Natural Ways to Soothe and Prevent Mosquito Bites

Mosquitoes – actually, the female ones – may be tiny, but they can drive us crazy. They need the proteins and iron in our blood to develop their eggs. That's why in the summer, we often feel a small bite that turns into itchiness, swelling, and redness. When temperatures rise, mosquitoes are more active. So, how can we naturally keep mosquitoes away, and what can we do if we've already been bitten?

Repelling mosquitoes can be a challenge, especially if you live in hot and humid areas. While chemical repellents might be effective, they're not everyone's cup of tea. Here are some natural ways to keep mosquitoes at bay:

Essential Oils

Lavender Oil: This strong-smelling oil repels mosquitoes. A few drops on a cloth near your windows can do wonders.

Tea Tree Oil: Known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, this oil is also a great mosquito deterrent.

Citronella Oil: One of the most famous oils for repelling mosquitoes. Mix it with water to spray around or use citronella candles.

Mosquito-Repelling Plants

Basil: The smell of basil keeps mosquitoes away. Place basil pots around your home.

Mint: Not just for tea - mint also keeps mosquitoes at bay. Plant in pots and distribute around or inside your home.

Rosemary: Besides being a kitchen herb, rosemary can repel mosquitoes.

Fans

Mosquitoes are weak fliers and struggle in strong winds. A fan is a simple and effective way to keep them away from your patio or rooms.

Standing Water

Mosquitoes breed in standing water. To prevent their multiplication, empty water from containers, roofs, and gutters.

Already Bitten? Here's How to Ease the Itchiness and Redness:

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera gel is excellent for calming irritated skin and can reduce itchiness. Fresh gel from the aloe plant is best, but store-bought gel works too.

Coconut Oil

Rich in antioxidants, coconut oil is a natural anti-inflammatory. Apply to the bite to relieve itching and redness.

Lavender Oil

Applying a drop or two of lavender oil on the bite soothes pain and itchiness. Lavender is known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. Usually, essential oils should not be applied directly on the body unless diluted with a carrier oil like coconut, almond, avocado oils, etc. However, lavender and tea tree oil can be applied directly. For young children, it's best to consult an expert.

Ice

Ice can reduce itchiness and swelling. Place an ice cube wrapped in fabric on the bite for a few minutes.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, you can dip a cotton ball in vinegar and apply it to the bite to ease symptoms.

Honey

Honey is a natural antibacterial agent that can soothe irritated skin and reduce itching. Simply apply a thin layer of honey on the bite and leave it for a few minutes. Be cautious and avoid using honey on infants under one year.

Baking Soda Paste

Mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a little water to make a paste. Apply to the bite and leave for about 10 minutes before washing off. Do not leave the paste on the skin for too long to avoid dryness or irritation.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is known for its soothing properties. Make a paste by mixing oatmeal with water and apply to the bite.

Banana Peel

Rubbing a banana peel on the bite can alleviate itching due to its soothing properties.

Cucumber

Fresh cucumber slices can ease itching and calm the skin. Just place cucumber slices on the bite for a few minutes.

Green Tea

Place a used and cooled green tea bag on the bite. Green tea has anti-inflammatory properties and can relieve itching and swelling.

Cold Compress

Soak a towel in cold tap water, wring it out, and place it on the bite for a few minutes. The cold helps reduce swelling and calm itching. An ice cube wrapped in fabric will have the same effect.

Asbestos-Free Talc (Plant-Based)

Apply a small amount of talc to the bite to relieve itching.