Does lemongrass really repel ticks? This expert decided to find out
As the weather warms up in Nova Scotia, residents are gearing up for tick season. Blacklegged ticks, also known as deer ticks, are common in the province and pose a risk to humans and animals by transmitting diseases such as Lyme disease.
Researchers at Acadia University’s chemistry department are exploring the use of lemongrass essential oil as a natural tick repellent. Dr. Nicolette Faraone shared insights on their latest study during an interview with CBC Radio’s Maritime Noon.
In their experiments, ticks showed a clear aversion to lemongrass essential oil, moving away from treated areas and displaying signs of discomfort. The main components responsible for this effect were identified as citral geraniol and geranyl, which are also found in other essential oils like lemon and citrus.
One of the advantages of using lemongrass essential oil as a tick repellent is its natural origin, making it a safer alternative to chemical-based products like DEET. Essential oils are biodegradable and have less impact on the environment and human health when used correctly.
The findings from this study offer promise in the fight against ticks, especially as their populations continue to grow due to climate change. Understanding how essential oils disrupt the ticks’ ability to detect hosts can lead to the development of more effective repellent products.
Future research will focus on unraveling the mechanisms behind tick repellency and attraction, with the goal of creating innovative products for protection against tick-borne diseases. Collaboration with companies like AtlanTick in Nova Scotia demonstrates a commitment to translating scientific discoveries into practical solutions for the community.
As tick season approaches, Nova Scotians can stay informed and proactive in safeguarding themselves against these tiny but dangerous pests. With ongoing research and innovation, the battle against ticks and the diseases they carry is far from over.
