Bug bites are often more annoying than dangerous. They can itch and/or they may be painful!.
Fortunately, there are some home remedies for bug bites that are relatively easy to obtain and apply.
Here are just a few to try the next time you get bitten.
Aloe Vera Gel
This comes from the Aloe Vera plant. I have one growing on my back porch that I use all the time! It's very helpful with sunburn!
This gel soothes inflamed skin and may serve as a moisturizer as well. In addition, Aloe Vera extract has antibacterial properties which may help keep insect bites from becoming infected.
To Apply:
Simply dab some gel on the bite site. Either by breaking off a piece from a plant, the gel is inside, or directly from a store bought container.
Aloe Vera plants are toxic for your pets, so be careful if you opt to grow one.
Basil
Basil, chopped fine, can be rubbed on mosquito bites to reduce itchiness. You can keep some available as a rub by combining a half-ounce of Basil with two cups of hot water.
To Apply:
Let the mixture sit until cool, then apply to bites.
Chamomile
Chamomile is a tea also often used to treat ailments, such as bug bites. The tea reduces inflammation and irritation and may speed healing, as well.
To Apply:
Steep a tea bag in cold water for 30 minutes, then apply the tea bag directly to the affected site. You can also plant chamomile in your yard to make tea and to use for aromatherapy if you so choose.
Essential Oils
There are a variety of oils also used in home remedies for bug bites. Lavender oil, may relieve the pain from spider bites and bee stings. Mint oil has cooling properties and may also keep insects at bay. These oils are very useful for painful fire ant bites.
To Apply:
These oils are usually not applied directly to your skin, but instead mixed into sprays or balms, or used in baths.
Here are a few other items you may find around your home
Honey
Honey is an anti-inflammatory which also has antibacterial properties. It also can be a used as a home remedy for bug bites.
To Apply:
Apply a small amount on the sting or bite location to help reduce redness, swelling and itching. Use it indoors so so as not to attract more insects.
Ice
Ice has long been used a relief from painful insect bites. Ice will numb skin, reduce inflammation as well as provide both short and long term relief.
To Apply:
Avoid applying ice directly to the skin or leave an ice pack on for an extended period time. Damage to your skin may occur. Wrap the ice in a towel, hand cloth or paper towel and press on the affected area.
Lemon or Lime Juice
Lemon or lime juice applied to ant bites may reduce pain and discomfort cause by the bite. These juices may also work sating the itch of mosquito bites.
To Apply:
Avoid applying lemon or lime juice to broken skin cause by scratching the bite or it will sting. Remain out of the sun after you apply the juices as it may lead to sunburn.
Oatmeal
For many years, Oatmeal baths have been a home remedy to sooth itchy skin that often results from bug bites.
To Apply:
If, for what ever reason, you happen to be covered in bites from mosquitoes, flies or ants, pour a cup of oatmeal into a tub of water, and soak in the tub for a half hour or so. Combine oatmeal and water to make a paste, and apply the paste to individual bites or stings.
Onion
Onions and their juices, have been known to help reduce pain and irritation related to some bug bites. In addition, Onions contain antifungal properties, which may reduce the risk of infection from a bite.
To Apply:
Cut a slice and apply it directly to the affected area for several minutes. Wash the area afterward with soap and warm water.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel contains tannoids, which ( are a class of astringent, polyphenolic biomolecules that bind to and precipitate proteins and various other organic compounds including amino acids and alkaloids - Wikipedia) which act as an astringent when applied directly to skin.
Astringents can cleanse skin irritants, reduce inflammation and has anti-bacterial benefits making them useful when applied to insect bites. Witch hazel can be found in grocery stores and pharmacies as well.
To Apply:
Pour the Witch hazel on a cotton ball and pat the bite or affected area. Let dry and reapply as needed.
I hope you find some or all of these home remedies useful in your daily lives when you are faced with an insect bite or sting.
Remember: The Panama City Realty Group and Jennifer Mackay Sells Homes, Condos and Commercial properties in Panama City, Florida
When you want your Condominium, House, Land or Commercial property or business sold in Panama City or Panama City Beach contact Jennifer today!. Directly: (850 ) 774-6582.
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