Tick Bite Prevention & Tick-Borne Disease Support Products
This page provides recommended tools, prevention strategies, and educational resources to help reduce tick exposure, respond appropriately after a tick bite, and better understand Lyme disease and other tick-borne infections.
Ticks can transmit Lyme disease and other tick-borne infections, making prevention and early response essential. Based on my clinical experience treating patients with tick bites and tick-borne diseases, I’ve curated the tools and resources below to help reduce tick exposure and support early action after a bite. Some products are available directly through my store, while others are offered through trusted partner companies.
Dr. Chesney’s Recommended Tools for Tick Bite Prevention
Preventing tick bites is the most effective way to reduce the risk of Lyme disease and other tick-borne infections. Based on my clinical experience treating patients with tick bites and tick-borne illness, I recommend approaching prevention from several complementary angles.
Effective tick prevention typically includes:
The tools and resources below reflect these strategies and can help you reduce the risk of tick-borne illness.
Effective tick prevention typically includes:
- Protective clothing such as permethrin-treated garments that repel ticks before they attach
- Tick repellents to reduce exposure during outdoor activities
- Environmental control tools to help reduce tick populations around the home
- Preparedness tools so you can respond quickly and effectively if a tick bite occurs
The tools and resources below reflect these strategies and can help you reduce the risk of tick-borne illness.
Tick Bite Prevention Tools
These tools help reduce the risk of tick bites during outdoor activities and around the home.
Permethrin-Treated Materials (Insect Shield)
Permethrin-treated materials are designed to repel ticks, mosquitoes, and other biting insects. The repellent is bonded to the fabric during manufacturing and remains effective through many washes. Clothing, socks, hats, pet gear, and other outdoor items treated with permethrin can help reduce the likelihood of tick attachment during outdoor activities.
Why I recommend it:
Permethrin-treated fabrics are one of the most effective tools available for preventing tick bites, especially for people who spend time outdoors.
Use the discount code DRALEXISCHESNEY at checkout to receive 15% off your first purchase!
Explore permethrin-treated clothing and gear below.
Why I recommend it:
Permethrin-treated fabrics are one of the most effective tools available for preventing tick bites, especially for people who spend time outdoors.
Use the discount code DRALEXISCHESNEY at checkout to receive 15% off your first purchase!
Explore permethrin-treated clothing and gear below.
Send Clothing or Gear to Be Treated with Permethrin (Insect Shield Service)
If you already have outdoor clothing or gear you prefer to wear, Insect Shield offers a service that allows you to send items to be professionally treated with permethrin. The treatment bonds the repellent to the fabric so it remains effective through many washes, helping protect against ticks, mosquitoes, and other biting insects.
Items that can be treated include clothing, socks, hats, outdoor gear, and other fabrics commonly used during hiking, gardening, or outdoor work.
Why I recommend it:
This option allows people to add tick protection to clothing and gear they already own and are comfortable wearing outdoors.
Use the discount code DRALEXISCHESNEY at checkout to receive 15% off your first purchase!
Explore the permethrin treatment service below.
Items that can be treated include clothing, socks, hats, outdoor gear, and other fabrics commonly used during hiking, gardening, or outdoor work.
Why I recommend it:
This option allows people to add tick protection to clothing and gear they already own and are comfortable wearing outdoors.
Use the discount code DRALEXISCHESNEY at checkout to receive 15% off your first purchase!
Explore the permethrin treatment service below.
Permethrin-Treated Socks (Insect Shield)
Ticks often attach near the feet and lower legs after walking on or brushing against grass, leaves or vegetation, and then crawl upward on the body. For this reason, protecting the areas that first come into contact with the ground—such as shoes and socks—is especially important.
One practical strategy is to treat your own shoes with permethrin while wearing socks that are already permethrin-treated. Insect Shield offers socks with permethrin bonded directly to the fabric, allowing the repellent to remain effective through many washes.
Why I recommend it:
Because ticks typically attach near the feet and ankles before crawling upward, protecting socks and shoes can dramatically reduce exposure. Treating shoes with permethrin and wearing treated socks has been shown to reduce tick bites by roughly 70-fold in some studies.
