How to prepare a wormwood infusion for fleas?

How to prepare a wormwood infusion for fleas? - briefly

Steep 1–2 g dried wormwood leaves in 200 ml boiling water for 10–15 minutes, let cool, strain, and spray the filtered infusion onto the animal’s coat, avoiding eyes and open wounds. Use this treatment once daily for three days, then repeat weekly as needed.

How to prepare a wormwood infusion for fleas? - in detail

Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium) contains compounds that repel and kill fleas. Follow these precise steps to create an effective infusion for topical application on pets or to treat infested environments.

1. Gather materials

   • Dried wormwood leaves, 30 g (about 1 oz)
   • Distilled water, 1 L (4 cups)
   • Stainless‑steel pot with lid
   • Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth
   • Dark glass bottle for storage

2. Prepare the herb

   • Break the dried leaves into small pieces to increase surface area.
   • Do not crush to powder; coarse fragments release essential oils more evenly.

3. Extract the active constituents

   • Add the herb to the pot, pour in the water, and bring to a gentle boil.
   • Reduce heat to a low simmer; maintain a temperature of 90‑95 °C.
   • Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.

4. Cool and filter

   • Remove the pot from heat; cover and let the mixture stand for 10 minutes to allow further extraction.
   • Pour through a fine mesh or cheesecloth into a clean container, pressing the herb to extract remaining liquid.

5. Preserve the infusion

   • Transfer the strained liquid into a dark glass bottle.
   • Store in a refrigerator; potency remains for up to 14 days.

6. Application guidelines

   • For a dog or cat: dilute the infusion 1:4 with plain water (e.g., 250 ml infusion + 750 ml water).
   • Apply the diluted solution to the animal’s coat using a spray bottle, avoiding eyes, nose, and open wounds.
   • For bedding or indoor surfaces: spray undiluted infusion directly onto carpets, rugs, and pet bedding; allow to air‑dry.

7. Safety precautions

   • Conduct a patch test on a small skin area before full application; observe for irritation over 15 minutes.
   • Do not use on pregnant or nursing animals without veterinary consultation.
   • Keep the preparation out of reach of children.

By adhering to these instructions, the wormwood brew delivers a concentrated, natural flea deterrent that can be incorporated into regular grooming routines and environmental treatments. Regular reapplication—every 3–4 days—maintains efficacy throughout the flea life cycle.