As the weather warms up and Floridians flock back into the sunshine, the pests that never seem to rest return. Across the state of Florida, there are over eighty species of mosquitoes, but only thirteen of those species are known to transmit diseases to people and animals. While the rest may not be deadly, humans are allergic to most mosquitoes’ saliva, which is what creates the signature lump they leave behind.
Mosquitoes live in pools of still water, such as puddles, ponds, or rain left in your gutters. They feed swiftly by piercing your skin, siphoning your blood, injecting you with their saliva, and leaving the scene. Mosquito saliva contains enzymes that keep your blood from clotting. By doing this, your blood flow isn’t interrupted and your body doesn’t notice right away. Then, the saliva enters your blood stream and the allergic reaction begins. Your blood stream sends white blood cells to the site of the bite which creates irritation, inflammation, and intense itching. By scratching the bug bite, you stimulate blood flow to the area, which sends more white blood cells and increases the urge to scratch. Luckily, there are several treatments for these pesky bites that not only reduce the itching sensation but also help your body heal.
- Oatmeal. If you’ve ever had chicken pox or poison ivy, you are probably already familiar with an oatmeal bath. Mix one cup of dry, ground oatmeal with warm bath water and soak your body for 20-30 minutes. Oatmeal reduces inflammation and irritation of the skin while exfoliating your skin, leaving you smooth and itch-free afterwards.
- Raw Honey. For millennia, honey has been used around the world for healing. If you don’t mind getting sticky, add a small drop of honey to each bite. The anti-inflammatory properties in honey will alleviate that pestering itch. In addition, honey serves as an antibacterial and antimicrobial shield for the bite to prevent any infections.
- Aloe Vera. Known for healing irritated skin and protecting wounds, aloe’s cool sensation offers near immediate relief for bug bites. Cut off a piece of an aloe plant or use your favorite sunburn solution. Keep applying regularly and generously as needed. Aloe increases the collagen produced by your skin which expedites the healing process.
- Baking Soda. Sodium bicarbonate has uses all around the house, including in your first aid kit. Add just enough water to one tablespoon of baking soda to make a topical paste and lather it onto your bites. Allow the baking soda paste to sit for 10 minutes before washing it away with lukewarm water. Baking soda has a high pH, so the alkalinity of the compound will neutralize the acid in the mosquito’s saliva and relax your body’s reaction.
- Basil. Not only is it a delicious herb, but basil also contains eugenol, a chemical compound used for fighting bacteria and administering anesthesia. Bring two cups of water to a boil and mix in half an ounce of basil leaves. Remove from heat and steep the mixture until it has cooled. Dip a washcloth in your basil tea and gently rub it into your bites. Similar to honey, basil will help prevent against infections around the bite area and will temporarily eliminate the itching sensation.
Don’t let mosquitoes keep you from enjoying the weather! Treating the aftermath of a bug bite can be easy, quick, and inexpensive. Try these home remedies the next time you find yourself covered in those bothersome bumps. 
Sasha Schreiber
Home & Yard Magazine
