But I always take the time to make sure a new treatment is safe before I use it on my dogs.
Additionally, even though essential oils are natural, that does not guarantee that they are secure. Several essential oils can be dangerous, especially if they are accidentally consumed or not diluted properly.
One such essential oil is tea tree oil. Despite being present in many pet products, it is never safe for your dog to consume and is not always safe to use in home remedies.
Internet research revealed that tea tree oil is very effective at getting rid of fleas, but using it on your dog requires the utmost caution.
How Does Tea Tree Oil Work?
Terpenes are particular elements of tea tree oil that have been discovered to be advantageous. Through the activation of white blood cells, the terpene terpinen-4-ol, which is present in tea tree oil, is known to have antibacterial and antifungal effects on people. Another terpene found in tea tree oil, 1,8-cineole, has demonstrated to be somewhat effective in eliminating a variety of parasites, and limonene, yet another terpene, has been discovered to specifically eradicate Ctenocephalides felis, the flea species most frequently found on pets.
Various terpene types can be found in various plants, and they are also in charge of how a plant smells. This indicates that terpenes are responsible for the potent aromas of essential oils and that they also function in the body’s endocannabinoid system. Numerous bodily processes are regulated by the endocannabinoid system, but more research is needed to fully comprehend how this system operates. Tea tree oil may be a useful alternative treatment because of the terpenes.
Does Tea Tree Oil Kill Fleas?
Although whole tea tree oil has been shown to be effective in killing some species of ticks and lice, there is no published, scientific evidence that the oil specifically kills fleas. Additionally, it is frequently believed that tea tree oil as a whole will be effective because limonene, a natural component, has been shown to be effective against fleas.
How to use it to soothe bites and repel fleas from people?
Thankfully, we are not the ideal flea meal target, and since we are not covered in fur, they find it difficult to cling to our skin. However, since fleas require food, they will attempt to bite you if there are no nearby dogs or cats.
I have some good news for you if you are being attacked. Tea tree oil can be applied to itch-causing bites as well as to keep fleas away. Here are the steps:
Using tea tree oil for bites on your skin:
Step 2: Mix two drops of tea tree oil with a quarter cup of your preferred carrier oil. If you don’t have any coconut oil, you can just use water instead. I like to use a small bottle with a cork lid because it seals well after mixing it up.
Step 3: Apply directly to each bite with a cotton bud. If your hands are clean, you can also just apply it with your finger. The oil’s anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities will soothe itching, eradicate any bacteria, and lessen swelling. This is especially helpful if you have trouble not scratching it because doing so can make it worse.
PRO TIP: Reapply this oil mixture two or three times daily. For young children, use one drop of tea tree oil in the aforementioned recipe; do not use on infants under the age of three months. Although it’s unlikely, keep in mind to stop using if you experience any negative side effects. Last but not least, avoid letting pets lick the treated area as mentioned in the safely section. Ingestion could result in illness.
Using tea tree oil to repel fleas from your legs:
Step 2: Mist the remedy on your feet, legs, and any clothing you’re wearing (such as jeans, etc.). ). This is one of my favorite flea repellents because fleas absolutely detest the smell and will flee in the opposite direction when they smell the mixture.
PRO TIP: You can add 2-3 drops of another sweet-smelling essential oil (like lavender or rosemary) to this oil to help cover up the oil’s slightly antiseptic odor if you don’t like it. Please keep in mind that it is extremely unlikely that your itchy head is caused by fleas, but if you want to be certain, a quick shampoo wash will instantly kill them. If it still itches after this, please see a doctor.
FAQ
Is tea tree oil OK for dogs?
There are many different concentrations of tea tree oil, and using it on pets in high concentrations is never a good idea. Applications of 10-20 mls of 100% oil have caused poisoning and death in both dogs and cats, and as little as 7 drops of 100% oil have caused severe poisoning.
How do you use tea tree oil to kill fleas?
Spray your entire body with tea tree oil after adding it to a spray bottle. Repeat the misting while massaging the tea tree oil into your skin. Without massaging your skin, let the second misting absorb naturally into it. Tea tree oil should be applied twice daily to your body to prevent fleas from returning.
What is the fastest way to get rid of fleas on a dog?
Bathing your pet is one of the first ways to get rid of fleas. Fleas can be removed from your pet’s fur and skin using only lukewarm water, or water and a mild soap. The dish soap can help to drown adult fleas. Consult your veterinarian first before using any flea shampoo or similar products.