Learn how to get rid of mosquito bites and get relief from the itching and swelling with these all-natural home remedies.
Mosquito bites are an inevitable part of the summer, especially if you in a wet climate or near standing water. And while there are many over-the-counter medications that can reduce itching and swelling, there are also plenty of all-natural remedies that can relieve mosquito bites without the need for expensive creams or chemicals.
Below are some of the best home remedies for treating mosquito bites and beating the itch.
How to get rid of mosquito bites naturally
Honey
For centuries, honey has been a staple home remedy for a variety of ailments, and it comes as no surprise that it can bring relief when you’re suffering from mosquito bites.
Honey is a natural anti-inflammatory, helping to reduce the redness and swelling of a bite. It also has antibacterial properties that work to prevent infection, which is especially important if you get the urge to scratch your mosquito bites.
Onion
Onions and other plants in the Allium family, such as garlic, leeks, and shallots, contain a compound called quercetin, which has natural anti-itch and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the irritation and swelling of mosquito bites.
Not only that, the pungent smell of these plants acts as a natural insect repellent to ensure that other mosquitoes stay away. Simply take a slice of raw onion and hold it against the bite for a minute or two to get the most benefit.
Baking soda
Because it is an alkaline solution, baking soda mixed with water helps to reduce itching and swelling by neutralizing the skin’s pH balance.
Simply mix baking soda with enough water to make a thick paste, then apply it to the affected area and let it sit for 10 to 20 minutes before rinsing it off.
Ice
Applying cold to a mosquito bite can numb the skin and relieve irritation, and it also reduces any unsightly redness and swelling.
Studies have shown that cold temperatures create a natural antihistamine response that keeps itching in check, but be careful not to put ice directly in contact with skin for more than 5 minutes at a time in order to avoid any skin damage.
The safest approach is to use a cold compress or wrap an ice cube in a washcloth for temporary relief.
Tea bag
Tea bags are an excellent way to deal with mosquito bites. Tea contains tannins that reduce swelling and irritation, as well as antioxidant and antiseptic compounds that speed up the healing process and prevent infection.
The best way to use tea bags is to steep them in water and then refrigerate them, since the cold will provide even more relief.
While any kind of tea will work, some studies have suggested that chamomile and white tea bags are slightly more effective.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal contains a number of natural emollients and antioxidants that help moisturize skin and reduce inflammation.
One type of antioxidant, known as avenathramides, are especially effective at soothing the itch that comes with mosquito bites.
Oatmeal is an excellent go-to option for anyone that comes back from the outdoors with bites all over their body, since the oats can be poured into warm bathwater for a soothing soak.
Witch hazel
Don’t let the strange name fool you – witch hazel, named for the plant that it is extracted from, is an all-natural astringent that helps relieve itching and swelling from insect bites and other irritants.
Because witch hazel also tightens the skin slightly after being applied, it can also help to reduce the appearance of bites by diminishing their size and redness, making it very handy if you have a mosquito bite in a visible area.
If possible, look for witch hazel that doesn’t include alcohol in it in order to avoid potentially drying out your skin.
Summary
Even repellents and clothing with good coverage can’t completely protect you, but knowing how to get rid of mosquito bites can give you fast relief from their effects. The natural remedies above can do wonders to alleviate the itching, redness, and swelling that comes with being outdoors in the summertime, without all of the cost or chemicals found in over-the-counter treatments.
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