sudden increase in these bugs which sting and cause pain and soreness on our skin. And despite the number of bug repellents we take, we would see these bug bites on and off. Mostly the bug bites are not noticeable initially and then eventually they turn itchy and painful. While there is nothing much you can do, but there definitely are some amazing home remedies for bug bites that itch and swell. These are soothing and calming for the itch and soreness. Do carry all insect repellants when camping or hiking in the wold.
Check Out: Home Remedies for Bug Bites that Itch and Swell
Top 10 Home Remedies for Bug Bites:
Home remedies for bug bites aim at providing the necessary soothing and pain relief. Also if they are taken timely they can prevent any further infection. Home remedies for bug bites are:
1- Ice:
Crushed ice on the site of bug bite can help in reducing inflammation. This reduced temperature is a short term relief which must be taken if the pain is too bad. Cold pack also relieved itching and inflammation too. Just rub some ice but do not leave the ice on bug bite for more than a few minute as it may cause damage to the already sensitive skin. Wrap the ice in a wash cloth and then gently rub around the bug bite
2- Oatmeal:
Oatmeals contain anti-irritant compounds which help in reducing itching and swelling. Just make a paste with oatmeal and water. Then apply over the bug bite site and leave for 15 minutes. Then using a damp wash cloth rub this area gently and wipe it clean. You can apply oatmeal crushed in your bath tub, at the places you have itching and swelling
3- Honey:
Honey is a natural humectant which has amazing antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Honey is used for sore throat. Bumps and bruises for all of these wonderful properties. Just apply a few drops of honey and rub it gently on the bug bite site. Keep it for 15 minutes and wash it away to sooth the itch and prevent any soreness or swelling further.
4- Aloe Vera:
Aloe vera is a great naturally occuring anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and anti oxidizing agent. The fresh aloe vera gel works magical on skin and hair. Applying aloe vera gel at bug bite site can help in soothing itch and settling down the swelling. This can also heal minor wounds and bruises, also preventing spread of infection
5- Apple cider vinegar:
ACV is a magical potion for all skin and health issues. ACV has rich anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and anti oxidizing properties. These help in soothing the itch and settling down the swelling. Vinegar also helps in reducing burning sensations and stinging. This is a great disinfectant. Just mix ACV and water in equal quantities, now using a wash cloth dab the bug bite site and keep it for half an hour
6- Baking soda:
Baking soda is rich in antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can be a bit abrasive but mix it in vinegar or water and apply at the bug bite site. This provides relief from sting and itch. Also preventing spread of infection
7- Onion:
Onions have naturally rich anti-fungal properties. Just cut a slice of onion and gently rub at the site of bug bite. This not just relieves from itch and pain but also prevents further infection
8- Witch Hazel:
Witch hazel is a naturally occuring astringent, because of tannins present in it. It is great for scratches and minor injuries on skin. Applying witch hazel directly at teh site of bug bite helps in sooth the itch and burning sensation, reduces skin inflammation and swelling and also speeds up the process of healing.
9- Garlic:
Garlic is rich in anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. Just mix some minced garlic in your regular lotion or moisturizer and apply on the skin. Let it sir for 15 minutes and wash it clean
10- Toothpaste:
Toothpaste contains mint flavour which has menthol which cools down our body. Just applying some toothpaste soothes and calms the itch and inflammation at the bug bit. Keep it for 15 minutes and wash it away.
11- Milk and water:
Mix equal parts of milk and water and using a cloth or cotton swab apply all over your bug bite site. They help in alleviating pain and reducing the itch and swelling
12- Aspirin mixed with water:
Crush some aspirin and mic it with water. Apply this concoction at the bug bite site. This helps in reducing pain and swelling.
13- Raw potato:
Potato helps in quick soothing and alleviating the itch at the site of a bug bite. Just take a slice of potato and rub it all over by rubbing it gently. Leave for 15 minutes and wash it away later
Best home remedies for bed bug bites:
Bed bugs are horrifying little crawlers at home which not just suck up the wood and furniture but bite us and cause immense pain and suffering. Some home remedies for bed bug bites are:
- Wash the bite with soap and water
- Apply lemon juice, baking soda, or apply aloe vera gel at the bed bug site and rub it gently
- Additionally, you can apply over the counter steroid based anti-itch cream
- Take oral anti-histamines if the allergic reactions show up
- Cucumber and tea bags can be applied to sooth the itch and swelling if any
The above compilation on Home remedies for bug bites that itch and swell is to help you identify these bug bites, and take immediate steps to prevent them from spreading. Home remedies are just emergency care before you can reach the ER. Never ignore these bug bites and specially when you are outdoors. Insects may be poisonous so take all preventive measures to keep them away.
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