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Treating Ticks
A Natural, Integrated Approach to Lyme Disease
By Andrea Candee
The safe, natural way to prevent tick bites is with the essential oil of eucalyptus found at the health food store. The strong but pleasant smell seems to effectively repel the ticks. There are three ways to use this aromatic oil.
In a spray bottle, add 16 ounces of water to 1 ounce of eucalyptus oil. Spray on the skin before an outdoor activity, like gardening. The bottled mixture remains potent for many months.
For longer protection, such as a hike in the woods, mix 10 drops eucalyptus into 1 ounce almond or sunflower seed oil and apply to skin and clothing. A larger amount can be pre-mixed for a camping trip or for sending off with a child to summer camp.
Protect your dog and cat from ticks and you will also be protecting yourself! Your pet may be transporting the ticks into the house. Dip a thin rope into the eucalyptus oil and wrap in a bandana. Tie the bandana around your pet's neck, refreshing the rope twice a week. Your pet will look fashionable and be protected at the same time! It is best not to tie the eucalyptus rope directly onto your pet's skin as it may cause irritation. The spray bottle of eucalyptus and water may also be used to spray your pet's coat before an outdoor romp in the grass or in the woods.
The fewer chemicals we use internally and externally will mean safer groundwater and air, healthier bodies and a reverence for life around us.
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