Mosquitoes, though small, are extremely dangerous. They are carriers of some of the deadliest diseases like malaria and dengue. Their bites can be quite irritating because they itch and have to be scratched till the skin starts to turn red and sore.
Following are some natural ways to deal with mosquito bites.
- Wash the skin where the mosquitoes have bitten with rubbing alcohol. Don't rub the area or you might end up increasing the sore. Simply pat it dry.
- Cover the mosquito bite with a piece of scotch tape. This has three advantages. Firstly, you won't be able to scratch yourself sore. Second, the itch will eventually subside and third, when you remove the scotch tape, the irritants and toxins will get removed from the skin.
- A nice hot bath can help soothe and relax the skin. So if the itching is intense, it is best to soak yourself in warm water for a while.
- With your fingernails, mark an X sign on the raised bump. This helps in stopping the itch temporarily.
- Make a paste of water and baking soda and rub it on the spot. Alternatively, you can use lemon or lime rind. However, if the bite has become raw because of all the scratching, it is best to let it remain as it is.
- If the bite is fresh, putting some apple cider vinegar on it will certainly help. Alternatively, you can use Hydrocortisone cream.
- Vicks Vaporub can also be applied on the bite. The eucalyptus oil in this ointment gives a soothing effect to the bite.
- Take some fresh aloe vera gel from a leaf and apply it on the affected area. Alternatively, you can also use diluted lavender essential oil or toothpaste.
- Tea tree essential oil is famous as a great skin product. Use this oil on the bite. Its germicidal properties will help soothe the skin by eliminating the toxins.
- A mixture of oil and water or salt and water when rubbed on the bite, brings prompt relief.
- You may even rub a banana peel on the affected skin.
- Put some synthetic or white vinegar on a ball of cotton and press it hard against the bitten area.
- Some people use their saliva on the bite to soothe the pain and itching. The saliva has enzymes which help soothe the itching.
- Lacto calamine lotion can also be used on the mosquito bite to stop the itching.
answered by G M