Efficacy of a novel tick attractant and repellent activity of essential oils from sweet fern, Comptonia peregrina (L.) Coult

Key Points

• The essential oils from Comptonia peregrina exhibited significant repellent activity against ticks, enhancing pest management options.
• In tests, the novel tick attractant demonstrated a notable increase in tick attraction compared to controls, showcasing its efficacy.
• Assessment involved a systematic evaluation of essential oil chemical compounds and their effects on tick behavior and attraction.
• Findings suggest a promising avenue for developing natural repellents, while warranting further research on safety and effectiveness in diverse environments.