Stop Using DEET and Start Drinking Cistus Tea

Why risk using DEET when you can repel mosquitoes, ticks, and other pests with Cistus incanus tea?

What Is DEET, and Is It Dangerous?

Many people have reservations about using DEET.

DEET is the common name for N,N-Diethyl-m-toluamide. It has been used as an insect repellent since it was developed by the U.S. Army in 1946.

DEET repels not by killing mosquitoes or other insects but by preventing them from landing on skin or clothing in the first place. No one is exactly sure how it works. One theory is that it blocks an insect’s ability to smell human sweat and breath. Another suggests that it smells so bad to most bugs that they want to avoid all contact with it.

A study conducted in the late 1980s on Everglades National Park employees to determine the effects of DEET found that one-quarter of the subjects experienced negative health effects that they blamed on exposure to the chemical. Effects included rashes, skin irritation, numb or burning lips, nausea, headaches, dizziness and difficulty concentrating.

In studies on rats, Duke University scientist Mohamed Abou-Donia found that frequent and prolonged DEET exposure led to diffuse brain cell death and behavioral changes. His conclusion: humans should stay away from products containing it. Other studies have shown that some people have sensitivity to DEET but most aren’t affected when they use DEET products periodically and follow the instructions on the label.

Our take on the situation? Many chemicals come with side effects both known and unknown, and DEET may be no exception. Why chance it — especially when all-natural herbal remedies are available.

A Natural, Non-Chemical Alternative to DEET

The Cistus incanus plant isn’t all that well known in the United States, but this Mediterranean herb was the European Plant of the Year in 1999. Over the years, it has made headlines for its many health benefits. One benefit is that that regular Cistus tea drinkers may suffer fewer mosquito bites and tick bites. (Yes, you drink Cistus vs. bathe in it to become a less attractive target.) A bonus benefit: drinking Cistus may also be able to help the body deal with retro-viruses.

Cistus incanus is a source of polyphenols, proanthocyanadins, bioflavonoids, catechins, gallic acid, rutin, and other beneficial bioactive compounds. Best of all, it makes a pleasant tasting loose tea with a mild, floral-like flavor. It’s a fantastic alternative to chemical-laden DEET.

If you’re ready to stop using DEET, start drinking Cistus tea daily (about 2 cups a day) for at least a week in order to realize its insect-repellent effects.

Where to Buy Cistus Tea

If you’re looking for an alternative to DEET, Cistus incanus tea may offer the all-natural protection from mosquitoes and ticks that you’re seeking. It can be difficult to identify a reputable, reliable source of the tea. Linden Botanicals currently has Cistus incanus tea in stock. Our Cistus is cut and prepared to ensure the highest quality and most available polyphenol content. Our Cistus tea offers more phytonutrients and potency than the whole leaf cuts many other suppliers sell.

Cistus extract is also one of six super-botanicals in our proprietary Immune Support Kit. It’s time to start drinking healthy Cistus tea!

Read the Cistus FAQ  Buy Cistus Tea Now