Some of our happiest memories probably surround the warmer weather. It just seems as if there is so much to do outdoors that we are constantly having fun. Then again, when the summer season strikes, it also means that we are right in the middle of mosquito season. As it continues to ramp up through the end of the summer months, we want to do what we can to keep them away. Unfortunately, bug sprays are not always going to do the job and in some cases, they may actually be counterproductive. Regardless of how much you spray, those little bloodsuckers are going to get through to you somehow.
When a mosquito bites you, it is a very annoying feeling, to say the least. It seems as if we just can’t stop scratching the area because of the way our body responds. You may also feel the mosquito biting on occasion and that can send you into a scratching frenzy. If you are tired of the mosquito bites and want to do something about it, it’s time to try these home remedies. You will be amazed at how well they work.
1. Hot spoons
This is well worth a try and it works very quickly. Put a regular teaspoon under warm water to heat it up. Place that warm spoon directly on the bite. That’s it, it really is that simple.
You should be cautious that the water is not too warm because you don’t want to burn yourself in the process.
This works because the warm metal breaks down the proteins from the mosquito that make you itch. The bump exists but the itchiness is gone.
2. Teabags
Tea is excellent for removing toxins from the body. Placing a cool, used teabag directly on the bug bite will help pull the toxins out from the area.
3. Baking soda
This is perhaps one of the best home remedy tools you have at your disposal. Just put a few drops of water into some baking soda, make it into a paste and apply it to the area. It balances the pH in the skin so it reduces or eliminates the itching.
4. Scotch tape
This is a method that many people use. As soon as they feel the bite, they cover it with a strip of scotch tape. Some people feel as if it is a distraction that keeps you from itching.
According to a doctor from Thomas Jefferson University, there is a better way to approach it. Apply a Band-Aid tightly to the area but only do it for a day.
5. Honey
The antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of honey make it excellent for mosquito bites. Not only does it reduce the inflammation and itchiness, it helps them to heal.
6. Oatmeal bath
When you come inside and find that you are covered in mosquito bites, take an oatmeal bath. Add some oatmeal to the warm bath and it will give you fast relief.
7. Aloe vera
You can apply aloe vera gel to everything from a sunburn to a mosquito bite to stop the itching. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help to sooth the area.
8. Garlic
Mince some garlic and dilute it with coconut oil. Don’t put full strength garlic directly on the skin because it can worsen the inflammation. The antiviral properties of the garlic combined with the soothing properties of the coconut oil will work wonders.
9. Basal
Make your own basil oil by boiling 2 cups of water and 1/2 ounce of dried basil leaves. After the mixture cools, apply it with a washcloth to the bites. You can also rub a basil leaf directly on the area.
10. Ice
Apply ice to the area to reduce the blood flow and stop the itching. Don’t do it too long or you could damage your skin.