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Termites & Orange Oil

Many homeowners look to natural remedies to deal with termites, and orange oil being one of the most common pairings. Orange oil, often found in household cleaners and used in some pest control products, is popular for its citrus scent and plant-based ingredients. But how effective is it against termites? Florida Pest Control explains what you need to know about orange oil.

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What is Orange Oil?

Orange oil is a natural extract derived from orange peels. It contains d-limonene compound, which is commonly used for its pest-repelling capabilities. As a natural ingredient, orange oil is biodegradable and safe to use around pets and people. As a result, many homeowners choose orange oil as a first step in the pest control process. 

The D-limonene compound dissolves termite eggs and their exoskeletons. These effects can be deadly to termites. Its natural citrus scent makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

Natural oil does require careful handling:

  • Flammability: Orange oil is highly flammable and may combust if rubbed into wood items. 
  • Species limitations: The oil will not impact subterranean termites and other pests that burrow into wet wood.
  • Possible irritation: The oil is not toxic to humans, but can still irritate upon contact with skin or the eyes. Overexposure to fumes may lead to nausea or lung irritation.

How Do Termites React to Orange Oil?

Orange oil’s active ingredient, d-limonene, is a chemical compound that breaks down the waxy coating on a termite’s exoskeleton. This can cause the pest to lose moisture quickly and die. However, that process only works when the oil is applied directly to the insect or colony.

Drywood termites are the most likely to be affected. These termites live inside the wood they eat, so if their galleries are exposed during construction or repair, orange oil termite control may be applied straight into those spaces. In these cases, termites can be killed on contact.

Nevertheless, there are limits to its value. Subterranean termites, which build colonies underground, may never come into contact with the oil unless their tunnels are opened. 

Some termites may detect d-limonene and avoid treated areas altogether. While the oil does not kill them in these cases, it may discourage them from spreading in certain places. This repellent effect can be helpful, but it’s not a long-term solution.

Natural Termite Control

Termites are notoriously difficult to remove from your property, especially when the colony is established. Having a professional termite removal service is  the best way to ensure termites are safely and reliably exterminated. For years, Florida Pest Control has offered a full range of termite control services to local home and business owners in Florida. 

Get in touch with our team today to learn more about our pest control solutions, such as our innovative termite baiting treatment!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Orange Oil?

Orange oil termite treatment uses a natural extract made from orange peels. Its active ingredient, d-limonene, gives it a strong citrus smell and is known for repelling certain pests. Because it’s plant-based and biodegradable, many homeowners consider it a cleaner alternative to synthetic products. Still, orange oil should be used carefully; it’s flammable and can cause skin or eye irritation if touched.

Orange oil  uses d-limonene to break down a termite’s outer shell, leading to dehydration and death. It must be applied directly to the insects or their colony to work. It may also help repel termites from treated areas, but won’t reach hidden or underground colonies.

Orange oil is not a definitive solution. While it can kill termites on contact, it doesn’t reach deeply hidden or large colonies. For long-term protection and to fully address the problem, many homeowners should use professional pest control services.