Tag Archives: Bug Bites

6 Home Remedies for Bug Bites by @Donna_Fasano

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Help! I’ve been bitten by a mosquito. Twice! And the red bumps that were left behind itch like the dickens! What to do? Here are some quick and easy home remedies for bug bites.

Remedies for Bug Bites

  1. Baking soda – Mix a bit of baking soda with water and coat the bite. Sodium bicarbonate will relieve itching. (I smeared some on my bites.)
  2. Toothpaste – Yes, toothpaste! Most brands of toothpaste contain menthol which alleviates itch and swelling. Toothpaste also contains astringent ingredients that draw out fluid from beneath the skin which helps with swelling.
  3. Basil – Mince up some fresh basil and rub it on the mosquito bites. Basil contains eugenol which relieves itchy skin. Don’t have fresh basil? Simmer some dried basil in water (as if you were making tea). Let the basil water cool, and then dip a cloth in the water and apply to the bites.
  4. Ice – Apply ice to the bites to help relieve itching and swelling. Only apply ice for about 10 minutes at a time. And never fall asleep with ice on your skin.
  5. Garlic – There are compounds in garlic that relieve itching and swelling. Place a slice of garlic and put it on the bite. This might not be the best remedy to use with children as garlic can sting.
  6. Aloe – Keep a bottle of aloe vera gel in your fridge. The gel will cool and help heal red, itchy skin.

Did you know you can make your own mosquito repellent? It’s easy to keep the bug bites at bay.

Homemade Insect Repellent

  • 2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 Tablespoon rubbing alcohol
  • 2 Tablespoon water
  • 25 drops citronella oil
  • 25 drops eucalyptus oil
  • 40 drops peppermint oil

Pour all ingredients into a small spray bottle and then shake. Make sure you shake before each application.

What are your best home remedies for bug bites?

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