What Is the Best Home Remedy for Itchy Insect Bites?

When warmer weather comes around again, many of us are excited to go out and enjoy sunny activities. But, unfortunately, bugs have the same idea. Insects are a regular part of summer, and that can also mean itchy and swollen bites.

You might experience itchiness or swelling hours after being outside. We often don’t even realize we’ve been bitten until a little mark shows up and causes discomfort.

Thankfully, you don’t have to suffer through the symptoms of bug bites. And since we’re all about natural solutions are Nature’s Ideal, we know some of the best home remedies for itchy insect bites.

Let’s dive in.

What Is the Best Home Remedy for Insect Bites?

While there are many helpful ways to handle itchy insect bites, the number one option is colloidal oatmeal. Through beneficial nutrients like proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals, colloidal oatmeal soothes skin itching and irritation for significant relief.

Colloidal oatmeal has been a go-to natural ingredient for itchy skin for hundreds of years. It’s made by finely grinding up the oat grain. You can use regular oatmeal and grind it up in a coffee grinder, blender, or food processor. Just make sure the result is a very fine powder.

Colloidal oatmeal the active ingredient in All Terrain Bite Soother Spray, along with other nourishing ingredients we’ll talk about below, such as eucalyptus oil and shea butter. If you don’t want to worry about concocting your own natural solution at home, this spray is a life- and time-saver.

There’s also Ditch the Itch Cream for those who prefer a cream over a spray.

While that’s the best remedy for itchy bites, other options have proven effective for many people.

Remove the Stinger and Wash the Area

We’re mostly talking about bug bites, but if an insect stung you, you might need to remove the stinger. According to MedlinePlus, you should use a straight-edged object like a butter knife or credit card instead of tweezers. Scrape the object across the stinger until it comes out.

Then, wash the stung area with soap and water thoroughly. The same goes for a bug bite.

Cool Compress

Cold compresses or ice packs are some of the easiest (and cheapest) home remedies for itchy insect bites.

Wrap ice in the washcloth or run a cloth under cold water and squeeze out excess water. You can also use a storebought compress or ice pack.

Hold the cold pack or rag on the bite area for 10 minutes. Repeat daily. Do not leave the ice directly on the skin, as that can hurt the skin. Always wrap the ice in something first.

Ice can help reduce inflammation and decrease itchiness by numbing the skin.

Antihistamine Alternatives

Doctors often recommend over-the-counter antihistamines to reduce itching. But if you prefer a natural option, Similasan Itch Relief Roll-On is a homeopathic formula with Similasan bee and wild rosemary actives to help with minor itching and irritation.

Baking Soda Paste

Since baking soda is alkaline, it helps neutralize an infected bite’s pH, reducing itching.

Take a little baking soda and add a few drops of water. Mix until it forms a paste. If you added too much water, simply add more baking soda until you get the right texture. Apply directly to the bite and let it dry.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil might act as a natural antihistamine while being helpful for bacteria after a bug bite.

Make sure you use a carrier oil when using any essential oil for topical use. Do not apply tea tree oil directly to the skin. Once mixed with a carrier oil, you can apply the tea tree oil to the bug bite area.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is a popular remedy for sunburns, but it works for bug bites too! The antiseptic properties plus vitamins and minerals in aloe vera help with itching, swelling, and pain. It can also help with healing.

Toothpaste

Did you know toothpaste can also help fight itchiness from a bug bite? Yep, it’s true.

Menthol from toothpaste is a cooling agent that reduces the itch. And as the toothpaste dries, it can draw venom from a bite wound.

All you need is a dab of toothpaste on the bite site.

Honey

According to research, honey has antibacterial properties and also helps with wound healing and inflammation. Apply some honey to a bug bite for natural soothing and bacteria-fighting.

Basil

Basil is a common remedy to stop bug bites from itching naturally. It probably contains something called eugenol, which is a chemical compound that can relieve itchiness.

You can simply crush up a few fresh basil leaves and rub them on the bite area.

Freshly-Cut Onion

Onions are helpful for mosquito bites and other bug encounters. A raw onion’s juices help reduce swelling and itchiness. Slice a fresh onion and apply it to the area.

Garlic

Garlic acts similarly to onion for bites. Apply sliced or minced garlic to the bite location for some natural relief!

Tea Bags

If you already drink tea regularly, just save the next used bag in the fridge. Apply the cold bag to your bug bite. The cold compress will address the itching, while the tea compounds will help with inflammation and healing.

Don’t Forget Natural Insect Repellant

It’s best to prevent insect bites from happening in the first place with repellant. However, if you’re worried about harmful chemicals, there are natural options available. For example, this Herbal Armor Natural Insect Repellant is 100% DEET-free, all-natural, and clinically proven to keep bugs away for over two hours.

Fight bug bite discomfort the natural way this year. Shop Nature’s Ideal for all of your summer needs without leaving your house!