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BeautyDeals
Real discussions from product enthusiasts
Geranium Oil: Top Choice for Ticks and Gnats
Community members frequently cite geranium essential oil as highly effective for repelling ticks and gnats. Some users describe it as the "BEST tick repellent ever!" and recommend direct application to skin for protection during outdoor activities.
Geranium Oil vs. DEET for Mosquitoes: Mixed Results
While some users believe heavily applied geranium oil sprays can perform comparably to chemical repellents for mosquitoes, others find it less effective. In high-pressure environments, DEET and Picaridin are often preferred for their reliability and longer duration.
Scientific Basis for Geranium's Mosquito Repellency
Studies indicate that geraniol, a key component in geranium oil, can repel approximately 97% of mosquitoes when diffused. This provides a scientific foundation for its use, though real-world application effectiveness can vary.
Natural Repellents Require Frequent Reapplication
Discussions on ultralight forums highlight that while natural options like geranium oil are explored, they often necessitate more frequent reapplication compared to DEET or Picaridin. This trade-off between natural ingredients and sustained protection is a common theme.
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Key features: 100% Pure Geranium Essential Oil, USDA Certified Organic & Highly Concentrated., Geranium oil is widely used as an ingredient in perfumes and cosmetics. The essential oil is also used in aromatherapy., Geranium oil is non-toxic, non-irritant and generally non-sensitizing., Primary chemical constituent for Geranium plan is Citronellol which is a monoterpene alcohol., Natural, Unfiltered, Undiluted, No Toxins, No Additives, No Preservatives, Packaged in the USA, Cruelty Free Product, Not Tested on Animals- Leaping Bunny Program Certified..
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Expert answers based on real user experience
Community discussions frequently highlight geranium key oil's efficacy against ticks and gnats. Users report it works "really well," with some calling it the "BEST tick repellent ever!" when applied topically to pulse points like wrists, behind ears, and ankles. While not always directly compared to chemical treatments for these specific pests, its consistent mention as a primary natural solution for ticks and gnats suggests a high degree of perceived effectiveness in preventing bites in moderate conditions.
r/campingandhiking, r/hiking, r/Permies
Scientific studies indicate that geraniol, a primary chemical constituent of geranium oil, demonstrates significant mosquito repellent properties. When released into the air, geraniol has been shown to repel approximately 97% of mosquitoes. This suggests a solid biological mechanism for its efficacy, providing a quantifiable basis for its use in natural insect repellent formulations, though practical application methods and environmental factors can influence real-world results.
r/todayilearned
Community feedback on mosquito repellency is mixed. Some users suggest that heavily applied geranium oil sprays can perform "at least 90% as well as chemical ones." However, in environments with high mosquito pressure, many users find conventional repellents like DEET or Picaridin offer more reliable and longer-lasting protection. Frequent reapplication of geranium oil is often necessary, unlike chemical alternatives that can provide protection for 4-8 hours depending on concentration.
r/camping, r/Ultralight
Users commonly apply diluted geranium oil to exposed skin, including wrists, ankles, and the back of the neck, or even to gear like headlamps. Some DIY enthusiasts incorporate it into scented candles. While generally considered non-toxic and non-irritant, a rare concern has been raised about potential bear attraction, though this is unconfirmed. It's important to note that effectiveness can vary, and it may require reapplication more frequently than synthetic repellents.
r/campingandhiking, r/camping, Gardenista
While discussions confirm geranium oil requires more frequent reapplication than DEET or Picaridin, specific quantified duration data is scarce in community forums. Unlike chemical repellents with documented protection periods of up to 8 hours (e.g., 20% Picaridin), the evaporation rate and skin absorption of geranium oil mean its efficacy can diminish within 1-3 hours, especially under conditions of high heat or perspiration. Users often reapply every 2-4 hours for sustained protection.
Community discussions on reapplication needs.
The precise impact of environmental factors like wind, humidity, and water exposure on geranium oil's repellent duration is not well-quantified in user reports. High winds can accelerate evaporation, potentially reducing efficacy within 30-60 minutes. Water contact, such as swimming or heavy sweating, would likely wash away topical applications, necessitating immediate reapplication. Unlike IPX7-rated chemical repellent formulations designed for water resistance, key oils are susceptible to dilution and dispersion.
General outdoor use observations.
A user expressed concern about geranium oil potentially attracting bears, but this remains unconfirmed by scientific studies or widespread community experience. While bears are attracted to strong scents, key oils like geranium are typically used in very small concentrations and are not commonly cited as primary attractants in the same way as food sources. Standard bear safety protocols, including proper food storage and scent management, remain paramount regardless of repellent choice.
r/CampingandHiking
