16 Home Remedies for Itchy Mosquito Bites
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Mosquito bites are a common summertime displeasure. Their bites cause itchy red scars that are capable of ruining outdoor enjoyment. Some bites could also lead to allergies and serious health hazards. Using anti-itch items is one way to prevent this pesky issue.
Although commercial anti-itch products exist, many people seek to utilize natural, home-based solutions to soothe this discomfort. Here is a list of 16 home remedies for mosquito bites, taken simply from your kitchen.
1. Crushed Ice
Crushed ice is a simple and easy home remedy for mosquito bites. It numbs the bitten area and reduces itching and swelling. The coldness of ice narrows blood vessels, minimizing the transmission of itch-influencing signals to the brain.
By cooling the bitten area it aids in slowing down histamine release, which activates itching. Moreover, the blood flow is minimized to the affected area which eventually decreases inflammation and any redness to the skin.
To get the desired result, you just have to grab a handful of crushed ice in a clean cloth or plastic bag and apply it directly to the affected area for at least 10 minutes.
2. Oatmeal
Another fruitful home remedy for mosquito bites is oatmeal which offers various benefits in calming and healing the affected skin. The vitamin E and ferulic acid in oatmeal function by decreasing inflammation and promoting skin repair.
Avenalumins compound in oatmeal helps calm mosquito bites by reducing redness, swelling, and irritation. Also, oatmeal is a natural moisturizer which means it preserves the moisture in the skin after the bite.
To use oatmeal as a preventive aid, first, create a brew of oatmeal paste by mixing it in water and then apply the paste directly to the bitten area. Allow the paste to be left for around 10-15 minutes and gently wash with cool water. You may reapply as needed for your relief.
3. Basil
Basil contains compounds like eugenol, linalool, and citronellol that have anti-inflammatory and pain-easing properties. This makes this herb quite effective for itchy mosquito bite relief.
Above-listed compounds aid in relieving the swelling that results after a mosquito bite. By desensitizing the skin and reducing the reaction to the mosquito's saliva, basil acts as a savior for the mosquito itch.
To use it as a remedy, you need to compress fresh basil leaves and apply the paste directly to the mosquito bite for immediate relief. Allow the paste to be left for around 10-15 minutes and wash it away with cool and fresh water.
4. Vinegar
Another popular home remedy for mosquito bites, vinegar helps calm itching, minimize swelling, and protect against infection. The acidity content of vinegar aids in counterbalancing the skin's pH, providing relaxation from itching.
Vinegar’s bactericide properties can help clean the bite area and lower the chance of infection, especially if you've scratched it. Furthermore, the light anti-inflammatory properties of vinegar can reduce redness and swelling around the bite area providing a faster recovery.
To obtain effective treatment, apply the vinegar by gently dabbing on the bitten area by soaking it in cotton or a clean cloth. Let it dry on your skin for a few minutes and wash it off if the smell is too strong or once it is fully dried. You can repeat this several times to relieve itching.
5. Heat
Applying heat to the affected area can help denature proteins present in the mosquito's saliva. These protein components are responsible for the itch and irritation.
Heating the affected area also helps to increase blood flow hence speeding up the healing process. As a result, you'll feel the soothing effect due to the warmth.
To use heat as a remedy apply a warm compress or heated spoon to the bite for about 10-20 seconds. Make sure that the temperature is tolerable to avoid burns. You can alternatively use a hairdryer set to a warm setting for relief.
6. Baking Soda
Due to its well-known alkaline nature, baking soda helps to neutralize the skin's pH and provides solace from itching and irritation caused by mosquito bites. The fine texture of baking soda aids in calming the bite area which offers relief from the intense urge to scratch.
Baking soda provides speedy recovery to the skin by calming the inflamed skin which minimizes swelling and redness.
To obtain effective results you can make a thick paste by mixing baking soda with water and applying it directly to the bitten area. Gently wash it off with fresh water after leaving it for 15 minutes and redo it as per your need.