Consider treating your sneakers and shoes with permethrin every 4–6 weeks while using commercially-treated socks for ongoing protection.
Use the discount code DRALEXISCHESNEY at checkout to receive 15% off your first purchase!
Explore permethrin-treated socks below.
One practical strategy is to treat your own shoes with permethrin while wearing socks that are already permethrin-treated. Insect Shield offers socks with permethrin bonded directly to the fabric, allowing the repellent to remain effective through many washes.
Why I recommend it:
Because ticks typically attach near the feet and ankles before crawling upward, protecting socks and shoes can dramatically reduce exposure. Treating shoes with permethrin and wearing treated socks has been shown to reduce tick bites by roughly 70-fold in some studies.
Consider treating your sneakers and shoes with permethrin every 4–6 weeks while using commercially-treated socks for ongoing protection.
Use the discount code DRALEXISCHESNEY at checkout to receive 15% off your first purchase!
Explore permethrin-treated socks below.
Cedar Oil Tick Repellent (Cedarcide)
Cedarwood oil–based repellents offer a plant-derived option for helping deter ticks during outdoor activities. Products made with cedar essential oil can be safely applied to skin to help reduce tick exposure while hiking, gardening, or spending time outside.
Essential oils have long been used for their natural ability to repel ticks. In a 2022 study, Juniperus ashei (Texas cedarwood oil) showed repellency against blacklegged (deer) tick nymphs that was comparable to DEET (both products must be applied every 1-2 hours).
Cedarcide products use cedar oil derived from natural sources and are designed for use on clothing, gear, and around the home.
Why I recommend it:
Cedarwood oil–based products provide a botanical option that is safe for your skin.
Explore cedarwood oil tick repellent options below.
Essential oils have long been used for their natural ability to repel ticks. In a 2022 study, Juniperus ashei (Texas cedarwood oil) showed repellency against blacklegged (deer) tick nymphs that was comparable to DEET (both products must be applied every 1-2 hours).
Cedarcide products use cedar oil derived from natural sources and are designed for use on clothing, gear, and around the home.
Why I recommend it:
Cedarwood oil–based products provide a botanical option that is safe for your skin.
Explore cedarwood oil tick repellent options below.
Tick Tubes for Yard Tick Control (Thermacell)
Tick tubes are designed to help reduce tick populations around the home by targeting mice, an important host for blacklegged (deer) ticks. The tubes contain cotton treated with permethrin. Mice collect the cotton for nesting material, which helps eliminate ticks that feed on them.
By interrupting this part of the tick life cycle, tick tubes can help reduce the number of ticks in the surrounding environment.
Developed at the Harvard University School of Public Health, research has shown a 93.6% reduction in exposure per hour to infected ticks in areas treated with tick tubes.
Why I recommend it:
Managing ticks around the home is an important part of prevention. Tick tubes target the primary host responsible for maintaining Lyme and other tick-borne disease-carrying tick populations.
Explore tick tube options below.
By interrupting this part of the tick life cycle, tick tubes can help reduce the number of ticks in the surrounding environment.
Developed at the Harvard University School of Public Health, research has shown a 93.6% reduction in exposure per hour to infected ticks in areas treated with tick tubes.
Why I recommend it:
Managing ticks around the home is an important part of prevention. Tick tubes target the primary host responsible for maintaining Lyme and other tick-borne disease-carrying tick populations.
Explore tick tube options below.
After a Tick Bite: First Aid Tools
Prompt and appropriate action after a tick bite can help reduce the risk of developing tick-borne illness. Removing the tick properly, monitoring for symptoms, and supporting the body’s response are important steps following exposure.
The tools below are ones I commonly recommend for responding to a tick bite and supporting early care.
The tools below are ones I commonly recommend for responding to a tick bite and supporting early care.
Tick Preparedness Kit
The Tick Preparedness Kit, created by Dr. Alexis Chesney, is a comprehensive first aid kit designed to help you respond quickly and effectively after a tick bite. Ticks can transmit Lyme disease and other tick-borne infections, and early action matters.
