Natural Remedies For Mosquito Bites

The discomfort of mosquito bites is something most people can relate to, especially during warmer months when these pesky insects are most active.

The red, itchy welts they leave behind are not just a nuisance but can also disrupt sleep and other daily activities.

Published: July 13, 2023.

While over-the-counter remedies are available, many people prefer to use natural solutions to soothe the irritation caused by these bites.

Nature is abundant with remedies that can help alleviate itchiness, reduce swelling, and promote healing. From the soothing power of aloe vera to the anti-inflammatory properties of essential oils, there are numerous ways to find relief using simple ingredients that you may already have in your home.

Here are some natural remedies you can use to relieve the discomfort and itchiness caused by mosquito bites:

• Aloe Vera: Aloe Vera has a natural soothing effect and can reduce swelling and irritation. You can use fresh aloe vera from the plant by breaking off a piece and applying the gel directly onto the bite, or you can use store-bought aloe vera gel.
• Baking Soda & Water: Make a paste with baking soda and water and apply it to the bite. It can help to neutralize the pH and reduce itching.
• Honey: It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Applying a small drop to a mosquito bite can help prevent infection and speed up healing.
• Ice: Applying an ice pack or a cool, damp cloth to a bite can help reduce swelling and numb the area, reducing the urge to itch.
• Oatmeal: Oatmeal can help soothe skin irritation. You can make an oatmeal paste with water, or you can add oatmeal to a bath if you have multiple bites.
• Tea Bags: Used cold tea bags can help with inflammation and itching. The tannins in the tea help to draw fluid out of the bite.
• Essential Oils: Certain essential oils like tea tree, lavender, and witch hazel have anti-inflammatory properties and can soothe mosquito bites. However, you should dilute essential oils with carrier oil before applying them to the skin to avoid irritation.

Remember to keep the bite clean and try not to scratch it, even if it itches, to avoid the risk of infection. If the bite shows signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, pain, or pus) or if it doesn't start to improve after a few days, you should consult a healthcare professional.

Please note that while these remedies may help with the symptoms of a mosquito bite, they won't prevent bites in the first place.

Natural Mosquito Repellents

In addition to natural remedies for treating mosquito bites, there are also natural ways to repel these insects. Here are a few natural mosquito repellents:

• Citronella: Often used in candles and torches, citronella's strong smell can help repel mosquitoes.
• Lemon Eucalyptus Oil: This is recognized as an effective natural insect repellent, although it's not recommended for children under 3 years old.
• Lavender: Crushed lavender flowers produce a fragrance and oil that can repel mosquitoes.

• Peppermint: In its concentrated form, it can be used as a natural bug repellent.
• Garlic: Eating garlic or rubbing it on the skin can act as a deterrent, though it may not be socially appealing!
• Tea Tree Oil: Its strong scent can repel mosquitoes and other bugs.
• Neem Oil: Studies have shown that neem oil can be a great natural mosquito repellent.
• Geraniol: This plant-based alcohol is used in a variety of products to repel mosquitoes.

It's important to note that while these natural repellents can be effective, they often need to be applied more frequently than synthetic repellents. If you're in an area with a high risk of mosquito-borne diseases, a synthetic repellent may offer more reliable protection.

To protect yourself from mosquito bites even further, you may also wear long sleeves and pants and avoid being outside at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.