So we understand that in most parts of the world— or at least in the US, mosques concerns aren’t high in February, but we know a good amount of you are traveling– and some of us, are living in high (year round) mosquito areas, so here we go: Nobody likes mosquitos. It’s the one insect that I can consistently swat without feeling any guilt. There are steps you can take to avoid these blood-thirsty pests. Such as, growing mosquito repelling plants (citronella, lemon balm, basil & lavender work well) and using a spray (or rub on) repellant on your body, like this one. But sometimes the preventive measures we take just aren’t enough.
I’m usually lucky enough to avoid being bitten, but the little jerks chew my daughter up. And there’s nothing more pitiful than a sad, itchy toddler. But, luckily enough, all it requires is a trip to the kitchen or garden to soothe those pesky bites.
Here are some things that help us :
Aloe – This is our go-to. Aloe has anti-inflammatory properties so it will reduce the swelling. I keep a fresh piece in the refrigerator so the coldness also soothes the pain.
Honey– It has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Dab it on with a q-tip for fast relief.
Witch Hazel – This will draw out the fluid from the bite, drying it out and relieving the swelling. Apply it with a cotton ball or hand towel.
Basil– It contains the anti-itch compounds camphor and thymol. You can rub a leaf directly on the bite or use it in essential oil form.
Peppermint– It contains menthol, which will cool the skin and relieve the painful burning sensation. Same as the basil, rub a leaf on the bite or use the essential oil. Both are very effective.
Happy February everyone!
Author & Illustrations by Emily De Nicolais exclusively for ohdeardrea. To see more of Emily’s work, click HERE
7 Comments
Meat tenderizer. The powdered kind.. I don't know the exact brand mixed with some fresh aloe jell. It's amazing how fast they go away. Well.. meat tenderizer! Of course they would.
I've never considered using basil or mint on bites before, even though I know they have a lot of great properties that would sooth an itch. Great idea! I'm in the middle of a snow storm right now, but I'll remember this for when summer rolls around.
xx Kathryn
http://www.throughthethicket.ca
Oh, I needed this! I'm slightly allergic to mosquito bites and am diagnosed with a lovely thing called "Skeeter Syndrome." No joke. When I get bitten, my bites swell to the size of Texas. I'm bookmarking this right now and will be using it once the mosquitoes emerge in the summertime! Thank you!
Circus & Bloom
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omg ME TOO. I thought I was the only one. I've noticed it depends a bit on my location though/type of mosquito I guess. It's only happened twice here in Florida, but when I've been bit up in Massachusetts, it's guaranteed. I once couldn't open an eye fro three days, from being bit on the forehead. And on multiple occasions from a foot being bitten, I haven't been able to walk!
these are some really great tips! thanks for sharing!
styleandchocolates
I've actually found that even just witch hazel and lavender essential oil work great on mosquito bites – especially for kids!
It's leading into the hottest month of the year in Melbourne at the moment, so this will come in very handy! Thank you!
sistertoginger.blogspot.com.au