Insect bites are caused when agitated or threatened insects seek to defend themselves or when insects attempt to feed on a person. When insects bite, they secrete formic acid which prevents instant blood coagulation, thereby allowing the insect to feed on the victim. This formic acid causes redness, inflammation and itching. Sometimes, insect bites can also cause pain and swelling. The impact of insect bites normally lasts for 3 to 5 days, but in certain cases may last longer, even up to 2 years.
Home Remedies For Insect Bite Relief
There are various methods to cure insect bite swelling. Some insect bite remedies are listed as under:
- You can extract the juice of Plantain leaves and apply it on the area where you have been stung. This will help relieve itching and swelling on the insect-bitten area.
- Mix baking soda in water and apply it on the sting. The alkalinity of baking soda will neutralize the acidity of formic acid released by the insect.
- The application of honey on insect stings also helps reduce swelling and pain.
- You can also apply ice on the stink to relieve inflammation and swelling.
- Dab some alcohol on the insect sting for its cooling effect.
- Rubbing of a banana peel on the insect bite is an excellent remedy to reduce swelling.
Other than these home remedies, there are other insect bite treatments. You can use aromatherapy to treat insect bite rash, irritation, pain and swelling. The specific essential oils that help to reduce insect bite swelling are:
- You can use a citrus oil like lemon essential oil mixed with honey and apply it on and around the insect bite to alleviate swelling and pain.
- Peppermint essential oil is known for its cooling effects. When applied on insect bite, it reduces inflammation, thereby averting scratching as well as swelling.
- Tea tree oil is highly effective against insect bites. It is a potent antiseptic, which serves to disinfect the insect sting, thereby reducing swelling, pain and inflammation. You can also use a blend of tea tree and rosemary essential oils to relieve swelling caused by insect bites.
- You can also use German Chamomile essential oil for its anti-inflammatory action.
- Application of lavender essential oil is also recommended to cure insect bites. You can mix it with vegetable oil and apply on the afflicted area to reduce swelling and itching.
You are advised to consult your aromatherapy specialist before you use essential oils to treat afflictions caused by insect bite.
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