Natural Remedies for Bug Bites

In line with this month’s travel theme and the peak of summer I’d like to share with you some information about bug bites.  While I’m not aware of anyone who enjoys being bitten by bugs, people’s reactions to bug bites range from the mild annoyance to downright panic.   

Potential health effects, prevention and treatment of mosquito bites

The most common bug bite we see here in Calgary is the mosquito bite.  Typically, this causes a small, red, itchy swelling that lasts a few days.  For the most part, while highly annoying, mosquito bites do not cause serious health concerns.  There are a few exceptions to this, when a mosquito is carrying a blood-borne disease.  Examples of this are malaria and West Nile virus.  While malaria is not typically a concern within Calgary (although if you are travelling abroad it may be – ask us about this), West Nile virus has received plenty of publicity in recent years.  

Natural Prevention tips for mosquito bites

Your best bet for warding off mosquitoes is to wear clothing that fully covers your arms and legs during dawn and dusk, use a natural insect repellent, and minimize standing bodies of water around your house.  Certain homeopathics, such as Staphysagria, can be taken before going outdoors to minimize mosquito bites.  If you do get a mosquito bite avoid scratching it as it makes the itch worse and could cause scarring or infection.  Lavender essential oil is amazing for getting rid of the itch of mosquito bites.  Just apply a drop directly on the bite and the itch is relieved immediately. 

Natural Prevention tips for tick bites

Another bug bite receiving a lot of attention recently is tick bites.  One of the main concerns with tick bites in North America is Lyme disease, which can lead to chronic neurological illness.  Ticks are generally found in wooded areas, so it may be a good idea to wear clothing that covers your arms and legs when you’re out hiking in the woods.  If you notice a bite that looks like a bull’s eye see your health care professional right away.  Studies have found that Rose geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) essential oil is an effective tick repellent.  Applying rose geranium oil before heading out into the great outdoors can help reduce your chance of encountering a tick (and you’ll smell great!)

First Aid Kit essentials when travelling

During summer, or travels to warmer climates where insects are present, I’d recommend travelling with the homeopathics Apis and Ledum.  Ledum is considered the go-to remedy for insect bites in general.  Apis, is also great for insect bites, particularly when they are very red and swollen.  You can take these internally and you can apply Dapis gel (a gel contain Ledum and Apis) directly to the area.  If you have a known allergy to certain insect bites it is always advisable to carry antihistamines and an Epi-pen when going to areas where you may be bit.