exposed skin before heading outdoors:
• 9 drops citronella essential oil
• 6 drops Tea Tree essential oil
• 6 drops Peppermint essential oils
• 1 tablespoon almond oil or jojoba oil
3. Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil is known as an effective tick repeller and killer. Just combine 4 ounces of purified
or distilled water to a small spray bottle along with 20 drops of eucalyptus essential oil. Shake
before using and spray on skin, pant cuffs, and shoes. Safe for use on dogs (eucalyptus oil must be
diluted with the water before application on dogs).
4. Neem Oil
Need oil is used as a natural remedy to repel and remove ticks. To use, add several drops to the
palm of your hand and rub on exposed skin. It can also be diluted and mixed with almond or
other light carrier oil. When diluted, it’s safe for dogs. To remove a tick, apply a drop or two of
neem oil directly on the tick and it will extract itself quickly.
Tick Repellent (cont’d.)
5. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar to the rescue once again! This wonderful natural remedy also helps to repel
ticks. The following solution can be sprayed on clothing and exposed skin, even lawn furniture.
Combine the following in a spray bottle:
• 2 cups of water
• 4 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons of organic neem oil
6. Certain Aromatherapy Essential Oils
Not only smell great, but they are also known to be natural tick repellents. Ticks hate the smell of
lemon, orange, cinnamon, lavender, peppermint, and rose geranium so they’ll avoid latching on
to anything that smells of those items. Any of these or a combination can be used in DIY sprays
or added to almond oil and rubbed on exposed skin. We recommend using 100% certified organic
essential oils in any of the above mixtures, which can be found online at PennHerb products.
EAT GARLIC7. Eat Garlic!
We all know that garlic has excellent health benefits, and now we can add one more to the list.
Regular consumption of garlic* or garlic capsules reduces the risk of tick bites. The garlic causes
the body to excrete a scent that ticks hate.
*Cautions:
• It is not recommended to feed garlic to pets—please talk to your veterinarian.
• Essential oils are not recommended for use on cats. Please consult with your veterinarian
about effective flea and tick control for cats.
• Always dilute solutions before applying to your dog. For further reading on essential oils
and dogs,