9 natural mosquito bite home remedies to stop the itch

There is nothing quite like the smell of summer. Freshly cut grass, the taste of juicy strawberries and pink watermelon, the sun setting later in the evenings, the excitement of the holidays approaching, and then … MOZZIES! They really can put a dampener on an outdoor evening or a family camping trip in the bush.

When it comes to mozzies, fortunately most of us only suffer a few itchy and uncomfortable bites, and occasionally must endure broken sleep caused by that immediately recognisable ‘buzzzz’ near your head. It’s not fun!

Mosquitoes can also carry certain viruses and parasites, and in more serious cases, bites from these mosquitoes can cause severe illness. We all know that mosquitoes carry the parasite that causes malaria, but they are also known to carry the viruses that cause West Nile fever and Yellow fever.

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When travelling into an area known for mosquito-borne diseases, it is very important to consult a medical or wellness professional for preventative treatment before you travel. But what about when you’re simply out and about, and you’re still being ‘eaten alive’?

Most conventional insect-repelling brands contain the active ingredient diethyltoluamide, commonly known as Deet. It is a slightly yellow oil intended to be applied to the skin or to clothing, and provides protection against mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, leeches, and many other biting insects.

“When travelling into an area known for mosquito-borne diseases, it is very important to consult a medical or wellness professional for preventative treatment before you travel.”

While this may sound convenient, everyday use of Deet has led to it seeping into our water sources and streams. Deet is highly toxic to freshwater fish and many harmless insects.

As always, one of our main concerns is exposing our children to unnecessary chemicals – and DEET is one we can, and should, avoid! Fortunately, there are eco-friendly products such as Pure Beginnings Insect Repellent Spray and Stick.

If you happen to forget your insect repellent products and do get bitten by a mosquito – don’t worry!

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Here are 9 natural mosquito bite home remedies you can try to stop the itch:

Vinegar

When you first notice the itchy bite, directly apply a small amount of vinegar to the affected area.

Aloe

Use either the fresh inner leaf gel directly from an aloe plant or organic aloe juice. They both work well at providing relief.

Baking soda and water

Make a thick paste of baking soda and water and apply generously to the bite.

Onion

Place a fresh slice on the affected area for several minutes until the itching subsides.

Toothpaste

Apply a small amount of all-natural peppermint toothpaste.

Raw honey

Take a small amount of honey and apply directly.

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Lime or lemons

Apply directly to the bite.

Garlic

Put a piece of raw garlic on the wound. You may feel some mild burning, but you should feel some major relief afterwards.

Salt paste

Take finely ground salt and mix with a small amount of water until you have a thick paste. Apply this salt paste directly to the mosquito bite to relieve the itch.