Mosquito bites can be itchy, irritating and sometimes painful, there are many over-the-counter treatments for mosquito bites but if you’d prefer to go for a more natural option or simply don’t have anything with you when a mosquito bite occurs, then these DIY remedies for mosquito bites are perfect for you.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal can help reduce itching and swelling of a mosquito bite, simply put equal parts oatmeal and water into a bowl and mix until it forms a paste. Put some of the paste onto a washcloth and hold it on the affected area for about 10 minutes before wiping the area until clean.
If mosquito bites are severe or you have multiple all over your body, then try putting a cup of oatmeal in a warm bath and sit in it for around 20 minutes, periodically taking a handful of the clumped oatmeal and applying it to the affected areas of skin.
Crushed Ice
Ice is a great way for treating irritation and inflammation by helping to numb the skin for short periods of time. If using ice, ensure that you don’t leave it directly on your skin for more than 5 minutes, this can cause damage to the skin which won’t help with the healing process of the bite at all. Putting some sort of barrier, such as a washcloth or napkin between the ice and your skin will allow you to leave it on for longer periods of time.
Honey
Honey is commonly used to help other health-related issues such as sore throats and bruises. Putting a small drop can help reduce inflammation as well as acting as an antibacterial substance. It may also deter you from itching as itching skin with honey on it can leave you in a sticky, messy situation.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has been a tried and tested remedy for many different types of conditions, such as minor wounds and infections, it possesses many anti-inflammatory benefits and due to this can also be used to help treat bug bites. Either apply the gel straight from inside of the plant or buy an over-the-counter natural aloe vera gel, whichever is easier and more accessible to you at the time. After applying aloe vera onto the affected area, let it dry and reapply if needed.
Baking Soda
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is an effective use for many skin irritating conditions. Commonly used to help treat children with chicken pox, baking soda holds properties that can also help relieve mosquito bites. Simply make a paste by mixing baking soda with water and apply it to the bite for 10 minutes, then wash it away. If there are many bites or the problem is severe, then a small amount of baking powder can be put in a warm bath.
Onion
A very common vegetable to have in the home is onion, which can surprisingly be used to help treat mosquito bites. The juices that leak out of onions, which often make people cry, can be put on bites to help reduce sting, itching and irritation. Applying a slice of onion directly on a bite can significantly reduce your risk of infection due to the natural anti-fungal properties that are found within it.
