One of the things we often overlook during the warm months is bug bites. Kids with allergies seem to react more intensely to big bites than other might, and the itching, scratching, discomfort, inflammation, and infections can all make things worse. The catch-22 seems to be that many of the bug repellent products on the market are made from materials that parents simply don’t want in their homes. Whether it’s an issue of allergies, sensitivities, or just a preference for less chemicals, there are lots of reasons to go natural! This week we’re going to look at three really simple ways to keep the bugs away and soothe bug bites without using harsh chemicals or other irritants.
Avoid The Bite!
Here are a few simple things you can try that humans love but bugs hate!
Apple Cider Vinegar
Try dabbing or spritzing a small bit of ACV or even white vinegar on the skin for a really effective and gentle insect repellent. The scent will disappear in a matter of minutes, and most skin types have no issue with full strength vinegar being applied topically.
Tea Sprays
There are several herbs that can be brewed into a strong tea, cooled, then spritzed on the skin as a natural repellent. Try basil, lemon balm, calendula, or eucalyptus.
Garden Protection
The same plants mentioned above can be grown around your yard for season-long bug protection! Lemon balm is a fragrant and hardy herb that does well in most places. Basil can be grown successfully in containers and used for cooking, and calendula makes colorful floral additions to any yard.
Soothe The Sting!
When a ting or bite happens, try these simply home remedies that are all natural and time tested!
Aloe Vera
Soothing, hydrating, and a great swelling reliever, a small application of aloe vera can put an end to itching, scratching, and bumps in no time!
Peppermint Leaves
Try rubbing a fresh peppermint leaf on a bite or sting to cool the heat and cleanse the area.
Honey
Local honey is naturally anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory – just two of the many benefits it’s reputed for. Try applying a small dab of honey to a bite and watch the healing action happen!
ScratchMeNot Mittens
For children who take to scratching, it’s important to interrupt the process before injury or infections happen. Having ScratchMeNot mittens on hand is a great way to keep itching fingers away from treatment areas or to give soothing applications time to do their job before being scratched away. See them all here.
Here’s to a bug-free summer!
Mosquito image by JJ Harrison (jjharrison89@facebook.com)