Natural Bug Bite Relief

What to Do When the Bugs Bite

When it comes to enjoying the great outdoors, mosquito bites seem to be an unavoidable evil, especially in warm, humid weather. While bees and wasps inject venom when they sting, mosquitoes inject a proboscis, which looks like a tiny straw, to suck up tiny amounts of your blood and release anti-clotting agents. The immune system reacts by releasing histamine, which creates a small, itchy bump. In other words, what you know to be a mosquito bite is not the bite itself, but your body’s allergic reaction to substances that bite leaves behind.

While home cures for mosquito bites allow you to avoid toxic pesticides, mosquito bites can be risky, too. Children are more susceptible to mosquito bites than adults, and while most bites are harmless, some people have a severe, even life-threatening allergic reaction.

If you’re in or planning to travel to a tropical area, it’s important to know that mosquito bites can carry diseases like Zika, dengue, or chikungunya. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on preventive measures you can take before traveling.

The best way to prevent mosquito bites naturally is to avoid the bugs themselves and know your own risk. Mosquitos seem to be especially attracted to larger people and pregnant women. They are also attracted to sweet-smelling lotions and perfumes. Some mosquito breeds prefer dawn and dusk, while others love the hottest times of the day, so it makes sense to stay indoors if possible. Steer clear of standing water, where mosquitos breed and swarm, and cover up and wear light-colored long sleeves and pants when you’re near an infested area. Consider putting mosquito netting around beds.

Summer, we love you, but all of these insect bites are really killing our mood. Sure, bug repellents can scare off the pests, but those don’t guarantee around-the-clock protection. So the next time you stumble upon a bug bite, don’t be so quick to make a beeline for the closest drugstore. Instead, try out one of these amazing alternatives to soothe your pain first. Experts say they might be just as effective as any over-the-counter medicine.Essential Oils
Tea tree, lavender, and coconut oils all have properties that can alleviate itching, pain, and swelling.  In particular, tea tree oil is also antibacterial, which can help prevent infection from incessant scratching. Oils from different brands may be more acidic than others, so make sure you ask the store owner or a dermatologist about an oil’s concentration before you apply it directly to your skin. If the oil is too strong, you can dilute it with water.

 Honey
If you don’t mind a bit of stickiness, honey is an anti-inflammatory and can make the itching a little less tempting.

 

Milk and Water
Mix equal parts skim milk and water, dip a thin cloth (like handkerchief or an old T-shirt) into the concoction, and dab your skin.

Toothpaste
“Most toothpastes have a mint or peppermint flavor, and the menthol ingredient creates a cooling sensation on your skin, Your brain picks up on this feeling much quicker than the itching sensation. Plus, the intrinsic astringency of toothpaste helps reduce swelling.

Basil
This spice isn’t just limited to the kitchen. Basil leaves contain chemicals such as camphor, which creates a cool feeling, similar to menthol in toothpaste. Crush a few leaves and apply the bits directly to your bumps.

Ice
A single ice cube can constrict the blood vessels and decrease the body’s natural histamine release. Translation: less itching.

Tea Bags
It’s true! Cool tea bags draw fluid out of a bite to reduce itching and swelling.

Vinegar
This is a great home remedy to block itching because of its small acidic levels. Dab it onto individual spots or, if your body’s been a buffet for bugs, you can add two to three cups to warm water and soak in a tub. Apple cider vinegar may work even better.

It;s always good to be as prepared as possible to make your trip more enjoyable,

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