Bug bites can be an unwelcome part of enjoying the great outdoors. Whether you’re hiking, gardening, or simply relaxing in your backyard, these tiny pests can cause significant discomfort. Fortunately, with the right strategies and natural remedies, you can both avoid and soothe bug bites effectively.
Linda Johnston of Loving Care Essentials in Port Elgin, Ontario, a proud doTerra representative, shares her expert tips on using essential oils to keep those pesky bugs at bay and to ease the discomfort if they do bite.
How to Avoid Bug Bites
You can avoid bug bites naturally by using essential oils mixed with a carrier oil directly on your skin, or spraying them on your clothing. You can wear protective closing and avoid peak insect activity times (like dawn and dusk), and by keeping your environment clean, even using a diffuser with essentials oils will deter pesky insects.
Use Essential Oil Blends:
- doTerra TerraShield: This powerful blend is specifically formulated to repel insects. Apply it to exposed skin before heading out to enjoy nature.
- Lavender Oil: Known for its calming properties, lavender oil can also deter insects. Use the Lavender Touch Roll On, or mix a few drops of Lavender Oil with a carrier oil and apply to pulse points.
- Basil Oil: With its natural insect-repelling properties, basil oil is a great addition. Diffuse it or apply topically with a carrier oil.
Wear Protective Clothing:
Opt for long sleeves and pants to create a physical barrier against bites.
Choose light-colored clothing, which is less attractive to insects like mosquitoes.
Avoid Peak Insect Activity Times:
Many insects, including mosquitoes, are most active during dawn and dusk. Try to stay indoors during these times if possible.
Keep Your Environment Clean:
Eliminate stagnant water sources around your home, as they can serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Also, try using the doTerra Purify blend in a diffuser to keep the air clean and fresh, helping to deter insects.
How to Soothe Bug Bites
You can soothe bug bits with essential oils like lavender oil, roman chamomile oil, clove oil and basil oil. You can also try a cold compress, and staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet will help your body combat inflammation and will heal faster.
Essential Oils for Relief:
- Lavender Oil: Renowned for its soothing properties, lavender oil can reduce itching and inflammation. Apply a drop directly to the bite.
- Roman Chamomile Oil: With its anti-inflammatory and calming properties, Roman Chamomile oil is perfect. Dilute with a carrier oil and apply to the affected area.
- Clove Oil: Clove oil’s natural analgesic properties can numb the pain of a bug bite. Dilute with a carrier oil and apply a small amount to the bite.
- Basil Oil: Known for reducing itching and swelling, basil oil can be applied in a diluted mixture to the bite.
Cold Compress:
Applying a cold compress to the affected area can reduce swelling and itching. For added relief, you can add a few drops of lavender or chamomile oil to the compress.
Hydration and Nutrition:
Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet helps your body combat inflammation and heal faster. Drink plenty of water and consume foods rich in vitamins and minerals.
Avoid Scratching:
Scratching can worsen the bite and increase the risk of infection. Try to keep your hands away from the affected area.
Over-the-Counter Remedies:
In addition to natural remedies, over-the-counter antihistamines and hydrocortisone creams can provide relief from itching and swelling.
By combining preventive measures with natural remedies, you can effectively avoid bug bites and soothe them if they occur.
Essential oils like doTerra TerraShield, Lavender, Roman Chamomile, Clove, and Basil offer versatile and effective solutions for managing bug bites naturally. Always remember to dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before applying them to the skin and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
“Nature itself is the best physician.” — Hippocrates
