Stop the itch before it starts. 7+ things you can do when you get a mosquito bite

'Tis the season for sunny, summer days; trips to the beach; camping with the family and battling mosquitoes. The best way to avoid the welts and itch left by mosquito bites is to not get bitten in the first place. That's hardly realistic, though.
Once the bug has bitten, you know you shouldn't scratch the bite, but it feels so good. What can you do to help relieve the itch from a mosquito bite? Here are 7 + remedies you can make from ingredients in your house.
Advertisement
1. Basil. More than just an herb to cook with, Healthline says basil contains eugenol, which may help stop the itch. Place 1/2 ounce of dried basil into 2 cups of boiling water. Let it steep. Once the water is cool, use a rag to spread the liquid on the bites.
2. Tea bag. Green tea is full of all kinds of things that are good for your body. It may also be an effective itch-fighter as well. Everyday health says to place a wet green tea bag in the refrigerator to get it cold. Once it's cold, hold it on the bite.
3. Baking soda paste. The Mayo Clinic recommends making a paste from baking soda and water. Dab the paste on the bites and allow it to dry before rinsing it off.
4. Oatmeal paste. Known for being soothing to skin irritations, oatmeal can be used to stop itchy mosquito bites. Healthline says to grind the oatmeal fine and add just enough water to make a paste. Apply the paste to the bites and let it sit for 10 minutes before cleaning it off.
5. Honey. If you have some honey in the house, everyday health recommends dabbing the honey on the mosquito bites.
6. Thyme. Anther fairly common herb, thyme can be used either fresh or dry, according to Healthline. If you have fresh thyme, mince the leaves and put them on the bites for 10 minutes. If you only have dried thyme, place some in a pan of boiling water and let it steep until the water cools. Apply the cooled liquid to your bites with a soft cloth.
7. Aloe vera gel. Aloe vera is great for all kinds of skin problems. To maximize the relief, everyday health recommends having your bottle of aloe gel in the refrigerator. That way, you get the benefit of the cold along with the aloe.
8. Cold. One of the first things you should do after getting bitten is place a cold compress on the bite. Reader's Digest says ice will also work. The cold numbs the nerve endings, keeping the bite from itching as much.
Advertisement
Although mosquitoes can't be altogether avoided, have these items in your arsenal to fight back when the time comes.
Resources
RemedyDaily.com does not give medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.