Plants That Repel Ticks and Mosquitoes

Looking for all-natural plants that repel ticks, mosquitoes, and other pests? Try Mediterranean Cistus incanus herbal tea.

DEET, or N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide, is one of the most widely used active ingredients in insect repellents. First developed by the U.S. Army in 1946 for soldiers in insect-heavy areas, DEET has since become a household name in the fight against biting insects like mosquitoes and ticks.

While DEET is highly effective, concerns have been raised about its potential health effects, leading to a growing interest in plants that repel ticks and other natural herbal alternatives.

Potential Health Effects of DEET

DEET works by confusing the insect’s sense of smell, making it difficult for them to recognize humans as a target. It’s effective, but its widespread use has prompted research into its safety, particularly with long-term or heavy exposure.

One of the most common side effects of DEET is skin irritation, particularly when used in high concentrations. For some people, applying DEET can lead to redness, rash, or even swelling. This is why DEET products typically come with recommendations to avoid applying it to broken or irritated skin and to wash it off after returning indoors.

There have been some reports suggesting that DEET could have neurotoxic effects, particularly with heavy or prolonged exposure. Symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea have been reported, especially in cases where DEET was used inappropriately, such as ingestion or inhalation.

Although these cases are rare, they highlight the need for caution, especially in children, who may be more vulnerable to these effects.

A Duke University scientist found that frequent and prolonged DEET exposure led to diffuse brain cell death and behavioral changes. His conclusion: stay away from products containing DEET. Most data on DEET’s toxic effects stem from reports of ingestion of the chemical. When you spray yourself with a DEET-based repellent, be sure to keep your mouth shut.

DEET’s environmental impact is another concern. EPA studies have found that DEET can persist in the environment, contaminating water sources and affecting aquatic life. This has led to increased scrutiny over its use, especially in large quantities or in sensitive environments.

Given these potential risks, there’s a growing interest in finding safer, more natural alternatives such as plants that can repel ticks and mosquitoes without the same level of concern.

DEET vs. Plants That Repel Ticks and Mosquitoes

In response to the concerns about DEET, many people are turning to plant-based repellents as a safer alternative. These natural products typically use essential oils derived from plants that have insect-repellent properties, such as citronella, eucalyptus, lemon balm, and lavender.

While natural repellents may not always be as long-lasting as DEET, some have been shown to be effective, especially when applied frequently.

For instance, oil of lemon eucalyptus has been recognized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as providing protection similar to DEET against mosquitoes. Other essential oils like citronella and peppermint also show promise in repelling both mosquitoes and ticks.

Of all the plants that repel ticks and mosquitoes, our favorite is all-natural Mediterranean Cistus incanus herbal tea.

Natural repellents are generally considered safer for both humans and the environment. They are less likely to cause skin irritation, and they don’t carry the same neurotoxic risks as DEET. They are also biodegradable and less likely to accumulate in the environment, making them a more eco-friendly option.

Finally, the trend toward natural products is part of a larger movement towards cleaner, safer personal care products. Many consumers are now prioritizing products that are free from synthetic chemicals, particularly for use on their skin.

This shift is supported by an increasing availability of natural repellents in stores and online, catering to those looking for effective yet gentle insect protection.

Keep Ticks and Mosquitoes Away with Cistus incanus Tea

If you’re looking for a natural insect repellent, try the pleasant-tasting tea made from a Mediterranean plant called Cistus incanus.

Cistus incanus tea is gaining attention for its potential to repel ticks and mosquitoes, thanks to its bioactive compounds that may offer natural protection against these pests. Here’s how it works:

Cistus incanus, a type of rockrose, is particularly rich in polyphenols, which are plant compounds known for their antioxidant properties. Some of these polyphenols have been found to have insect-repellent effects.

When consumed, the compounds from Cistus incanus may be excreted through the skin, subtly altering body odor in a way that makes humans less attractive to ticks and mosquitoes.

The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of Cistus incanus tea can also contribute to its repellent effects. While these properties primarily benefit skin health and immune function, they may also reduce the chances of skin infections that can occur from insect bites, thereby indirectly helping to deter ticks and mosquitoes.

Cistus incanus tea might also affect the body odor of those who consume it regularly, making them less appealing to blood-sucking insects like mosquitoes and ticks. These insects are often attracted to certain chemicals and scents emitted by human skin. By altering these scents, Cistus incanus tea could reduce the likelihood of bites.

Some people also use Cistus incanus tea topically as a natural insect repellent. The tea can be brewed and applied to the skin, where it forms a protective layer that deters insects. This method is based on the presence of volatile oils in the plant, which can mask the natural human scent that attracts mosquitoes and ticks.

Are There Really Plants That Repel Ticks and Mosquitoes?

Yes. Regular Cistus tea drinkers may suffer fewer mosquito bites and tick bites. For another, Cistus may also offer significant immune support and relief of cold and flu symptoms.

Studies have shown that Cistus has powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and biofilm-breaking qualities. That’s why it’s one of six super-botanicals included in our proprietary ShieldsUp! Immune Support Kit.

Cistus is a source of polyphenols, proanthocyanadins, bioflavonoids, catechins, gallic acid, rutin, and other beneficial bioactive compounds. It makes a mild, floral loose-leaf tea. It’s a fantastic natural insect repellent and a great alternative to chemical-laden DEET.

Ready to stop using DEET? Then start drinking two cups a day of Cistus tea for at least a week in order to realize its natural insect repellent effects and help keep mosquitoes away.

Plants That Repel Ticks: Cistus incanus Tea

It can be difficult to identify a reputable, reliable source of Cistus incanus tea. Climate, growth habitat, soil quality, and harvesting practices matter.

Our Mediterranean Cistus is wild grown, pesticide and heavy metal free, and responsibly handpicked during the budding season from the island’s mountainous regions. (Winter-harvested Cistus tends to test lower in bioactives.)

Our Cistus incanus is cut and prepared to ensure the highest quality and most available polyphenol content. Our Cistus tea offers access to more phytonutrients and potency than the less discriminating cuts many other suppliers sell. We pay a premium for our Cistus to secure a high-quality product and maintain our philosophy of a non-violent economy.

Our processor is a third-generation family company. The owners know their plants well and appreciate the difference between wild-grown herbs and greenhouse-cultivated crops. We are confident in the quality of our product, and we back up our confidence with testing.

Try Cistus incanus Herbal Tea Today

While DEET remains a highly effective insect repellent, its potential health risks and environmental impact have led many to seek out natural alternatives.

Plant-based repellents offer a safer option for those concerned about the chemicals in traditional products, and they are gaining popularity as more people prioritize natural and sustainable choices in their daily lives.

Whether you choose DEET or a natural alternative, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and choose the option that best fits your health needs and environmental values.

If you want an all-natural alternative to DEET, Cistus incanus tea may be the natural insect repellent you’re seeking. Of all the plants that repel ticks and mosquitoes, it’s quite possibly the best. And it’s a healthy tea with a broad range of health benefits.

To learn more about Cistus incanus, start with the FAQ.