Mosquito bites are often annoying and may even transmit diseases such as West Nile virus, dengue fever and malaria, notes MayoClinic.com. Mosquito bites usually occur in the early morning or at dusk -- the time of day when mosquitoes are most active. Mosquito bites, which are always caused by a female mosquito, may cause several symptoms, including redness and itching. Certain herbal remedies may help treat your mosquito bites, but you should avoid using herbs until you have discussed their appropriateness with your physician.
About Insect Bites
Insect bites, notes the National Health Service of the United Kingdom, may be caused by numerous insects, including mosquitos, midges, fleas, bedbugs and ticks. The saliva that may be released in a mosquito bite can cause several characteristic symptoms, including inflammation, blisters and skin irritation. In rare cases, you may develop a serious reaction to a mosquito bite that causes hives, throat swelling and wheezing. Risk factors that may increase your likelihood of mosquito bites include being male, having type O blood and being overweight.
Useful Herbal Remedies
In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," nutrition researcher and certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch states that several herbs may be helpful in treating or preventing insect bites, including mosquito bites. Apple cider vinegar may help treat skin irritations caused by insect bites, while goldenseal and tea tree oil help repel insects and are soothing when applied to the affected area. Other herbs that may act as counterirritants and mosquito repellants include calendula, cedar, eucalyptus, lobelia and pennyroyal.
Featured Remedy: Calendula
Calendula may be a helpful herbal remedy in the treatment of mosquito bites and other insect bites. Calendula ointment has historically been used to repel mosquitos and help treat skin irritations associated with mosquito bites. Balch notes that calendula decreases inflammation and is soothing to your skin. This herbal remedy may also be used in treating rashes and sunburn. Although calendula ointment has long been used in treating various ailments, this herb may not have been subjected to rigorous scientific study and should always be used with caution.
Additional Information
The most common complications associated with mosquito bites are secondary bacterial infections such as impetigo, cellulitis, folliculitis and lymphadenitis. If you develop a severe reaction to mosquito bites, consult your family doctor as soon as possible to avoid serious health complications. Natural medicine treatments are an often used and relatively safe therapy for mosquito and other insect bites. However, some herbs may cause undesired health side effects, which is an indication to discontinue these herbs immediately.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Mosquito Bites
- National Health Service: Bite, Insect
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
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