This kit was developed after years of clinical experience treating patients with tick bites and tick-borne illness. It brings together several tools used to support early response after a tick bite.
The Tick Preparedness Kit includes:
Why I created it:
After years of treating tick bites in clinical practice, I wanted patients and families to have a simple kit ready at home so they can act quickly if a tick bite occurs.
Watch a short overview of the Tick Preparedness Kit below.
👉 Watch the Tick Preparedness Kit video
Explore the Tick Preparedness Kit below.
This kit was developed after years of clinical experience treating patients with tick bites and tick-borne illness. It brings together several tools used to support early response after a tick bite.
The Tick Preparedness Kit includes:
- Deer Tick Bite Formula, an antimicrobial herbal tincture taken by mouth
- Homeopathic Ledum and Apis, traditionally used to support the body’s response to insect bites
- Andrographis tincture for topical application to the bite site
- O’Tom Tick Twister®, one of the most effective tools available for safe tick removal
- Printed instructions for what to do after a tick bite
- Small plastic bag for saving the tick for testing
Why I created it:
After years of treating tick bites in clinical practice, I wanted patients and families to have a simple kit ready at home so they can act quickly if a tick bite occurs.
Watch a short overview of the Tick Preparedness Kit below.
👉 Watch the Tick Preparedness Kit video
Explore the Tick Preparedness Kit below.
Deer Tick Bite Formula
Deer Tick Bite Formula was specifically crafted by Dr. Alexis Chesney for use after a blacklegged (deer) tick bite.
Ingredients:
Polygonum cuspidatum, Uncaria tomentosa, Cryptolepis sanguinolenta, Houttuynia cordata
Other ingredients:
Organic cane alcohol, water, glycerine
Suggested use:
After a tick bite, take 1 teaspoon in water 30 minutes before breakfast, lunch, and dinner for 30 days.
Why I recommend it:
In my clinical experience, early support following a tick bite can be helpful while monitoring for symptoms and seeking appropriate medical care when needed.
For more detailed guidance on prevention and post-bite care, see my book Preventing Lyme and Other Tick-Borne Diseases.
Explore Deer Tick Bite Formula below.
Ingredients:
Polygonum cuspidatum, Uncaria tomentosa, Cryptolepis sanguinolenta, Houttuynia cordata
Other ingredients:
Organic cane alcohol, water, glycerine
Suggested use:
After a tick bite, take 1 teaspoon in water 30 minutes before breakfast, lunch, and dinner for 30 days.
Why I recommend it:
In my clinical experience, early support following a tick bite can be helpful while monitoring for symptoms and seeking appropriate medical care when needed.
For more detailed guidance on prevention and post-bite care, see my book Preventing Lyme and Other Tick-Borne Diseases.
Explore Deer Tick Bite Formula below.
Tick Testing (TickReport)
If you remove a tick, you may wish to have it tested to determine whether it is carrying pathogens that cause Lyme disease or other tick-borne infections.
TickReport.com, a service from the University of Massachusetts, has been a trusted leader in tick testing since 2006. To submit a tick, place it in a small sealed bag and follow the instructions on the TickReport website for payment and mailing.
Why I recommend it:
Testing the tick can help determine whether and which pathogens the tick may be carrying. This information can guide decisions about whether further action may be warranted and what symptoms to monitor for based on the pathogens identified. It is important to note that even if a tick tests positive for a pathogen, this does not necessarily mean the infection was transmitted to the person.
Discount code: DRCHESNEY ($5 off testing)
If you develop symptoms after a tick bite, please contact your Lyme-literate health care practitioner for guidance or make an appointment with Dr. Chesney.
Explore tick testing through TickReport below.
Herbal Support for Tick-Borne Infections
In some cases, herbal formulas may be used to support individuals dealing with tick-borne infections such as Lyme disease or babesiosis. The formulas below were developed by Dr. Alexis Chesney based on botanical medicine described by herbalist Stephen Harrod Buhner, along with clinical experience and emerging research.
L-Plus Formula
L-Plus Formula was specifically crafted by Dr. Alexis Chesney to support individuals dealing with Lyme disease.