7. Honey
A fantastic natural antidote for mosquito bites, the benefits of honey are abundant due to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and calming properties. It helps to lower swelling and redness of the bitten skin.
The sticky texture of honey forms a barrier on the skin, which can minimize irritation and restrict further scratching. The natural antitoxin agents of honey can prevent infections especially if you have scratched the bite area. Furthermore, the nutrients and antioxidant content of honey help in the reconstruction of infected tissue and nourish the skin.
You can use a clean finger or a small cotton piece to apply a small portion of honey directly to the bitten area. Wash the area with fresh water after 10-15 minutes of applied time. You may reapply the honey as needed to calm itching and speed up healing.
8. Lemon Balm
A herb in the mint family, lemon balm is an excellent natural remedy for mosquito bites. It contains potent compounds like clove oil, rosemary acid, and tannic acid that can calm the swollen skin and minimize redness around the bite.
Also, the cooling minty effect of lemon balm generates instant relief from itching and aids in prohibiting the urge to scratch. The natural antimicrobial qualities can prevent infections in the bite area, especially if the skin has been scratched.
To use it for treatment, take a few fresh lemon balm leaves and apply them to the bitten area by crushing them to release the essential oils. Once the oils are left for around 15 minutes on the skin, wash off the leaf's remains with fresh water.
9. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera helps decrease itching and swelling from mosquito bites because it contains curing compounds like acemannan. Moreover, its natural gel forms a protective obstruction over the skin which helps prevent further irritation and allows the skin to heal faster.
Rich in vitamins and minerals, aloe vera supports skin regeneration and its anti-inflammatory properties minimize redness around the bite.
For its optimal usage cut a fresh leaf of it and take out the gelly content with the help of a spoon. Then apply the gel directly to the bitten area and lightly rub until absorbed. Repeat as needed throughout the day to relieve itchiness.
10. Arnica
Arnica is a popular herbal remedy that can effectively ease discomfort from mosquito bites. The potent compound content of arnica aids in minimizing inflammation around the bite area.
Furthermore, arnica activates circulation, which aids in the recovery process of the skin. The natural antimicrobial properties of arnica can help prevent infection if the skin is broken.
It is also rich in palliative properties that can provide relief from the pain linked with mosquito bites.
For optimal results apply a small amount of arnica gel and lightly rub it into the bitten area until it is absorbed. You can reapply it every few hours if the itchiness persists by consulting your medicine provider.
11. Chamomile Tea
Another tranquilizing remedy for mosquito bites is chamomile tea which minimizes inflammation and promotes healing of the skin. The apigenin content of this tea being a natural anti-allergen helps in calming the itching commotion caused by mosquito bites.
The soothing benefits of chamomile tea help deliver instant repose and comfort to irritated skin caused by mosquito bites. Also, the anti-inflammatory properties of this tea minimize the redness and swelling around the bitten area.
To apply it as a curative begin by preparing chamomile tea and allow it to cool to room temperature. Dip a clean cloth or cotton piece into a cooled tea and rub it lightly on the bitten area. Allow it to soak for 10-15 minutes on the affected area and you may even redo it several times a day as needed for easing relief.
12. Onion
Onion is an effectual and natural remedy for mosquito bites which aids in minimizing itching, and swelling, and also preventing the risk of infection. The anti-inflammatory compounds of onions help reduce redness and inflammation around the bite.
Onions also contain natural fumigant qualities that can prohibit infections, if the skin has been scratched. The presence of natural vitamins and antioxidants provides additional support in the healing process and improves skin health.
Also, the natural antihistamine content of onion called meletin helps to minimize the redness and swelling around the bite.
To utilize it as a remedy take a fresh onion and cut a thin slice of it. Place the onion slice directly onto the bitten area and leave it for about 10-15 minutes. Then wash the area with fresh water to remove any remains.
13. Garlic
Garlic is a strong natural antidote for mosquito bites that helps minimize discomfort and pain. The presence of compounds like allicin in garlic bears anti-inflammatory effects which can calm itching and irritation.
