8 Food-Based Home Remedies for Mosquito Bites

1. Apple Cider Vinegar

Is there anything apple cider vinegar cannot help treat? Long used to aid in gut health, diabetes management, weight loss, and so much more, ACV also helps minimize the effects of mosquito bites by reducing swelling and itching. Its disinfecting properties can also help tackle bacteria that could be present from excessive scratching.

Topical ACV

• Add a drop of ACV to the site of your mosquito bite.
• Rub it in and let it dry.

ACV Bath

• Add two cups of ACV to a tub filled with warm water.
• Soak for up to 20 minutes.

ACV baths are recommended for those with many mosquito bites.

While ACV’s benefits are vast, you could experience further irritation. Stop treatment immediately and opt for a different remedy if ACV causes further issues.

2. Basil

Basil leaves contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the itch and swelling of a mosquito bite. You don’t have to use fresh basil, either. Dried basil from your spice cabinet will provide the same effects with the right preparation.

Dried Basil Rub

• Add a tablespoon of dried basil to 2 cups of boiling water.
• Remove from heat and let the basil steep until the temperature cools.
• Wet a washcloth with the basil water and rub it on your mosquito bites.

Fresh Basil Rub

• Chop your basil leaves or roll them with a rolling pin until they reach a paste-like consistency.
• Rub the leaves on your mosquito bites.

Basil rarely causes skin problems, but avoid this option if you have a basil allergy or notice further irritation.

3. Chamomile

Chamomile has always been a popular plant for health-related remedies as it contains several healing properties. Like basil, chamomile oils target inflammation and help calm the itching sensations that mosquito bites cause.

Chamomile Solution

• Brew some chamomile tea by steeping a bag in hot water.
• Steep the tea for about 30 minutes until the water is cool.
• Remove the bag, squeeze out the excess water, and apply it directly to the bite.
• Leave the bag on your skin for 10 minutes.
• You can apply the bag to other bites if present.
• When finished, place the bag in the refrigerator and use it for additional applications later.

4. Garlic

Garlic is a root vegetable that is rich on so many levels. Bold in fragrance, taste, and medicinal properties, garlic has helped with high blood pressure, circulation issues, rheumatism, arthritis, gout, and so much more. It’s also a perfect option to help alleviate mosquito bites.

Garlic Rub

• Finely mince a clove of garlic.
• Mix the garlic with a dollop of unscented lotion or petroleum jelly.
• Apply the rub to your mosquito bite and let sit for 10 minutes. Wipe the mixture away when done.
• Reapply if irritation continues.

Garlic is strong, and applying it directly to your skin could lead to stinging or burning sensations. Mixing it with a lotion or petroleum jelly will help minimize the garlic’s potency but still provide the healing benefits.

5. Honey

Honey has been a healing remedy for millennia and has been used for relief from various ailments including sore throats, coughs, skin burns, and wounds. In fact, certain kinds of honey, like manuka honey, are known as medicinal honey and offer even stronger benefits.

But whether specifically medicinal or not, honey contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce the symptoms of mosquito bites.

There’s no preparation needed to reap the benefits of honey on your mosquito bite. Simply apply a small bead of honey to the skin and gently rub it in. Leave the honey there for as long as you’d like. Just remember to remove it before going outside or moving around the house to prevent any sticky messes.

6. Oatmeal

Oat seeds come from the cereal grain oat grass and boast high levels of inflammation-reducing antioxidants not present in other grains. Good for the heart, oats help contribute to healthy arteries, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar levels. They’re also beneficial in mitigating the effects of mosquito bites. Create a topical paste or an oatmeal bath to soothe your skin and reduce swelling and itching.

Oatmeal Paste

• Mix equal parts ground oatmeal* and water until you reach a paste-like consistency.
• Place a small amount at the site of the mosquito bite and cover with a cloth.
• Leave for 10 minutes, then remove.
  *You can buy ground oatmeal, blend oats in a small blender, or crush oats with a mortar and pestle.

Oatmeal Bath

• Add a cup of dried oats or ground oats to a tub filled with warm water*.
• Soak in the bath for up to 20 minutes.
  *To avoid clogged drains, tie your oats in cheesecloth or a similar fabric.

Oat baths are ideal if you have many mosquito bites.

7. Onion

Onions and garlic come from the same family and therefore have similar medicinal properties. Also bold in fragrance and flavor, onions can help tackle the irritation caused by mosquito bites. Plus, onions have an antibacterial, antifungal quality, so they can help lower the risk of infection, too.

Like honey, no preparation is needed to benefit from an onion. Simply cut a slice and apply it directly to the bite. Let it sit for a few minutes. Rinse your skin thoroughly after.

8. Thyme

People have utilized thyme as a remedy for respiratory issues, hair loss, memory loss, and skin problems for centuries. Part of thyme’s benefits can be attributed to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, making it a natural option to treat mosquito bites.

Thyme Paste

• Finely chop fresh thyme leaves until it reaches a paste-like consistency.
• Rub directly on the mosquito bite and leave for 10 minutes.
• Rinse the leaves when you are ready.

Thyme Rub

• Boil a cup of water and add several sprigs of thyme.
• Remove from heat and let the sprigs steep until cool.
• Wet a washcloth with the liquid and place it onto the skin.
• Leave the cloth for a few minutes, then remove.

Choose Bizzy Bee Exterminators to Eradicate Mosquitoes from Your Yard All Summer Long

While at-home remedies can treat your mosquito bites, there is one way to avoid getting bitten at home throughout the summer: mosquito treatment from Bizzy Bee Exterminators! Our mosquito control services significantly reduce the mosquito count in your yard, allowing you to enjoy your time outside without the threat of painful, frustrating bites.

Call us to schedule mosquito control at your home today: 1-800-273-4958