If you live in an area plagued with mosquitoes, you will be interested in knowing a natural remedy or two for mosquito bites so you can ease the itch quickly. Fortunately, there are several ways to treat bites, so if one remedy doesn't seem to quite do the trick you'll have plenty of others to choose from.
Some Simple Remedies to Try
- Make a paste of one part water and three parts baking soda. Apply it to the bite to reduce itching.
- Applying ice or a cold compress can reduce swelling as well as itching.
- Toothpaste can be applied to the bite to reduce itching.
- Some people rub soap or deodorant on the bite to stop the itch.
Herbal Remedies
There are some herbs that are helpful to reduce itching, but sometimes side effects can occur so they should be used with a doctor's guidance.
Lemon Balm: Traditionally, crushed lemon balm leaves were applied to insect bites to reduce itching and swelling because lemon balm is a natural antihistamine. You can also dab on some lemon balm essential oil.
Stinging Nettles: The juice from crushed stinging nettles is an anti-inflammatory that reduces itching and swelling. A tea of nettles can be made and used as a wash for itchy mosquito bites. Pour a cup of boiling water over a teaspoon of dried nettles leaves or four ounces of fresh leaves. Allow the tea to steep until cool and dab the liquid on the bites.
Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil can also be dabbed directly on insect bites. Apply a drop or two as needed every two hours or so.
Calendula: Calendula cream can relieve itching and irritation while also providing antiseptic benefits. You can make your own or purchase a ready-made cream.
Plantain: Plantain is considered a weed in most landscapes but it is an effective remedy for mosquito bites. The simplest way to use it is just to chew up a leaf and spit it onto the bite.
More Interesting Remedies
According to TipNut.com, there are many other remedies to ease the itch of mosquito bites. Some of their recommendations include:
- Mouthwash
- Vinegar
- Honey
- Ammonia
- Epsom salt and water
- Witch hazel
- Banana peel
Why a Natural Remedy for Mosquito Bites
So why should you try a natural remedy for mosquito bites? There may be several reasons. You may be against the use of any type of chemicals on your body. This may be because of philosophical beliefs or due to a sensitivity to chemicals.
Another reason could be that you just don't have anything else on hand. If you're out hiking or on a picnic, you may not have thought about preparing for an onslaught of mosquitoes. So think how relieved you'll be when you remember that rubbing the bites with the inside of a banana peel, which you have with you for lunch, can quickly and naturally relieve the itch.
See What Works for You
With so many natural remedies for mosquito bites, you should have plenty of things to try during mosquito season. Experiment with the ones that catch your interest and see what works best for you and your family this summer.
