Summer nights are the best. There’s nothing like spending a night camping with your friends or simply drinking on a patio, except for those pesky little things called mosquitoes. Not only are they annoying, but they leave lasting bites that can itch for up to two weeks afterwards. Thankfully, you can find a few simple solutions to the itching right in your pantry.
1. Coconut oil
Photo by Claire Waggoner
I think everyone’s tired of hearing about the endless uses for coconut oil, but this miracle stuff is perfect to put on mosquito bites, too. It’s anti-microbial, which cleans the wound. Then, it rejuvenates skin cells, helps in shedding of dead skin cells, and provides necessary moisture to help it heal faster.
2. Milk
Photo by Akanksha Joshi
Can’t seem to stop the burning from your bites? Mix one part powdered milk with two parts water and add a pinch or two of salt. Rub the paste onto the spots and the milk’s enzymes will help neutralize the insect bite venom.
3. Baking soda
Photo by Jedd Marrero
A tried and true method, baking soda paste has been used for years to help cure bug bites. Mix two parts baking soda with one part water and rub the paste onto your bites. The swelling and itching will subside shortly after applying.
4. Honey
Photo courtesy of cleaneatingmag.com
Honey is both anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, which is just what you need to help heal an itchy bite. Simply dab a bit of honey onto your bite and watch it clear up within a few minutes.
5. Basil
Photo by Corinne Odom
Studies suggest that the herb you use for your favorite Italian dishes contains chemical compounds, like eugenol, that can relieve itchy skin. It is recommended that you boil two cups of water and add half an ounce of dried basil leaves. Let it steep for a few minutes, then dip a washcloth in it and apply to your skin. If you don’t have time, though, rubbing a few fresh basil leaves on your bites is just as effective.
6. Banana peel
Photo by Helen Poon
Banana peels are used to treat many skin lesions, such as bruises and warts. But did you know you can also use it to relieve itching from mosquito bites? Simply peel a banana and rub the inside of the peel on your bites. The itching should subside almost immediately.
7. Tea
Photo by Ana Cvetkovic
After using a tea bag (preferably green tea), let it cool and press it onto your mosquito bites. Tea is known for its efficient anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which will reduce the swelling of your bite and help heal it by acting as an astringent.
8. Oatmeal
Photo by Becky Hughes
The quick and easy breakfast staple just got an upgrade. Oatmeal contains compounds that have anti-irritant qualities that can relieve itching and swelling. Make a paste by mixing equal parts oatmeal and water. Spoon the mixture into a paper towel and hold it oatmeal-side down onto the bite.