Dealing with bug bites can be a challenge to many of us. Some of the remedies available do not provide foolproof treatment while some have bad side effects.
In case you are bitten by an insect and don’t know what to do, the following are 7 nontoxic treatments that can help:
1. Soap and water
The first thing you are supposed to do is to clean the affected area carefully using soap and water as quickly as possible. This is because broken skin can easily cause infections.
However, you should be trying to consult your doctor especially if you have sensitive skin. This remedy works for many people but some might experience problems with it. For example, if the bug bite results in an allergic reaction or the pain worsen, the best thing to do is seek medical attention.
2. Ice
Ice often provides instant and temporary relief for insect bites or stings. Cold temperatures have the ability to reduce the swelling as well as numb the skin. Place a towel-wrapped with ice or cold pack to the affected area for several minutes.
3. Tea Tree Oil
This is also a great way of dealing with bug bites. You can use a few drops of tea tree oil to soothe a mosquito bite or wasp sting to avoid harmful scratching. However, it is important to first check with a dermatologist to ensure that the brand you have is not too strong for your skin. Tea tree oil has got anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties besides its sweet smell.
4. Teabags
Tea has been used as a home remedy for many years. It is known for healing wounds and swellings caused by stings and bites. Dip one tea bag in boiling water and allow it to cool in the refrigerator and then hold the tea bag on the affected area for about 10 to 15 minutes. This will help in drawing out the excess fluid and reduce swelling. Green tea is widely known to reduce inflammation and itching.
5. Milk
If you are a breastfeeding mom, rubbing some of that precious liquid on the affected area can go a long way in stopping the itching of a bug bite. Breast milk is naturally known to be anti-inflammatory and soothing.
A study carried out in 2013 revealed that breast milk was as effective as hydrocortisone ointments for infants.
6. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is one of the best home remedies that has been used for centuries. If you are stung or bitten by an insect, just split open one leaf or purchase a topical gel from a pharmacy and rub it on to the affected area. This will help in stopping the itching, swelling, and redness. Aloe Vera is known for promoting skin healing as well as calming infections.
7. Basil
Basil is another great plat that can be used to combat bug bites. The herb has chemical compounds such as camphor that are responsible for creating a cool sensation and offer a lot of relief. Just crush a few of its leaves to produce the oil and apply it to the bite. Besides that, Basil is also known as a great mosquito repellant.
