Ticks Avoid These 6 Scents

Whether terrorizing your pets or hitching a ride, ticks are an obnoxious part of life outdoors. But these tiny bloodsuckers are more than just a nuisance; certain species are the primary carriers of Lyme disease, which is a growing public health concern. And new species are spreading. For example, the longhorned tick, which was discovered in Connecticut in 2018, is now considered an emerging invasive species in the northeastern state. 

In light of rising tick populations, learning how to prevent bites from these critters is crucial to our health. Ticks are masters at feeding on people and animals without being detected. As they feed, these resilient parasites may be infecting their host. Fortunately, ticks tend to avoid certain scents.

This slideshow covers tick-related information, such as the most common species, usual behaviors, and six different odors that they can’t stand. We also explain how to make your own tick repellent. Learn how to safely use these scents to ward off ticks.

• The Asian longhorned tick has been found in alarming numbers in Connecticut
• It reproduces without mating, allowing it to spread rapidly
• Found in New Haven and Fairfield counties, it increases the risk of disease

• Ticks latch onto hosts from grass and shrubs and feed slowly
• They can go unnoticed while feeding for several days
• They crawl onto hosts, often reaching the head before attaching

• Also called the deer tick, it transmits Lyme disease to humans
• Larvae feed on mice, while adults prefer deer and humans
• Nymphs are tiny and brown, posing a high risk to humans

• A widespread species that targets dogs and raccoons as adults
• Known carriers of diseases like ehrlichiosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever
• Larvae and nymphs feed on smaller mammals

• Found in southern states, these ticks stay on one host for life
• They mainly infest horses, cattle, and deer
• They don’t transmit diseases to humans but affect animals

• Known as kennel ticks, this species primarily infests dogs
• Can live indoors in cracks or under furniture
• Rarely bite humans and are not disease carriers for people

• Essential oils can help repel ticks naturally
• Scents they hate include lemon, orange, lavender, cinnamon, peppermint, and rose geranium
• These oils can be mixed to create an effective spray

• Lemon's bright, refreshing aroma is disliked by ticks
• It also has antibacterial properties and uplifts mood
• Use it as part of a repellent spray mix

• Lavender helps humans relax but also repels ticks
• Lavender essential oil is toxic to pets, so avoid using it on animals
• Apply carefully to humans or surfaces to keep ticks at bay during outdoor activities

• Cinnamon’s warm, spicy scent repels ticks effectively
• It boosts mood and helps with fatigue and stress
• Useful in natural repellents for tick prevention

• This scent is delightful and sweeter than lemon.
• It is just as bright and refreshing as its citrus counterpart
• Has the power to repel ticks while freshening your space.

• Peppermint is great for morning use due to its energizing qualities
• It can improve mental clarity
• The essential oil has the potential to relieve headaches, as well as repel ticks.

• Rose geranium is a fantastic, calming scent
• The uplifting floral notes can quell your nerves
• Works double time, keeping ticks at bay