Acadia research finds that lemongrass oil is a natural tick repellant
From the Springboard Content Lab & Acadia University news
With tick season upon us in Atlantic Canada, a groundbreaking study from Acadia University has revealed that lemongrass oil could offer a natural alternative to repel ticks.
The research team found that blacklegged ticks (deer ticks) – carriers of Lyme Disease – do not like the scent of lemongass essential oil. The Acadia research demonstrates that the oil disrupts this olfactory system of the tick, essentially “blinding” it to potential hosts. The study, which included ticks carrying Lyme disease, found that lemongrass oil masks attractive human scents and repels the ticks.
The research team was led by Acadia Chemistry professor Dr. Nicoletta Faraone (Chemistry) who heads the Faraone Lab.
“Ticks exposed to lemongrass oil are less likely to crawl on you, and even if they’re brave enough to do so, they’re far less likely to bite. The tick will likely be repelled or become so disoriented that it drops off.”
Dr. Nicoletta Faraone, associate professor, Acadia’s chemistry department and head of the Faraone Lab
A natural alternative to DEET
One of the study’s most promising aspects is lemongrass oil’s potential as a natural alternative to synthetic chemicals such as DEET, which has been linked to environmental and health concerns, including toxicity to aquatic life and potential skin irritation.
“Lemongrass oil is not only effective but also environmentally friendly,” says Dr. Faraone. “It’s a win-win for those looking to protect themselves from ticks without the drawbacks of synthetic chemicals.”
As an added benefit, lemongrass essential oil has also been found to repel mosquitoes.
“Lemongrass oil is not only effective but also environmentally friendly. It’s a win-win for those looking to protect themselves from ticks without the drawbacks of synthetic chemicals.”
– Dr. Faraone
The science behind the discovery
Unlike many insects, blacklegged ticks (Ixodes scapularis) don’t have eyes and rely almost exclusively on their sense of smell to locate hosts, detecting chemicals like carbon dioxide and butyric acid that humans naturally emit.
“Ticks exposed to lemongrass oil are less likely to crawl on you, and even if they’re brave enough to do so, they’re far less likely to bite. The tick will likely be repelled or become so disoriented that it drops off.”
– Dr. Faraone
From lab to life
While these findings are exciting, Dr. Faraone emphasizes that their study took place in a controlled laboratory environment. She recommends using diluted or formulated versions of lemongrass essential oil, which are generally considered safe for most people.
“Even these products should be tested on a small patch of skin first to ensure they don’t cause irritations or reactions,” she says, adding that pet owners should also consult veterinarians before using any repellent around animals, as some essential oils can be toxic to cats and dogs.
The Acadia research team included Dr. Luis Anholeto (Chemistry), Dr. Kirk Hillier (Biology), and Masters graduate Kayla Gaudet. Their findings were published their findings in Current Research in Insect Science. Their work could revolutionize how we protect ourselves from these disease-carrying parasites.
Local Impact Through Innovation
Acadia University’s tick research has already made an impact through collaboration with AtlanTick Repellent Products, a Nova Scotia-based company providing natural tick and insect protection for families and pets.
Since 2017, Dr. Faraone has helped develop and optimize AtlanTick’s natural repellent formulations, ensuring they meet Health Canada’s safety and efficacy standards. Her team continues to explore new products and applications based on their ongoing research.
It’s a relationship cultivated by Acadia’s Office of Industry and Community Engagement to support local businesses and contribute to Acadia’s service mission by generating financial, economic, academic, and societal benefits for our local and regional community.
The future of tick research
Dr. Faraone and her team have begun to explore ticks in greater depth, including other tick species found in the area. The team is now investigating the impact of temperature and humidity on tick responses to gauge the effects of a warming climate.
This ongoing research could lead to even more effective tick control strategies in the future. The research is funded through an NSERC Discovery Grant, NSERC Alliance and Mitacs Accelerate grants and matched by AtlanTick.
Their work shows how academic research can benefit local businesses while contributing to community well-being through practical, science-based solutions to everyday challenges.
