Natural remedies to deal with mosquito bites

WITH glorious summer weather comes one of Mother Nature’s more annoying creations: the mosquito.

Not only can they carry life-threatening diseases, including La Crosse encephalitis, malaria and dengue, but they can also turn any holiday into a nightmare with their never-ending buzzing sound and their itchy bites.

Fortunately there are a number of simple natural ways to ease the aggravating itch caused by the saliva released by the female mosquito into the wound. For instance, ice can help numb the nerves that conduct the itching and the pain and will also keep the bite from swelling even more.

It may come as a surprise to some but vinegar can stop itching due to its acidity. Try putting a few drops on a piece of cotton and wiping every individual bite. Honey can also relieve itching thanks to its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. It is better to opt for raw honey and to dab a little bit right on the pesky bite.

Not only a delicious beverage, tea can ease swelling on the bites thanks to the tannins it contains, which act as an astringent and draw the extra fluid out of the bite.

And last but not least, try crushing up some basil and applying it to the bite. This aromatic leaf contains thymol and camphor, which can relieve itching.