Are you desperately looking for effective essential oils to help with fleas? We have got you a whole list to kick those notorious fleas far away!
Fleas are tiny, blood-sucking parasites that can quickly turn a peaceful home into an itchy one for pets and their parents. But, worry not, we have a list of some essential oils to treat those unwanted fleas in order to keep you and your pet safe. Let’s get started without further ado.
Essential Oils To Help With Fleas
1. Lavender Oil
Benefits
Lavender oil’s has a dark horse compound, linalool, which is one of the most effective solutions to treat fleas. This oil is distilled from the fragrant lavender flower, which has been the most sought-after oil for centuries for its calming properties.
Its insect-repelling abilities are equally impressive. Its aroma helps naturally repel fleas, making it a safe and effective deterrent.
Uses
Create a simple spray by combining a few drops of lavender oil with water and a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba. Mist this solution on your pet’s coat, avoiding their eyes and mouth. Don’t forget to dilute essential oils before applying them to pets.
For a home-based approach, add a few drops of lavender oil to a diffuser or place lavender-scented sachets in strategic areas to deter fleas from entering your living space.
2. Eucalyptus Oil
Benefits
Eucalyptus oil, derived from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree, contains cineole, which is antiseptic and holds insect-repellent properties. Fleas find the strong, refreshing scent of eucalyptus highly unpleasant. This natural oil not only deters these parasites but also creates an unfriendly environment for their survival.
Uses
To use eucalyptus oil against fleas, dilute it properly with carrier oil and apply it to your pet’s coat, focusing on areas prone to flea infestations. Exercise caution, as eucalyptus oil can be toxic to some pets.
Alternatively, you can create an eucalyptus-infused spray for your home. But don’t forget to ensure proper ventilation when using eucalyptus oil indoors.
3. Lemongrass Oil
Benefits
Lemongrass oil is composed of citral, which has potent insect-repellent properties. Fleas are particularly sensitive to the zesty aroma of lemongrass. This oil not only keeps fleas at bay but also maintains a refreshing aroma in your living space.
Uses
Create a DIY repellent by combining a few drops with water and a carrier oil. Gently apply this mixture to your pet’s fur, avoiding their eyes and mouth.
For home use, you can add lemongrass oil to a diffuser or create a lemongrass-infused cleaning solution for floors and surfaces.
4. Peppermint Oil
Benefits
Peppermint oil has a high menthol content, which is a big bother to fleas. This natural oil is distilled from the leaves of the peppermint plant. Menthol’s cooling effect creates an unpleasant environment for fleas, deterring them from sticking around.
Uses
Dilute a few drops in water and spray on your pet’s bedding or around your home. Be cautious around pets, as peppermint oil can be irritating. For a more targeted approach, create a flea collar by adding a drop of diluted oil to a cotton ball and securing it to your pet’s collar.
Always conduct a patch test before applying oil directly to your pet’s skin.
5. Cinnamon Oil
Benefits
Cinnamon oil hides a secret component called cinnamaldehyde, a compound that these critters can’t stand with. It is basically extracted from the inner bark of the cinnamon tree. Its strong, warm aroma creates a hostile environment for fleas, making them seek refuge elsewhere.
Uses
Mix a few drops with water and spray it on your pet’s bedding, carpets, and furniture. For an aromatic approach, add a few drops to a diffuser to fill your home with a flea-repelling scent.
6. Basil Oil
Benefits
Basil oil’s flea-fighting prowess comes from its rich concentration of eugenol. The basil oil is taken from the basil plant; this oil is a natural and effective solution to pesky fleas. Eugenol’s powerful properties create a barrier against these fleas, making your home less appealing to them.
Uses
To utilize basil oil’s flea-repelling benefits, combine a few drops with water and spray it on your pet’s bedding, carpets, and furniture. Be mindful of your pet’s sensitivity to essential oils, as basil oil can be irritating to their skin.
For a refreshing twist, add a few drops of basil oil to your pet’s bathwater for a relaxing soak and keeping the fleas away.
7. Cardamom Oil
Benefits
Cardamom oil’s secret ingredient for flea control is cineole. It is extracted from the cardamom seeds, which come with a unique and aromatic approach to flea prevention. Cineole’s refreshing scent creates an unfavorable atmosphere for fleas, encouraging them to look for a new home.
Uses
To leverage cardamom oil’s flea-repelling abilities, mix a few drops with water and spray it on your pet’s bedding and around your home with certain cautions.
You can also add a few drops of cardamom oil to a diffuser to fill your home with a fresh and flea-repelling scent.
8. Neem Oil
Benefits
Neem oil’s versatility extends to flea control due to the presence of its natural insecticidal properties. It is derived from the neem tree, which contains azadirachtin, which helps disrupt the flea life cycle. Neem oil’s comprehensive approach not only repels adult fleas but also targets their eggs and larvae.
