Danger on the Trail: Michigan’s Tick Season in Full Swing

Danger on the Trail, photo by otisourcat

The other day I went on a hike. After I got in the car, I belatedly remembered to check for ticks and found TWO just hanging out on my leg.

You can check out the information about Michigan ticks from the State of Michigan, and you might also find these 5 essential oils that repel bugs useful:

• Lavender – This smells sweet to us but bugs absolutely hate it. It works on mosquitoes, flies and other insects.
• PennyRoyal – this is a member of the mint family and it is toxic to insects.
• Lemongrass – This essential oil comes from tropical lemongrass and has a citrusy sent. It is a natural flea and tick repellent and can be sprayed directly on the skin.
• Eucalyptus – use this alone or along with citronella oil to keep bugs away. According to the Journal of medical entomology, Eucalyptus extract can reduce tick bites and infections.
• Lemon – some lemon essential oil can work against fleas and other bugs. Slightly dilute it and spray it on your clothing and skin.

View the photo bigger and see more in otisourcat’s massive Here & Now slideshow.