If you didn't have our In The Outdoors Body Mist or Lotion handy for protection, there are many natural remedies to relieve the effects of insect bites and stings. If you are stung by a bee, remove the stinger immediately so venom will not get into your system. If you experience breathing problems after a bee or wasp sting, or hives develop on your body, get medical help immediately.
Some essential oils and herbs can be quite effective to relieve itching, swelling, and pain. Experiment to see which one or combination works for you and your family members.
One drop of Peppermint essential oil rubbed into the centre of a bite or sting can make the area feel cool. It increases blood flow to the area that carries off venom. This will decrease the swelling and itching. Wash your hands after applying it and be careful not to touch your eyes and mouth after applying this oil. This can be effective for bee, wasp, and mosquito stings and bites.
BEE STINGS
Apply Peppermint essential oil neat or a cold compress with Chamomile tea. Apply one drop neat Tanacetum annuum or German Chamomile three times a day for two days.
WASP STINGS
Treat wasp stings with cider or wine vinegar. Into one teaspoon vinegar put two drops each Lavender and German Chamomile and dab on the sting three times a day.
MOSQUITO BITES
Try using neat Lavender or Peppermint essential oil on the bite. If you have been bitten over a large area, take one cup cider vinegar or the juice of two lemons and add 10 drops Lavender and 5 drops of Thyme linalol. Draw a bath and once it is full, put the mixture into the bath and swish well.
Some people find relief by an application of Bruise and Wound Gel. Here is another formula to make and keep with you in case of bites:
150 drops Geranium (Pelargonium asperum or graveolens) essential oil
135 drops Eucalyptus citriodora essential oil
15 drops Tanacetum annuum essential oil
Apply two or three drops to the affected area three times a day.
PLANTAIN (Plantago major) and CHICKWEED (Stellaria media)
These two plants are found in yards, alleys, and gardens. Most consider them annoying weeds, but they are valuable herbal allies. Crush the fresh leaves of either plant, apply to the affected area, and bandage. This often brings amazing, instant relief.
GREEN CLAY and ECHINACEA TINCTURE
When a bite won’t heal and there is still inflammation use this poultice: One teaspoon Echinacea Tincture and One teaspoon water. Mix in enough Green Clay to make a paste. Apply to the bite or sting and bandage.
BAKING SODA
Apply a paste of baking soda and water directly to bites and leave for an hour.