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Tick Bite Prevention

Spring is here and the weather is warming. This is a wonderful time of year and many of us are spending more time outdoors. Along with the warmer weather, however, comes tick season (approximately May-September). A certain type of tick called the blacklegged tick (AKA deer tick) may bear Lyme disease. Lyme disease is endemic in our region and can potentially be a serious disease. It is very important to be aware of potential risk and take precautions for preventing tick bites. Below are some tips for reducing risk of being bitten by a tick.

1. When outdoors in your yard or wooded area
   • Use an essential oil based insect/tick repellent such as Tick Guard or Herbal Armor. These can be applied to the skin and are safe for children.
   • Wear light colored clothes, long sleeves, pants and boots. Tuck pants in your boots. Wear a sunhat to shield your head, hair and face.  
   • Be sure to take these precautions if you have a wooded lot, will be in a wooded area or where there is tall grass.
2. When returning indoors, undress immediately and throw your clothes in the dryer – the heat of the dryer will kill the ticks. It is also wise to shower.
3. Spray Permethrin insect repellent on your clothes, gear and tent. This is not a natural supplement but using this is MUCH MUCH better than being bit by a tick and risking development of Lyme disease.
4. Remove Ticks properly as soon as noticed. Here is an easy guide from the CDC, http://www.cdc.gov/lyme/removal/index.html. There is little risk of getting Lyme disease if the tick is removed within 24 hours.
5. Boost your immune system during the season to help your body fight infection if you are bitten by a tick.
   1. Astragalus root capsules - 1000mg daily (Adults) during tick season. Astragalus is safe for children.  This is Steven Buhner’s top recommendation for prevention. Steven Buhner is an expert on herbal treatments for Lyme disease.
   2. Other herbs to consider, especially after a tick bite: Andrographis, Cat’s Claw. See Steven Buhner’s book for specific protocols.
6. Create a landscape that is “ Tick Safe”
   1. Keep patios, play areas, and playground equipment away from shrubs, bushes, and other vegetation. Regularly remove leaf litter, clear tall grasses and brush around your home, and place wood chips or gravel between lawns and wooded areas to keep ticks away from recreational areas (and away from you).
   2. Keep deers out of your yard – use fences and avoid planting plants/trees that attract deer.
7. If you are bitten by a tick, see your doctor right away to discuss antibiotic treatment and save the tick if possible to have it tested.

Resources:

• Buhner, Steven Harrod. Healing Lyme.
• https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/tickborne/lyme/index.htm
• Dr. Alexandra Solano, MD  from Mequon, WI.
  • Website: http://milwaukeelongevitymedicine.com/

Come in and talk to Dr. Joanne on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12-7 for supplement and wellness recommendations!

Dr. Joanne Aponte is a Board Certified Naturopathic Doctor & Holistic Wellness Expert. She is available in the store every Tuesday & Thursday from 12-7 to help answer your questions regarding natural wellness.

Disclaimer: The information contained in the GHM Wellness Blog is intended for educational purposes only. The information is not intended to be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment of any medical condition. Always consult with your personal physician or other qualified health care provider before making any changes to your health care