Also, it aids in minimizing swelling and redness around the bitten area due to its anti-inflammatory effects. Moreover, the natural germicide properties can prohibit infections if the skin has been scratched.
The light pain-relieving effects of garlic aid in easing discomfort generated from the bite.
To use it as a natural aid take a fresh garlic clove, crush it slightly to release its juices, and rub it directly onto the bitten area. Allow it to precipitate for 5-10 minutes and wash the area afterward with fresh water to remove any residue.
14. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a rich natural antidote for mosquito bites which can lower itching, inflammation, and irritation produced from the bites. It acts as an astringent which can aid in calming the itching and provide quick relief. In addition to that, the cooling effect of witch hazel can provide calming relief to irritated skin.
Its potent natural germicide compounds can prohibit infections if the bite has been scratched. The anti-inflammatory properties of this tea aid in minimizing redness and swelling around the bitten area, providing a speedy recovery.
For remedy measures choose a quality witch hazel extract and dip a cotton ball or clean piece of cloth in the extract. Gently rub the soaked cotton onto the bitten area and let it air dry on the skin. You can reapply as needed throughout the day for ongoing relief.
15. Peppermint Oil
A refreshing and productive natural remedy, peppermint oil is beneficial for soothing mosquito bite discomfort. The menthol in this oil generates a cooling and energizing effect which removes itching and irritation caused by mosquito bites.
This oil has natural germ-killing properties that help prevent infection if the bite has been scratched. Not only that, the natural anti-inflammatory properties can aid in minimizing redness and swelling around the bite area which eventually offers rapid recovery.
To use it for relief mix a few drops of peppermint oil with warm water in the bowl. Steep a clean piece of cloth in the bowl and wring it out. Gently rub the bitten area by applying mixture infused cloth for around 10-15 minutes.
16. Thyme
Thyme plants are also one of the effective natural remedies for mosquito bites. The thymol content of this plant possesses antihistamine effects that ease itching and irritation caused by mosquito bites.
In addition to that the rich anti-inflammatory properties aid in minimizing redness and swelling around the bitten area. The potent germicide effects of thyme prohibit infections, especially if the skin has been scratched or irritated.
By being abundant in antioxidants, thyme can aid in speeding up the recovery process of the affected area.
To use it as a fix crush fresh thyme leaves to release the essential oils, then apply directly to the bite. Likewise, you could also brew thyme tea, cool it, and apply it using a cloth. These procedures can soothe irritation and accelerate healing, making thyme a simple and effective solution.
How To Prevent Mosquito Bites?
Here are some of the easy tips and techniques to prevent mosquito bites.
1. Use Mosquito Nets
Try sleeping under mosquito nets if your sleeping area is near a high mosquito zone. You can also select nets infused with repellent for added protection. These nets are very necessary for infants and young children as they are more prone to mosquito diseases.
2. Use Mosquito Repellents
Apply repellents containing DEET, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to disclosed skin and clothing. These are highly effective in dissuading mosquitoes.
3. Install Screens and Keep Doors Closed
You can use windows and door nets to keep mosquitoes from entering your safe space, especially in the evening. Mend any holes or tears in the screen and keep your doors and windows closed.
4. Eliminate Still Water
Mosquitoes tend to breed in still water so you must regularly empty the containers like birdbaths, flowerpots, gutters, and any motionless water around your home.
5. Wear Protective Clothing
Generate the habit of wearing long sleeves, long pants, and socks to cover bare skin during high mosquito activity times(dawn and dusk). As mosquitoes are generally attracted to dark colors you can wear light-colored clothes to distract them.
Science Behind The Itchiness
The itching you experience following a mosquito bite is actually your body's response! Saliva is injected into the bite site by mosquitoes to stop our blood from clotting. Thus there are numerous anticoagulants in the saliva.
The saliva of mosquitoes activates inflammatory reactions in our bodies because it is acknowledged as a foreign substance. The neighboring tissue swells, becomes red, and starts to itch as a result.
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