Free Tips & Easy "How to" Instructions
Although small, insects can be very unpleasant. If you are stung or bitten by a venomous insect (wasps, hornets, yellow jackets, all bees and fire ants), it is almost always followed with pain, an intense redness and swelling. Allergic reactions are quite common too. This is because the insect leaves the venom behind. If the symptoms include hard breathing, disorientation or eyes and mouth swelling, it is recommended to consult a doctor. On the other hand, if the symptoms are not as severe, you can use natural remedies.
When you get stung or bitten by a non-venomous insect (chiggers, fleas, lice, scabies, bed bugs, ticks and mosquitoes), the common reaction is redness and swollen, burning or painful skin, and itching. Generally the reactions are much less painful, if at all. The swelling and redness are rather mild and allergic reactions are seldom. In these cases it is recommended to use one of natural remedies as well.
The first and the most important step is to remove the stinger.
When doing that try not to squeeze as this will inject the venom deeper (you don't want that!). The best method is to use a dull table knife. Place it firmly against your skin next to the point of the stinger. Apply constant pressure while scraping the knife across your skin and stinger. Done this way, you can remove the stinger without injecting additional venom.
Clean the bite area thoroughly with soap and water.
Rub the affected area with alcohol. That will reduce the initial itching.
Tea tree oil is a very good antiseptic, which should be applied after the stinger has been removed and the affected area cleansed.
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All these lotions stop the itching and reduce swelling.
Mix a table spoon of lavender oil with a table spoon of olive oil and apply it directly on the injury, but not around the eyes.
Ingredients:
As first mix the Echinacea, water and lavender. Then add the mixture slowly to the clay while stirring. The paste should stick to the skin. Apply it on the injured area.
You can store it in an air-tight container. for later usage. If it becomes dry, to use again, add a bit of water until you get the same consistency as previously.
Mix tea tree oil, peppermint and lavender. It neutralizes toxicity, stops the itching almost immediately and can reduce skin inflammation. Combined with baking soda or a honey mixture and applied a drop or two onto the insect bite it is even more efficient.
By the way, cucumber juice, when put on the bitten area, has a cooling effect.
When you know that you are, or might be, exposed to mosquitoes, think of these few helpful tips to keep them at a distance:
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