Prevent Bug Bites with Cistus Tea

Cistus tea drinkers may prevent bug bites and mosquito and tick bites. Drink two cups per day.

Should You Prevent Bug Bites with DEET?

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 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 who want to prevent bug bites should stay away from products containing it. Other studies have shown that some people may have a sensitivity to DEET but most aren’t affected when they use DEET products periodically and follow the instructions on the label.

Our takeaway? 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.

What’s an All-Natural Alternative to DEET?

Over the years, Cistus incanus tea 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!) Bonus: drinking Cistus may also be able to help the body deal with retro-viruses.

Cistus incanus, also called Rock Rose, 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 want to prevent bug bites.

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

Where Can You Buy Cistus Tea?

If you’re looking for an alternative to DEET to prevent bug bites, 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 Mediterranean 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.

Cistus incanus is our bestselling tea for a reason. It’s time to start drinking healthy Cistus tea!

Cistus FAQ Buy Cistus