Reduce a mosquito bite's swelling and itch with natural remedies.
As a localized allergic reaction to an insect's saliva, a mosquito bite represents more than just an annoyance. Excessive scratching can lead to further skin irritation; some individuals are prone to extreme reactions that may include rashes or difficulty breathing. For those who wish to avoid the expense and possible risk of chemical-based medicines, natural and home-based treatments are plentiful and effective.
Quick Steps
Soap and water is your first line of natural defense against a mosquito bite. Because the saliva from the insect causes the itchy sensation, the sooner you cleanse the bite area, the less likely an itch will occur. Rubbing the bar of soap directly on the bite is another alternative; doing so can sometimes stop the itch immediately.
In the Kitchen
The most natural and inexpensive treatment for mosquito bites sits right in your freezer. Ice packs reduce swelling and numb the bite area, reducing the itchy feeling at its source. Over in the pantry, combine baking soda and a little vinegar into a paste. When applied, it dries into a protective seal that discourages scratching and helps the skin heal more effectively. A saltwater mixture is a natural way to draw out bacteria; the enzymes in milk also work against insect bites. Apply both of these treatments directly to the skin until the itching sensation subsides.
In the Bathroom
The medicine chest contains an assortment of home remedies to treat mosquito bites. Toothpaste, mouthwash, rubbing alcohol, aspirin and tea-soaked cotton balls can all reduce swelling and lessen the symptoms of the bite. If a swarm of bites is your problem, a cold bath, augmented with a few drops of lavender oil, goes a long way toward offering relief. For severe itching and swelling, an oatmeal bath may be in order.
Essential Oils
The same lavender oil that soothes in a cold bath works well on its own to treat mosquito bites when applied directly to the affected area. Natural Health Ezine recommends both lavender and a component of that oil, called linalool. Tea tree oil, witch hazel and cedar oil also make the list of recommended natural cures. Aloe vera is a well-known natural treatment for a variety of skin irritations, including sunburn, rash and insect bites.
Repelling Mosquitoes
You may also incorporate natural insect repellents that can save you the step of bite treatments. In his self-named natural wellness website, Dr. David Williams suggests doses of garlic ("if you can tolerate the smell," he adds) which, when ingested, permeates the skin and discourages mosquitoes from targeting you. The Natural Holistic Health website recommends a solution of water and very diluted bleach, which it says has the benefit of "keeping mosquitoes away without sticky, smelly sprays."
Tags: mosquito bite, mosquito bites, bite area, cold bath, insect bites