Update: Since this post was published last year,  Atlantick has concluded very successful efficacy studies at Acadia university.  They have started the process to get the tick spray registered with the PMRA, Canadian Government. Body spray is currently available online or at select retailers listed below. 

We are currently working on a piece of property which has involved many walks through the woods to see the latest developments, etc. My husband recently took our three kids down there for an evening walk to see everything and get some fresh air. After some hiking and tree climbing, they all came home relaxed and laughing, but then the freak out began. Everyone had ticks on them, which is fine, we have dealt with ticks before…but ticks on teenage girls…several of them…this was a new experience for us. 😉 There was some screeching, flailing, clothes quickly changed, frequent asks for “checks” and I dare say…near hysteria. LOL! Oh my…god bless teenage girls…and their parents. 😉

Dealing with ticks is a seasonal reality, most of us look at as an annoyance, but with Lyme Disease becoming one of the fastest growing infectious diseases in the world, and ticks a big contributor to the spreading of the disease, it’s time to start looking more seriously at ways to prevent and protect ourselves.

I think most of us know what sort of precautions we should be taking when we head into the woods…tuck our pant legs into our socks, wear closed-toed shoes, do a good check when you get home, shower within 2 hours of being out in the woods, etc…but what else can be done to prevent ticks from getting on us in the first place?

Which is exactly what Lisa Learning Ali started asking after the very personal experience of watching her 11-year-old son get diagnosed with Lyme Disease. After researching, talking to people and soon realizing the impact this disease is having on so many people here and across the country, and not being comfortable with putting deet or other chemicals on her children daily, Lisa began looking for a more natural solution.

Atlantick is a bite prevention spray developed by Lisa and produced in Mahone Bay with natural ingredients provided by the earth. A combination of Nova Scotia salt water, witch hazel, and oils, including essential oils which the The Centre for Disease Control lists as a natural repellent against ticks. Ticks are attracted to the scent of humans and animals which is why the use of essential oils is suggested, as it works to disguise it. Atlantick is currently available in three different scents, Rose Geranium, Lemongrass and Cedarwood. Besides taking preventative steps, you’ll also come away smelling pretty good!

The symptoms of Lyme Disease can range from mild to debilitating. It feels like here in Lunenburg County we almost all know someone who is suffering or who has been diagnosed with Lyme Disease. We all want to feel free to enjoy the outdoors and take advantage of all its natural beauty when we can. Using Atlantick when we head outside is another step in preventing ticks and protecting ourselves. *Even if using a spray you should still always do a good check when coming in from outside.

After realizing the need for this sort of natural product, doing many months of research and refining the recipe using the science listed on the CDC website, Lisa is happy to be able to offer Atlantick as a preventative measure. She wants to make sure everyone is aware of all the steps to take to prevent ticks, what to do if you get a tick on you and most importantly the potentially debilitating effects of Lyme Disease. Her main message in this personal journey continues to be one of prevention and protection.

I bought two bottles for my family to use, a large Rose Geranium…for the family/teenage girls…and a small bottle of Lemongrass for my husband to carry with him for his frequent trips into the woods. Atlantick can also be used for dogs and you can read all about the use of it for your pets here. I’ve long had bug spray and sunscreen on hand, and now I’m excited about having a local product like Atlantick to use so we can all continue to enjoy the outdoors…even the teenage girls. 😉

Atlantick is available in Mahone Bay at Tummy to Mummy, The Barn at  Gow’s Home Hardware, Bridgewater Pharmasave and select retailers. You can also order Atlantick online.

* This post is sponsored by Atlantick, but all opinions are my own.