How to Cure Insect Bites Naturally
Homeopathic Remedies for Bee Stings in Spring Months
Feb 17, 2009
As warm weather increases during springtime months, an abundance of creepy-crawly critters come out of hiding. For centuries, spider bites and bee stings have been treated using natural tinctures or oils created from crushed herbs or plants. These inexpensive home remedies can ease itching, draw out infection, and reduce swelling. Most ingredients can be purchased in grocery stores or found in your own backyard.
Cleaning the Wound
Immediately following an insect bite or sting, clean hands well and examine the wound to determine whether the stinger has been left inside the skin (in the case of a bee, wasp, or other stinging insect). Remove the stinger using a pair of tweezers. Do not squeeze the wound, or venom may be injected further into the skin. Clean the area thoroughly using a cotton ball and rubbing alcohol before applying a natural remedy.
Homeopathic Remedies for Insect Bites
- Baking soda: immediately following a sting or bite, create a paste using 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 2 teaspoons of vinegar. Apply it on the bite to reduce itching and swelling. It is believed that the enzymes created in this solution break down the venom in the bite. Crushed and moistened Alka-Seltzer tablets, which contain sodium bicarbonate (the main ingredient in baking soda), should also do the trick.
- Plantain: The People’s Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies, by Joe and Theresa Graedon, recommends crushing the leaves of plantain, a commonly found weed. Use a mortar and pestle to extract the juice. Apply the juice to the affected area to reduce itching and swelling.
- Lavender oil: lavender helps to reduce swelling and itching. To create your own insect bite lotion, combine 1 teaspoon of lavender essential oil and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Mix the ingredients thoroughly and apply directly on the injury, being careful to avoid the eyes.
- Mud: as disgusting as it may seem, applying mud to an itchy, swollen bite reduces swelling. For a sweeter smelling remedy, try toothpaste (below).
- Onion: there is scientific proof that the enzymes found in a cut onion help to reduce the itching created by mosquito bites. Onions contain enzymes that break down prostaglandins, the inflammatory compounds created by the body in response to trauma.
- Tape: applying tape to a wound created by a caterpillar or stinging nettles (a plant, not an insect) removes the tiny hairs or barbs from the skin.
- Toothpaste: applying toothpaste to a mosquito bite reduces swelling and itching. Allow the toothpaste to dry and remain on the skin for several hours. If possible, use an organic, all-natural product, free of artificial ingredients.
Consult a Doctor
While most insects are relatively harmless, some insect and spider bites can be very dangerous. If a severe allergic reaction develops like extreme swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, or disorientation, consult a doctor immediately.
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