It is used more often in winter but is also useful in spring and summer against ticks.
Ticks attach themselves to our skin through their rostrum, feeding on blood for several days before detaching. Some can carry disease-causing microbes, including Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. It is characterized by symptoms such as redness at the sting area, headache, fever and body aches. Fortunately, it is possible to protect yourself from these bites by covering your skin with long clothing. Using repellent essential oils is also a good idea.
Among them, there is one whose odor – linked to its richness in terpenes – is particularly effective in repelling insects, whether mosquitoes or ticks. All you need to do is dilute 2 drops in 20 drops of vegetable oil and apply this preparation for prevention to the exposed parts of the skin before the walk, explains veterinarian and pharmacologist Sylvie Hampikian. This oil also has the advantage of being anti-infectious and anti-inflammatory and thus provides relief in the event of a sting. Have you discovered it?
This is tea tree essential oil, also called “Tea Tree”. It is a major oil in winter for its powerful antibacterial, decongestant and antiviral properties which make it a great ally against ENT conditions… but also in spring and summer to protect against ticks. And she’s not the only one to have this benefit. Also, if you have difficulty putting up with its strong smell, know that you can use the essential oils of radiant eucalyptus, lemon eucalyptus, Java lemongrass, peppermint or even palmarosa on your clothes to hold ticks at a distance.
Generally, colorless essential oils do not stain clothes, however, colored ones can leave marks. Check beforehand by pouring one or two drops into your hand. Finally, a few precautions to keep in mind. Tea tree essential oil is not for everyone. It is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women, children under 15 years old and people with epilepsy. It should also not be used on injured or damaged skin. Before use, it is recommended to carry out a skin test on the elbow crease.