Tick-Talk

One of the most dreaded summer insects is the tick, which can transmit a wide range of infections including bacterial, viral and parasitic diseases. Ticks are part of the mite family and it is estimated that there are over 800 species of ticks in the world. The tick that generates the most concern across the United States is the Ixodes scapularis species, known as the “deer tick” which carries Lyme disease, human anaplasmosis, and babesiosis.
In the Western United States region, we’re blessed with a special kind of tick called Dermacentor andersoni that can transmit an infection called Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. Both Lyme and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever can be serious and result in chronic health issues if not properly addressed.  While these little critters are something to take seriously, we don’t want you to live your summer days in fear. If you find a tick on yourself or a loved one, remove it as soon as you see it. A 2015 study from the International Journal of General Medicine showed that Lyme disease could be transmitted in as little as 16 hours according to current data. Because the bite of the tick is painless and includes suppression of the histamine response, it can be difficult to assess how long the tick has been feeding.

How to remove a tick from your body:

Carefully remove the tick with tweezers if it has embedded into the skin. Aim the nose of the tweezers as close to the skin as possible to grasp the head and mouthparts, then pull the tick directly out of the skin without twisting or jerking. Wash the area thoroughly with soap and water and rubbing alcohol or colloidal silver solution. While Lyme disease is not considered endemic to the Rocky Mountain region, we have certainly seen cases of it in Colorado. We recommend keeping the tick in a jar with a lid so it can be used for identification and testing if you start to develop symptoms. Symptoms you’ll want to watch for include the classic “bulls-eye” rash, fever, chills, muscle aches and fatigue.

    Natural Bug Repellants

    A number of research studies on natural tick and mosquito repellents have been published over the past 10 years. Essential oils can be highly effective in repelling these critters. Natural bug sprays with these essential oils can be purchased at any health food store and online. Check out our list of favorites below!

    Rosemary & Peppermint Essential Oils

    In this 2013 study researchers compared an insecticidal product made from rosemary and peppermint oils, to a commercial acaricidal product. Both products were applied in separate patches within the test area during nymphal and adult season peaks. Both products reduced the population of Ixodes scapularis ticks to zero, with effects lasting 6 months after application. What’s even better, the rosemary and peppermint oil product did not disturb foliage or presence of bees or other pollinating insects.

    Cedarwood Oil

    This study published in 2014 investigated the repellent and acaricidal efficacy of cedarwood oil on ants and ticks. The ants were significantly repelled by the cedarwood oil and ticks showed a dose-dependent response when exposed to the oil. At a dose of 6.3mg/ml of cedarwood oil, 100% of the ticks were killed.

    Clove & Citronella

    This 2017 study compared a number of different oils and their ability to repel ticks. Researchers found that a concentration of 3% clove oil was 82% effective at repelling Dermacentor reticulatus ticks. Results were even better when researchers combined thyme and citronella (1.5% of each) in a solution, which had 91% effectiveness at repelling the ticks studied.

    Combination Essential Oil Products

    A 2017 study in the Journal of Parasitology Research compared effectiveness of single and combined preparations of holy basil, peppermint, eucalyptus and a plant called Plectranthus amboinicus with an oregano-like flavor to DEET within a 6-hour time frame. They measured the number of times female mosquitos landed within the treated areas. Results showed that the combined preparations of the essential oils performed as well as DEET with zero mosquito landings.

    Check Out Our Favorite Products!

    • Nantucket Spider – They have several natural bug repellent products including a line for kids, summer camp, dogs and extra strength tick repellent.

    Keep the Bugs Away- More Helpful Tips

    • With essential oil insect repellents you will need to reapply the solution every few hours to maintain protection.
    • Stay on the trails when hiking to avoid tall grasses and brush areas. This reduces chance of ticks hitching a ride on you and also helps preserve the fragile ecosystem.
    • Remove clothing and shower soon after coming in from outdoor activities.
    • Wear light colored clothing to make it easier to see and remove ticks quickly.
    • If sitting outside, use a fan to deter mosquitos from landing.
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