Mosquito Bite Relief – Home Remedies to Stop the Itch
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One of the best things that I like about winter in Wisconsin in the lack of mosquito bites. (Though we do have a few of them that hide in the fire wood.) Once warm weather hits, they show up, especially when it’s warm and wet. Instead of hitting the drug store for hydrocortisone cream, I use what we already have for mosquito bite relief.
Using the pantry, garden, and home medicine cabinet, these natural remedies provide relief from the itching and swelling. Apply them several times per day, or as needed, to your mosquito bites.
Table of contents
1. Mosquito Bite Relief with Cold
Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the bite to reduce swelling and numb the area. Wrap ice cubes in a cloth or use a cold spoon to avoid direct contact with the skin. We always keep a couple of small hot/cold packs in the freezer. You can use the cold compress in combination with the other non-sticky home remedies.
2. Baking Soda Paste
Mix baking soda with a little water to create a paste. Apply it to the bite and let it sit for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off. Baking soda helps neutralize the pH of the skin and reduces the inflammatory response that causes itching.
3. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera has natural anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the skin. It also acts as a cooling agent, reducing the burning sensation and irritation caused by the bite. (It’s also great as a natural sunburn remedy.) Apply fresh aloe gel directly to the bite to reduce redness and discomfort.
I started out with one aloe plant over 30 years ago. Since then, I’ve harvest many leaves, and given away many baby plants. Take care of your aloe and it will take care of you.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
Dabbing apple cider vinegar on the bite with a cotton ball can help reduce itching and inflammation. The acidity of the vinegar helps neutralize irritants in the mosquito saliva. If you have sensitive skin, dilute it with water before applying.
5. Honey
Honey has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It forms a protective barrier over the bite, preventing infection while reducing itching and swelling. Honey is also amazing for wound care and blisters. Learn more about honey as medicine.
6. Castor Oil
Castor oil is a thick, nourishing oil with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It contains ricinoleic acid, which helps ease the itching and reduce swelling. Apply a small amount of castor oil directly to the insect bite and let it absorb into the skin. It also helps lighten age spots and softens dry skin.
7. Basil or Peppermint Leaves
Crushing fresh basil or peppermint leaves and rubbing them on the bite can help relieve itching. These herbs contain natural compounds like eugenol and menthol, which act as cooling agents and anti-itch compounds.
8. Oatmeal Paste
Oatmeal is commonly used to relieve itchy skin due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It contains avenanthramides, which block inflammatory compounds and help soothe irritation. Mix oatmeal with water to form a paste and apply it to the itchy bite. Alternatively, taking an oatmeal bath can help soothe multiple bites.
9. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a natural astringent that helps reduce swelling and itching by constricting blood vessels and decreasing inflammation. Apply a small amount using a cotton ball to provide mosquito bite relief.
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10. Garlic or Onion Juice
Applying garlic or onion juice to a mosquito bite may help reduce swelling and irritation. This is due to their sulfur compounds, which have anti-inflammatory properties. These juices have a strong smell, so you may not want want to apply them if you’re going to be in a group of people. (Unless your friends really like garlic and onions.)
11. Plantago Species (Plantain) for Mosquito Bites
Plantago, commonly known as plantain, is a popular herbal remedy for treating mosquito bites. Its leaves contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
To use, crush fresh plantain leaves and apply them directly to the bite. You can also make up plantain infused oil for treating larger areas, or plantain salve. Plantain is one of my favorite herbal remedies, because it grow wild all over the planet. You can learn more about plantain in the article, “Grandma Called it Medicine Leaf“.
Mosquito Feeding Habits and Why Bites Itch
Only female mosquitoes suck blood, as they require the protein to develop their eggs. Males, on the other hand, feed on nectar and plant juices. A female mosquito can bite multiple times in a single feeding session if she is not disturbed.
When a mosquito bites, it injects saliva into the skin. This saliva contains anticoagulants and proteins that trigger the body’s immune response, leading to the release of histamines. Histamines cause itching, redness, and swelling around the bug bite.
While these bites are usually harmless, they can cause itching, swelling, and irritation. They may also spread diseases, like West Nile Virus and malaria. Some people may also be allergic.
Signs of an Allergic Reaction to Mosquito Bites
While most mosquito bites cause mild irritation, some individuals may have stronger allergic reactions. Signs of an allergic reaction include:
- Severe swelling beyond the bite area
- Hives or widespread redness
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Anaphylaxis (in rare cases)
If you experience any severe reactions, seek medical attention immediately.
Preventing Future Bites
To avoid mosquito bites in the first place, consider:
How to Get Rid of Mosquitoes – Non-toxic Tips for Reducing Mosquitoes
Mosquito Repellent Plants (and How to Use Them)
What Attracts Mosquitoes? (Blood Types, Colors, and More)
Natural Mosquito Repellents – Recommendations & Recipes
By using these natural remedies, you can alleviate mosquito bite discomfort without relying on chemical-based treatments. Keep these methods in mind the next time you find yourself dealing with itchy mosquito bites!
This article is written by Laurie Neverman. Laurie is a lifelong learner with a passion for natural remedies and holistic healing. She’s successfully improved her eyesight and cleared her psoriasis.