Trusted Home Remedies For Bug Bites and Insect Stings

When it comes to getting an insect bite, most of them can be safely treated at home.

If you are allergic to bites and/or stings, you should seek professional medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can include, but are not limited to the following: shortness of breath, wheezing, tightness in the chest, chest pain, dizziness and/or difficulty swallowing, talking or breathing,

You should seek medical attention if any signs of infection are present, such as pus, oozing fluids, redness or the area is warm or hot to the touch.

If swelling is involved, try using cool compresses or ice packs. After the first 24 hours, you can try warm compresses to help alleviate the swelling.

If you are not allergic to bites, you can try one of these home remedies to help relieve the itching and pain.

Homemade Paste Remedies:

You can try making a paste by adding one of the below items with just a little bit of water. Dab the paste onto the bite and let it dry.

baking soda
meat tenderizer (containing the ingredient Papain)
mud
table salt
antacid tablet (like Tums)

Non-Paste Remedies:

If using a homemade paste isn't your cup of tea, you can try one of these following ideas. Just dab or roll it directly onto the affected area.

underarm deodorant
mouthwash with alcohol
tooth paste (not gel or whiteners)
honey

OTC (Over The Counter) Remedies:

Preparation H
Hydrocortisone Cream
Liquid Benadryl (dab directly onto the area)
Benadryl Anti-Itch Cream
Nupercainal Cream
Calamine Lotion

Prevention Tips:

To help prevent getting bitten, you can try an insect repellent.

If you are looking for a more natural way of repelling them, try incorporating a lot of raw onions or cooked garlic into your daily diet. When going outdoors, avoid wearing brightly colored clothing or smelly perfumes and scented hair products. All of these things attract the insects to you.