Natural First Aid for Insect Bites

In the summer and fall months, insect bites are prevalent. Read on to discover natural first aid for insect bites.

Natural First Aid for Insect Bites - Ant Bites

For ant bites, the most effective natural first aid for these insect bites is to treat the affected area with apple cider vinegar, a slice of cucumber or the juice of a cucumber, or a plantain leaf poultice. To neutralize the acid in the ant bite, you can also make a paste of baking soda and apple cider vinegar and apply directly to the bite for topical natural first aid for these insect bites.

Natural First Aid for Insect Bites - Caterpillar Bites

If you find a hairy caterpillar on your skin, brush it off gently starting at the tail and moving toward the head. If you do otherwise, some of the hairs may stay behind on your skin and can cause irritation. For the most effective natural first aid for these insect bites, apply lavender essential oil or Echinacea tincture directly to caterpillar bites. You can also take Echinacea tincture internally. Take one dropper full three to four times daily for internal natural first aid for these insect bites.

Natural First Aid for Insect Bites - Mosquito Bites

For mosquito bites, the most effective natural first aid for these insect bites is to apply mud, lemon juice or apple cider vinegar directly to the bite. If none of these are on hand, you can use witch hazel, peppermint, a plantain leaf poultice, lavender essential oil or tea tree essential oil. Apply any of these substances directly to the bite for natural first aid to relieve and promote healing of these insect bites.

Natural First Aid for Insect Bites - Tick Bites

If the tick is attached to the skin, it's very important to remove the tick without leaving the head behind. Use sterile tweezers to remove the tick as close to the head as you can. Then promptly remove any part of the tick left behind in the skin.

After you've removed the tick from the skin, the most effective natural first aid for these insect bites is to wash the area with soap and water. Dry thoroughly and then apply a few drops of Echinacea tincture directly to the wound for external natural first aid.

Another crucial element of natural first aid for these insect bites is to take one dropper full of Echinacea tincture three to four times daily after removing the tick. This will help boost your immune system and fight off any infections.

WARNING:

If symptoms of headache, itching, rash or fever persist for more than a week after being bitten by a tick, visit a doctor immediately as these may be symptoms of Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Natural First Aid for Insect Bites - General Care

If you have many itchy bites, add one cup of apple cider vinegar to a warm bath for natural first aid that will soothe the wounds. You may also try using ½ cup sea salt or one cup cornstarch in a warm bath. These natural first aid options are suitable to help relieve pain and itchiness of all insect bites.

If any unusual symptoms persist for more than a few days after incurring insect bites and applying natural first aid, consult a physician immediately.