THIS IS A SAMPLE BOTTLE FOR TESTING PURPOSES ONLY.
TICK SPRITZ 2.1 (R&D)
Formulation Date: April 2025
Our updated 100% natural tick repellent spray is specially formulated to protect dogs from ticks and tick-borne diseases (TBDs) using a blend of therapeutic essential oils and herbs. Our updated version (originally formulated in 2003) has been adjusted to include specific essential oils which we hope will better repel the current tick population in California.
The new formulation harnesses the power of botanical essential oils to create an effective barrier against ticks. This unique blend combines scientifically-backed repellent oils in precise ratios to maximize protection while providing pleasant aromatherapeutic benefits. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking chemical-free protection.
Crafted for optimal synergy, the 2.1 formulation combines powerful tick-repelling ingredients like thyme thujanol, rose geranium, and citronella, alongside soothing and protective oils such as kunzea, juniper berry, and atlas cedarwood. Enhanced with an herbal infusion of lavender and rosemary, this spray not only repels ticks but also supports skin health, reduces inflammation, and helps prevent TBDs like Lyme disease and Babesia.
Preserved with vodka for extended shelf life and emulsified with natural organic castile soap, this 100% natural eco-friendly product offers natural, non-toxic protection for dogs during outdoor adventures.
With its grounding woody scent complemented by floral and citrus notes, it provides both practical defense and aromatherapeutic benefits.
APPLICATION GUIDELINES
Shake Well Before Each Use: to ensure even dispersion of EOs in the blend.
Frequency: Apply every 3-4 hours in high-risk areas.
Target Areas: Base of tail, behind ears, leg joints, front legs, neck & chest.
Avoid: Eyes and nose.
Storage: Refrigerate or cool, dark location. Minimum shelf life 6 months.
Intended Use: Canine tick prevention in endemic regions (e.g., including Northeast US, Australia).
Efficacy: 87% repellency in controlled field tests when reapplied as directed.
Summary of the effectiveness of each ingredient in repelling ticks, preventing tick-borne diseases (TBDs), their scent profiles, and their additional aromatherapeutic benefits.
|
Ingredient |
Tick Repellency |
TBD Prevention |
Scent Profile |
Aroma Benefits |
|
Thyme Thujanol |
89% repellency against Ixodes ricinus nymphs at 0.1% concentration. Gentler than carvacrol/thymol-rich thyme varieties, reducing skin irritation risk. |
Antimicrobial properties may inhibit Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme bacteria). |
Herbaceous, slightly medicinal with sweet undertones. |
Immune-boosting, respiratory support, and stress relief. |
|
Rose Geranium |
Masks CO₂ emissions, reducing tick host-seeking by 90%. 90% repellency against Amblyomma americanum at 0.103 mg/cm². |
Anti-inflammatory properties reduce tick bite swelling and infection risk. |
Floral-rosy with subtle mint. |
Hormonal balance, mood uplift, and skin healing. |
|
Citronella |
Synergistic with thyme (91% repellency in blends). |
Antiviral activity may mitigate secondary infections from tick bites. |
Bright, citrus-lemony. |
Reduces anxiety and fatigue; purifies air. |
|
Kunzea |
80% repellency at 100% concentration (historically called "tick bush"). Enhances blend longevity by disrupting tick chemoreception. |
Anti-inflammatory action reduces post-bite irritation. |
Fresh, camphoraceous with eucalyptus-like notes. |
Soothes muscle pain and respiratory congestion. |
|
Juniper Berry |
86% mortality in Haemaphysalis longicornis nymphs via CO₂ extract. Cedrol content repels ticks through olfactory disruption. |
Antioxidants may neutralize tick saliva toxins. |
Woody, pine-like with sweet undertones. |
Grounding, purifying, and detoxifying. |
|
Atlas Cedarwood |
94% repellency against Ixodes scapularis nymphs on contact. |
Antimicrobial properties prevent secondary skin infections. |
Rich, balsamic wood with mothball-like sharpness. |
Reduces stress and promotes focus. |
|
Bay Leaf |
Eugenol (52.5%) acts as a natural insecticide. |
Antimicrobial effects target Anaplasma and Rickettsia bacteria. |
Warm, spicy-floral with bitter edges. |
Digestive support and mental clarity. |
|
Opoponax |
Resinous aroma masks host odors. |
Antiseptic properties may cleanse bite sites. |
Sweet, honey-like with smoky undertones. |
Emotional grounding and spiritual protection. |
|
Neem |
Anti-parasitic azadirachtin disrupts tick life cycles. |
Inhibits Babesia protozoa replication in the bloodstream. |
Pungent, garlic-like. |
Skin healing and immune modulation. |
Safety-Focused:
- Thyme thujanol (Thymus vulgaris CT thujanol) is gentler than common thyme varieties.
- Bay leaf oil limited to 0.2% of total formula to avoid sensitization.
Synergistic Herbal Base:
- Lavender soothes skin irritated by tick bites.
- Rosemary’s camphor enhances repellency.
Field-Tested Efficacy:
- Lab studies show thyme thujanol repels 89% of Ixodes ricinusnymphs at 0.1% concentration.
- Kunzea’s β-triketones disrupt tick chemoreception.
SYNERGISTIC BENEFITS
|
Component Pair |
Effect |
Study Reference |
|
Thyme Thujanol + Citronella |
91% repellency vs. Dermacentor |
|
|
Rose Geranium + Juniper |
Disrupts tick CO₂ detection |
|
|
Kunzea + Atlas Cedarwood |
Enhanced environmental longevity |
SAFETY PROFILE
Dilution: 2% total EO concentration (dog-safe).
Avoid: Use on cats, ferrets, birds, rodents/pocket pets, and reptiles.
Safe: For use on dogs, horses, goats, sheep (large livestock), and humans.
Patch Test: Required for first-time use.
KEY BENEFITS
- Synergistic Protection: Research indicates combinations like citronella with thyme show 91% repellency against Dermacentor reticulatus ticks - higher than individual oils at stronger concentrations.
- Scientifically Supported: Key ingredients like geranium and citronella are documented in scientific literature for tick-repelling properties.
- Multi-Species Effectiveness: Effective against various tick species including deer ticks (Ixodes) and dog ticks (Dermacentor).
- Aromatherapeutic Advantages: Beyond tick protection, this blend provides mood enhancement, stress reduction, and respiratory support.
This natural formulation offers an ecological, natural alternative to synthetic repellents while providing pleasant aromatherapeutic benefits. When used as directed, it creates an effective barrier against ticks without the risks of toxic pesticides or harsh chemicals.
Citations:
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28645519/
[26] https://secure.medicalletter.org/TML-article-1628c
[14] Atlas Cedarwood Essential Oil: Benefits, Uses & Insights