Ingredients:
Japanese Knotweed root, Cat’s Claw bark, Cryptolepis root, Cistus Leaf, Black Walnut hull, Baical Skullcap root
Other ingredients:
Organic cane alcohol, water, glycerine
Suggested use:
Take 1 teaspoon in water 30 minutes before breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Why I recommend it:
This formula combines herbs commonly used in botanical approaches to Lyme disease and reflects the herbal protocols described by Stephen Harrod Buhner along with my clinical experience. The herbs included in this formula have been widely discussed in botanical medicine approaches to Lyme disease.
Explore L-Plus Formula below.
Ingredients:
Japanese Knotweed root, Cat’s Claw bark, Cryptolepis root, Cistus Leaf, Black Walnut hull, Baical Skullcap root
Other ingredients:
Organic cane alcohol, water, glycerine
Suggested use:
Take 1 teaspoon in water 30 minutes before breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Why I recommend it:
This formula combines herbs commonly used in botanical approaches to Lyme disease and reflects the herbal protocols described by Stephen Harrod Buhner along with my clinical experience. The herbs included in this formula have been widely discussed in botanical medicine approaches to Lyme disease.
Explore L-Plus Formula below.
Bab-Plus Formula
Bab-Plus Formula was specifically crafted by Dr. Alexis Chesney to support individuals dealing with babesiosis.
Ingredients:
Cryptolepis root, Baical Skullcap root, Japanese Knotweed root, Sida leaf, Alchornea leaf, Bidens leaf & flower
Other ingredients:
Organic cane alcohol, water, glycerine
Suggested use:
Take 1 teaspoon in water 30 minutes before breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Why I recommend it:
This formula combines herbs commonly used in botanical approaches to babesiosis and reflects the herbal protocols described by Stephen Harrod Buhner along with my clinical experience. The herbs included in this formula have been widely discussed in botanical medicine approaches to babesiosis.
Explore Bab-Plus Formula below.
Ingredients:
Cryptolepis root, Baical Skullcap root, Japanese Knotweed root, Sida leaf, Alchornea leaf, Bidens leaf & flower
Other ingredients:
Organic cane alcohol, water, glycerine
Suggested use:
Take 1 teaspoon in water 30 minutes before breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Why I recommend it:
This formula combines herbs commonly used in botanical approaches to babesiosis and reflects the herbal protocols described by Stephen Harrod Buhner along with my clinical experience. The herbs included in this formula have been widely discussed in botanical medicine approaches to babesiosis.
Explore Bab-Plus Formula below.
Order Professional Supplements
Other herbal supports and many of the supplements I recommend in clinical care can be ordered through Dr. Alexis Chesney’s Fullscript Dispensary, which provides access to a large catalog of professional-grade nutraceuticals used by healthcare practitioners.
Fullscript supplements are third-party tested and shipped directly to you, and active clients receive a discount.
Learn more about Dr. Alexis Chesney’s Fullscript Dispensary
Education
Education is one of the most powerful tools for preventing tick-borne illness. Understanding how to identify ticks, recognize early symptoms, and respond appropriately after a tick bite can make a significant difference in reducing risk.
The resources below provide practical guidance on tick identification, prevention strategies, early response after a tick bite, symptoms to watch out for and treatment strategies.
The resources below provide practical guidance on tick identification, prevention strategies, early response after a tick bite, symptoms to watch out for and treatment strategies.
Preventing Lyme & Other Tick-Borne Diseases (Book)
Preventing Lyme & Other Tick-Borne Diseases is a practical, research-informed guide from Storey Publishing that empowers readers to reduce tick exposure and respond effectively to tick bites at a time when Lyme disease and other tick-borne infections are increasing across North America.
This essential handbook includes:
This book is designed for outdoor enthusiasts, families, clinicians, and anyone who wants to better understand tick-borne disease prevention, and acute Lyme and tick-borne disease diagnosis and treatment.