Uses
To harness neem oil’s flea-fighting power, dilute it according to product instructions and spray it on your pet’s bedding and around your home. Neem oil is generally safe for pets when used correctly, but always follow label directions.
For a more targeted approach, you can consider creating a neem oil-based spray for your pet’s coat, focusing on areas prone to flea infestation.
9. Clove Oil
Benefits
Clove oil contains eugenol as a primary active compound. This essential oil is extracted from the dried flower buds of the clove tree, native to Indonesia. Eugenol’s insecticidal properties help eliminate fleas effectively.
Uses
Add a few drops of clove oil to your pet’s shampoo or create a DIY flea spray and apply it to your pet’s body with caution.
10. Tea Tree Oil
Benefits
Tea tree oil, sourced from the Australian Melaleuca alternifolia plant, is an enemy of fleas. Its primary component is terpinen-4-ol, a compound with potent antiseptic and insecticidal properties. This oil not only repels fleas but also helps soothe irritated skin caused by bites.
Uses
Dilute it with carrier oil and apply it topically to your pet’s coat, avoiding eyes and mouth. For home defense, add a few drops to your pet’s bedding or create a homemade flea spray. Always prioritize safety and consult your vet before using tea tree oil on pets, as some animals can be sensitive to it.
How Do You Kick The Fleas Away?
1. Vacuum Cleaning
Your vacuum cleaner can act as the first line of defense against fleas. The fleas love to hide in carpets, upholstery, and pet bedding. Give your home a thorough vacuum, paying close attention to these areas. Empty the vacuum bag immediately outside to prevent fleas from escaping.
Repeat this process regularly to disrupt their lifecycle and reduce their population.
2. Machine Cleaning
In order to throw the fleas away, you need to do frequent laundry days, which can be an effective way to eliminate them. Wash all pet bedding, blankets, and any fabric items that have come into contact with your pet in hot water. The high temperature will kill fleas and their eggs. Dry on high heat to finish the job.
Don’t forget to wash your pet’s favorite toy and lounging spots, like their bed or your couch cushions.
3. Lemon Spray
Combine lemon peels, water, and a bit of white vinegar in a spray bottle. Let it steep for a few days, then strain and dilute the mixture.
Spray it on carpets, furniture, and pet bedding. Use it in conjunction with other methods for optimal results. Repeat this method until you see the flea-suffocating results.
4. Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a natural, non-toxic powder made from fossilized algae. Its sharp edges pierce the exoskeleton of fleas, causing them to dehydrate and die. Sprinkle it liberally on carpets, rugs, and pet bedding.
Vacuum thoroughly after a few days to remove dead fleas and their eggs. Always remember to use food-grade diatomaceous earth for pets and avoid inhaling the powder.
5. Baking Soda
Baking soda creates an alkaline environment that is inhospitable to fleas. Sprinkle it on carpets and rugs, let it sit for a few hours, then vacuum thoroughly.
It can help reduce the flea population, and it’s also used in conjunction with other methods for better and quicker results.
6. Flea Repelling Plants
Nature offers its own defense mechanism against fleas. Plants like spearmint, chrysanthemums, lavender, and pennyroyal naturally repel these parasites. Plant them in your garden or use essential oils derived from these plants to create a homemade repellent. These plants can deter fleas, but they might not completely eliminate an infestation, so it’s always a better idea to seek professional help.
Additional Ways To Use Essential Oils To Treat Fleas
1. Lemon Comb
You can try using a regular pet comb with a few drops of lemon essential oil. The zesty scent not only leaves your pet smelling fresh but also creates a suffocating environment for fleas. Gently comb through your pet’s fur, focusing on areas where fleas tend to hide. The lemon-infused comb helps to physically remove fleas and deter new ones from settling in.
2. Flea Sachet
Fill a small muslin or cotton pouch with dried lavender flowers and a few drops of lemon essential oil. Place this sachet in your pet’s bed, car seat, or any area they frequently rest. The combined power of lavender and lemon creates a fragrant barrier that repels fleas, promoting a peaceful sleep for both you and your pet.
Preventive Measures To Consider
Consider the following precautions for the safe side:
- Some pets might be sensitive to essential oils. Start with a diluted solution and monitor for any adverse reactions. Also, go for the oils known to be safe for pets, like lavender, cedarwood, and peppermint.
- Before introducing any new substance to your pet’s environment, it’s wise to get professional advice.
- Over-concentration can cause skin irritation. Adhere to guidelines provided by experts.
- Understand the properties of each oil and its potential benefits and risks for your pet.
- Diffusing oils in your home or using them in pet-safe sprays can be effective without direct contact.
- Keep an eye on your pet for any itching, redness, or unusual behavior after using essential oils.
- Discontinue use immediately if you notice any adverse reactions and consult your vet.