Cistus Tea has been in use to help prevent ticks from attaching to dogs and humans! Not only are we finding less ticks on us after time out in the woods, but those we do find are not attached! Like synthetic repellants, tick-repellant plants deter ticks and insects with their natural smell. These plants contain bioactive compounds that produce a fragrance that irritates the ticks. While the smell of the tea is pleasant to us, ticks are extremely sensitive to the smell and tend to stay away. By consuming it we emit this smell. . Cistus Incanus grows in the dry, arid, harsh climate of the Mediterranean. The plant protects itself by increasing its levels of polyphenols, powerful constituents that fight oxidative stress, and free-radical damage. It is loaded with bioactive compounds, including bioflavonoids, polyphenols, catechins, rutin, proanthocyanadins, and gallic acid – these keep ticks, mosquitos, and other insects away. . Cistus also provides a range of health benefits: relieves oxidative stress, acts as a powerful antioxidant, reduced inflammation, provides immune system support, reduces inflammation, breaks down viruses and biofilms, and stimulates detoxification. It has even been used in the treatment of Lyme! . Usage: (I found this dosage online, not medical advice from me) Whether you are taking Cistus tea for mosquitoes, viruses or both, it’s important to drink it daily and throughout the day. For Lyme disease, Dr Klinghardt has said that adding stevia boosts its effectiveness. Linden Botanicals suggests boiling 1/8oz of herb in 8oz of water for 25 minutes. Be sure to use a lid to retain the essential oils. There is research indicating that a long boil of 35 minutes is optimal. You can brew the herbs again two or three more times. ticks woodticks LTKActive LTKFamily LTKSeasonal