With the return of sunny days, the mosquito has reappeared in mainland France, ready to bite us. How to relieve itching caused by mosquito bites? Review of natural remedies.
Plague of summer, mosquitoes annoy our nights by hovering around us for hours in order to drink our blood. Not content to buzz near our ears and keep us awake, they end up irreparably stinging us leaving itchy bites on our skin.
In question: histamine, a substance secreted by our body as an immune response to the injection of mosquito saliva, and which produces this intense itching sensation. Fortunately, there are solutions to permanently relieve itching.
Cold
Among these, the cold is an ally against itching. In the event of an itchy bite, you can apply a compress of cold water or an ice cube.
The hot
Conversely, it is also quite possible to apply a compress of hot water, a used tea bag, or even, if you are adventurous, to bring a lit cigarette closer to the bite. However, be careful not to touch the skin, at the risk of burning yourself.
Essential oils
Certain essential oils with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties are particularly effective against itching related to mosquito bites. This is the case of spike lavender, peppermint, tea tree, eucalyptus, chamomile and clove oils. One or two drops on a compress then placed on the bite are generally enough to soothe the itching. However, be careful not to use them pure on toddlers. They are also prohibited in pregnant women.
Vinegar and baking soda
True grandmother’s remedy, vinegar remains a safe choice to relieve itching. You can use white or cider vinegar, pure or diluted, on a compress to apply to the mosquito bite.
Another tip from our ancestors: baking soda, to be diluted in water (about 3 tablespoons in 100 ml of water), then applied to the area concerned using a compress.
The banana
Don’t throw away your banana peels! They can be invaluable in reducing itching. On clean skin, apply the peel on the flesh side for five to ten minutes.
Menthol and aloe vera
Known for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, gels based on menthol andaloe vera can be applied safely to mosquito bites.
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