A researcher in Nova Scotia has proven that lemongrass essential oil can be used to repel ticks.
The finding is particularly important in the province, which has increased black legs tic in recent years.
“It is the checkout that can transmit bacteria that cause Lyme disease. Unfortunately here in Nova Scotia, we have a very large population of black legs and we must be very cautious, “said Dr. Nicoletta Faraone of Acadia University.
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She says that the biodegradable properties of essential oils can make them safer for humans and the environment in relation to synthetic formulas.
“Our study shows us that natural products can be a very good alternative to protect us from tick bites,” said.
“What a repellant does, it masks the nose of a tick and does not allow the tick to feel. It is a good way to understand the behavior of ticks and this will help us with future studies to select the right repellent and find a good formulation to help advance our protection against tick stings.”
Dr. Jennifer Cram, public health doctor, says that tick populations are increasing not only in Nova Scotia but also across the country.
“What I can tell you about the disease transmitted by ticks in Nova Scotia is that it is there and that it is there to stay and therefore what is really important, these are these preventive actions because if you are bitten by a tick on black legs, there is a chance that you can get this infection,” said Cram.
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