Summer brings out bugs in throngs – mosquitos, bees, and wasps are everywhere! Mosquitos are possibly the most pesky and abundant bug of the summer, and are especially prevalent in areas surrounding bodies of water with plenty of grass and other low-growing plant life. Dawn and dusk are their favorite times of day. While commercial mosquito repellants are effective, they contain potentially harmful ingredients such as DEET, a type of pesticide. Try some of the following to naturally repel mosquitos:
- Remove any standing water around your home where mosquitos can breed.
- Wear loose, light-colored clothing whenever possible.
- Use a natural repellant containing ingredients such as citronella, lemongrass, basil, eucalyptus, and peppermint essential oils. You can also buy these essential oils separately and dab a small amount on the inside of your wrists, ankles, and back of your neck.
If you do get bitten, avoid scratching. Scratching releases chemical messengers including histamine that actually make you more itchy!
- Run an ice cube over the bites or use cool compresses.
- Try an oatmeal soak. Let 2-3 cups of oatmeal steep in a tepid bath and then get in.
- Dab on a cotton ball soaked in apple cider vinegar.
Bee and wasp stings can be very painful, and even life-threatening for those with allergies to their venom. Symptoms of mild stings include redness, sharp or stinging pain, itching, and swelling at the site. More severe reactions (anaphylaxis) include swelling of the lips, tongue and mouth, difficulty breathing, nausea and vomiting, lightheadedness, and loss of consciousness. If you experience any of these serious symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
Try some of these ideas to avoid getting stung:
- Cover up food and drinks when dining outdoors.
- Avoid wearing clothes that are brightly colored or have a floral pattern.
- Use caution when mowing the lawn and gardening to avoid disturbing a nest.
- If you see bees or wasps flying around, calmly walk away to prevent agitating them.
- If you know you have an allergy to bees or wasps, be sure to carry your EpiPen with you at all times.
If you do get stung, and the bite is mild, some of these tips may help relieve the pain:
- If a wasp stings you, scrape off the stinger as soon as possible using a credit card or other flat surface.
- Use ice or a cool compress.
- If you are stung on your arm or leg, elevate the affected limb to prevent swelling.
- Apply a small amount of lavender essential oil.
- Make a paste with baking soda and a small amount of water. Dab on the bite.
- Some people swear by dabbing a moistened tablet of aspirin over the area!