This essential handbook includes:
- How to identify tick species and the diseases they carry
- Proven strategies for reducing tick exposure through personal protection, landscaping, and post-bite care
- Herbal approaches that may support the body and complement conventional care
- Guidance on creating a tick bite preparedness kit
- Symptom checklists, diagnostic insights, and treatment considerations
- Full-color maps and pull-out identification cards for ticks and rashes
This book is designed for outdoor enthusiasts, families, clinicians, and anyone who wants to better understand tick-borne disease prevention, and acute Lyme and tick-borne disease diagnosis and treatment.
Preventing & Treating Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease (Online Course)
Preventing & Treating Lyme and Tick-Borne Diseases: Ticks from Around the World, Diseases They Carry, Prevention and Acute Treatments is a self-paced online course that provides a comprehensive and practical education on Lyme disease and other tick-borne infections from around the world.
While my book focuses on ticks and diseases found in North America, this course explores ticks globally and the wide range of infections they transmit, helping you better understand risk, prevention strategies, and early response no matter where exposure occurs.
In this course, you will:
This course is designed for individuals, families, outdoor enthusiasts, and healthcare professionals who want clear, actionable guidance grounded in real-world clinical experience.
Content is presented in an easy-to-follow format with video lessons and downloadable resources, so you can apply what you learn immediately.
While my book focuses on ticks and diseases found in North America, this course explores ticks globally and the wide range of infections they transmit, helping you better understand risk, prevention strategies, and early response no matter where exposure occurs.
In this course, you will:
- Learn about ticks from around the world and the diseases they transmit
- Discover evidence-informed strategies for preventing tick bites at home and outdoors
- Learn six clear steps to take after a tick bite, including what to monitor and when to seek care
- Recognize symptoms of tick-borne diseases worldwide, including early warning signs
- Understand how acute tick-borne diseases are treated and why early recognition matters
This course is designed for individuals, families, outdoor enthusiasts, and healthcare professionals who want clear, actionable guidance grounded in real-world clinical experience.
Content is presented in an easy-to-follow format with video lessons and downloadable resources, so you can apply what you learn immediately.
Tick ID Bookmarks
Tick ID Bookmarks provide a quick and practical reference for identifying North American tick species that carry diseases. These durable bookmarks are designed to be a simple visual guide for anyone spending time outdoors.
They can be kept in a book, backpack, or first aid kit, making them a convenient tool for hikers, gardeners, outdoor enthusiasts, families, classrooms, and educators teaching about tick awareness.
Why I recommend them:
Learning to recognize tick species is an important part of prevention. A quick visual reference can help increase awareness and encourage prompt action after a tick bite.
Explore Tick ID Bookmarks below.
They can be kept in a book, backpack, or first aid kit, making them a convenient tool for hikers, gardeners, outdoor enthusiasts, families, classrooms, and educators teaching about tick awareness.
Why I recommend them:
Learning to recognize tick species is an important part of prevention. A quick visual reference can help increase awareness and encourage prompt action after a tick bite.
Explore Tick ID Bookmarks below.
Medical Disclaimer
All material provided on this website is provided for informational or educational purposes only, and is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or qualified healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or symptoms. If you develop symptoms after a tick bite, seek appropriate medical guidance.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Disclosures
We engage in affiliate marketing whereby we receive funds through clicks to our affiliate programs through this website or we receive funds through the sale of goods or services on or through this website. This does not impact the cost to you or the research we put into the products we recommend. We may also accept advertising, sponsorships, or other forms of compensation from commercial partners. This disclosure is provided in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) guidelines regarding endorsements and testimonials in advertising, as well as any other legal requirements which may apply.
All material provided on this website is provided for informational or educational purposes only, and is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or qualified healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or symptoms. If you develop symptoms after a tick bite, seek appropriate medical guidance.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Disclosures
We engage in affiliate marketing whereby we receive funds through clicks to our affiliate programs through this website or we receive funds through the sale of goods or services on or through this website. This does not impact the cost to you or the research we put into the products we recommend. We may also accept advertising, sponsorships, or other forms of compensation from commercial partners. This disclosure is provided in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) guidelines regarding endorsements and testimonials in advertising, as well as any other legal requirements which may apply.