Cedar Oil for Tick Problems

Warning labels on tick pesticides often urge you to keep out of reach of children, to wash your hands after handling, to immediately rinse any residue from your skin and to avoid the product completely if you are pregnant. Nevertheless, these toxic treatments are sprayed on the family pet; an adverse reaction could cause your pet illness and discomfort. An alternative to chemical-laden pesticides is cedar oil, which the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has recognized as safe for pets and humans. For generations cedarwood chests have protected family treasures from moths and other pests. Cedar oil can protect your family pet and home from problem ticks.

  1. Cedar Oil

    • Cedarwood oil is extracted from the Cupressaceae or conifer family, which includes cedar, juniper and cypress trees. The oil is harvested in the U.S. mainly from Virginia cedar, Texas cedar and western red cedars. It has a clean, piney scent. In addition to repelling pests, it is used as a homeopathic remedy to improve the respiratory system, treat urinary tract infections and reduce oily skin and dandruff. The oil was first used in 2000 B.C. by Egyptians during their ritual mummification process; they also infused papyrus leaves with it to repel insects. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency found that cedarwood oil is a natural tick and flea repellent when used on pets or their bedding, and that the oil posed no risk to human health or the environment.

    Pets

    • Cedar oil is now available in many tick and flea repellents online and at retail stores in shampoos, sprays and collars. Some organic brands boast of being 100 percent cedar oil. To make your own pet shampoo, combine six to 10 drops of cedar oil with 2 ounces of any biodegradable pet shampoo. Wash as normal. To make a cedar oil tick repellent for your dog, fill a glass spray bottle with distilled water. Add 10 to 20 drops cedar oil. Shake well and spray the animal as needed, avoiding its nose and ears. Use immediately before the oil and water separate.

    Home

    • The scent of cedar repels ticks --- if your tick problem extends throughout your home, cedar oil can help there also. Add 10 drops of cedar oil to a gallon bucket of soapy water and use a soft cloth to wipe down surfaces and furniture. Rinse floors and tiles with the cedar oil solution. The ticks will disappear, but the lovely woodsy scent will linger. In addition, you can use the cedar oil and water mixture to spray your yard and the entrances to your home.

    Warnings

    • Although the EPA and FDA have declared cedar oil safe for humans and pets, some manufacturers and websites recommend that pregnant and nursing women avoid it. In addition, essential oils can cause skin and mucous membrane irritation or allergic reactions in some people. If you or your pet have any health concerns, consult with a veterinarian or physician before applying. Cats are especially sensitive to essential oils, so always dilute the solution well and use with caution.