The subject of bug bites and stings is particularly topical at this time of year! As you are probably more than aware, the bite itself is not a particular issue – the swelling that results with the associated discomfort of symptoms such as itching, which may persist and linger for days, is the actual problem. Given that this is a natural phenomenon, it makes sense that there has to be a number of natural ways to treat the symptoms of bug bites.
This article will investigate these natural ways.
Before we look at this, we’ll highlight the conventional, non-natural, ways these symptoms are dealt with.
Conventional ways to treat bug bites – the unnatural alternatives
As you can imagine, Big Pharma’s agents on the ground – namely pharmacists – are more than willing to sell you a number of “treatments” for bug bites – these include:
• Antihistamines
• Steroid creams
• Pain killers
At the risk of being cynical, clearly there is no money to be made from natural treatments!
Natural ways to treat bug bites – simple and yet effective
Oatmeal
One of the most surprising natural ways to treat bug bites is a nutritious breakfast cereal – oatmeal. This natural food contains anti-irritant compounds that are effective in relieving swelling and itching.
For this purpose, mix equal amounts of water and oatmeal and apply to the affected area for 10 minutes then rinse off.
Crushed ice
The cold temperature of ice is useful for easing the inflammation of bug bites and additionally boasts a numbing effect. Be aware that this option provides an immediate but short-term effect
Honey
Honey has been used for many years as a remedy for a multitude of ailments. Through its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties this includes the treatment of the unfortunate symptoms of bug bites.
To use, all you need to do is place a drop of honey on the affected area.
Aloe vera
The gel extracted from the leaf of the aloe vera plant (a common household plant) is invaluable for the treatment of burns – for this reason it is also effective in the treatment of bug bites.
To use aloe vera, cut a section of a leaf and apply the gel from the cut surface to the affected area. Allow this to dry and reapply as necessary.
Baking soda
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) – a common and inexpensive kitchen ingredient – is effective as one of the natural ways to treat the symptoms of bug bites.
To use, mix a one tablespoon of baking soda with sufficient water to create a paste and apply this to the affected area for at least 10 minutes – then rinse off.
Basil
In addition to being a wonderful recipe ingredient, the fragrant leaves of the basil plant are also used in many herbal remedies used to treat skin conditions. This includes the symptoms of bug bites – the antioxidants found within these leaves are believed to reduce skin inflammation.
To use this remedy, either boil 300ml of water with 15g dried basil leaves, cool then apply to the affected area or finely chop fresh basil leaves and rub these onto the affected skin.
Apple cider vinegar
Yes, its our old friend apple cider vinegar once again! This wonderful natural remedy for so many conditions can also be used effectively for the relief of the painful and irritating symptoms of bug bites and stings. Apple cider vinegar will ease burning and stinging sensations.
To use apple cider vinegar add it to cold water and apply to the affected area with cotton wool. For multiple bites or stings add 300ml of apple cider vinegar to a bath of cool water and soak in it for at least 20 minutes.
Onion
Onion juice is effective in easing the irritation and discomfort of a bug bite – additional antibacterial and anti-fungal properties will prevent any subsequent possibility of infection of the lesion.
To use – cut a slice from the onion and apply directly to the bite for 5 minutes then rinse the area.
Thyme
This wonderful distinctively fragrant herb has been used for many years as an effective natural treatment for a number of skin conditions. Thyme boasts anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties – very useful in the treatment of bug bite symptoms.
To use thyme as on of the natural ways to treat bug bites, finely chop fresh thyme leaves and apply these directly to the affected area.
Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil has been used for many years as a natural remedy to relieve the miseries of itching – this is particularly relevant as itching is a major after effect of a bug bite.
To use this oil, mix it with an inert carrier oil, such as jojoba oil, and apply the mixture to the affected area.
Chamomile tea
This particular tea is known as a well-used natural remedy for a number of conditions. In this context, the natural oils found within chamomile are particularly effective at reducing skin inflammation and itching.
To use chamomile tea as a bug bite treatment, simply steep a chamomile tea bag in water within the fridge for a good half an hour. Squeeze out any excess water from the tea bag and apply directly to the affected area for 15 minutes.
Garlic
I guess we all know that garlic is a potent natural remedy for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular issues such as high blood pressure and heart disease – but did you know that garlic is also an effective treatment for the irritating symptoms of a bug bite?
To use garlic to treat bug bite symptoms, mince it and mix into petroleum jelly (Vaseline ®), apply to the affected area for 15 minutes then wiping off and applying a cool cloth. Repeat this as necessary.
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