None of us likes mosquito bites, but we become
their regular victims as soon as the summer embarks. Despite
the irritating itching that follows their bites, mosquitoes
bring about other health concerns as well, as they can spread
diseases and viruses such as the Zika virus.

As soon as they bite us, mosquitoes draw out
blood and at the same time, inject some of their saliva, that
contains proteins and anticoagulants. These proteins trigger
our immune system since they are foreign substances, and our
body starts releasing histamine in order to neutralize
them. This compound helps the white
blood cells to reach the affected area, but it also causes the
swelling, inflammation, and itchiness.

Moreover, as explained by Debra Sullivan,
Ph.D., MSN, CNE, COI

“When you scratch a mosquito bite, this
causes the skin to become even more inflamed. Since
inflammation causes your skin to itch, you can get into a cycle
where scratching will cause even more of an itchy sensation. In
addition, by continuing to scratch you run the risk of breaking
the skin and causing an infection, leading to even more of an
itch.”

In the middle of the summer season, and the
many mosquitoes that have probably already got you, we decided
to share some simple ways that will help you stop the itching
due to their bites and finally realize that these little pests
are less powerful than you think.

What’s best, most of the things you’ll need
are already around your home, so if you cannot avoid their
bites, you can definitely relieve their annoying
consequences.

1. Scotch Tape

Cover up the bite with a piece of scotch tape,
or a band-aid, as soon as possible, and the loss of air supply
will prevent the itching. Yet, do not leave it on the skin for
longer than a day, as the skin needs to breathe.

2. Diluted Minced
Garlic

Mince some garlic and dilute it with coconut
oil. The strong anti-viral properties of garlic will help you
treat the itching.

3. Honey

Apply some honey on the bite to heal it as
quickly as possible, due to the powerful antiseptic and
anti-inflammatory properties of honey.

4. Basil Rub

Boil 2 cups of water and add 1/2 an ounce of
dried basil leaves. When cool, soak a washcloth in the rub and
apply it on the bites. You can also rub fresh basil leaves on
the affected area.

5. Ice

Apply ice to the bites to reduce the swelling
and the blood flow, and stop the itching.

6. Oatmeal Bath

Add a bit of oatmeal to your bath and enjoy
the soothing experience. For even better effects, you can add
some honey to the water.

7. Hot Spoon Trick

All you have to do is to put a teaspoon under
warm water to heat it up, and then place it on the bite. The
warming sensation will break down the protein injected with the
bite and thus treat the itching.

8. Baking Soda

Mix some baking soda with a few drops of water
and apply the paste directly on the mosquito bite. This will
neutralize the itching by balancing the pH levels of the
skin.

9. Aloe Vera

The Aloe Vera gel has potent anti-inflammatory
and cooling qualities that will relieve the itching due to
mosquito bites.

10. Cold Tea Bag

Tea bags will draw out the toxins from the
body, so put a used tea bag on the bite and it will reduce the
residual itch.

Do not doubt to try these simple tips next
time you are a victim of mosquitoes, as they will definitely
save the rest of the summer!

Source: http://healthyclick.club