Home remedies for swollen and itchy bug bite

Bites and stings from insects are a relatively common phenomenon. They often cause a redness or swelling in the area of the bite or sting. An insect sting at times can cause very serious allergic reactions. Generally insects do not choose to bite or attack us, they do so only when they feel threatened or are provoked. Almost all stings and bites are defensive. An insect may bite simply because it is trying to protect its nest or hive. When an insect bites us, it releases venom into the skin. This venom comprises of proteins and various other substances that can, many a time, cause an allergic reaction. There may also be swelling and redness in the area of the sting or bite. The reaction to an insect bite or sting is variable and largely depends on a several factors.

Almost all stings and bites cause itching, redness, swelling and pain in the affected area. At times if the area is scratched to often, it may cause the skin to break leading to an infection. This infection, if not ignored and not treated adequately can become severe and lead to a condition called cellulitis. Some home remedies to treat bug bites and stings are as follows. Mix together a teaspoon each of lavender oil and vegetable oil. Apply a generous layer of this mixture on the affected area. Doing this 2-3 times a day will help in reducing the swelling and pain if any. Add a cup of oatmeal to warm bath water. This too will help in reducing the swelling as well as any itching sensation. Banana peel is also a very widely used treatment for bug bites. Simply apply the inside portion of the peel on the bite. This will help in gaining relief from the bites.

Make a thick paste using cornstarch and water. Apply a liberal layer of the paste on the affected area and let it dry naturally after which wash it off with cold water. This will help in drawing out any poison that is present in the area of the sting. An alternative to cornstarch would be baking soda. A paste made form baking soda and water can also be applied on to the affected area. Bacon grease if rubbed on the affected area is also known to yield relief from bites. If none of these remedies seem to work and the swelling does not subside, then consulting a physician would be highly recommended.

answered by G M

Insect bites can cause a variety of reactions from itching to swelling. In some extreme cases insect bites also cause nausea, dizziness and fever. If you bug bite is still itching this could be because it still contains the poison from the insect that bit you. It might be advisable to consult a doctor about this.

You can also try some easy home remedies to stop the itching and help the swelling reduce. You can dip a towel in hot water, wring it dry and place it on the bite. Do this as often as you can. You will notice a reduction in the swelling. Ice packs are also effective remedies in case of a swelling. Wrap some ice cubes in a bag and hold this to the bug bite. You can also use cold water by dipping in a soft cloth and using as a compress on the bite.

You should also stop scratching the bite. Pour some powdered oatmeal into a bowl of cold water. Rest the affected part in this water. Make a paste of one tablespoon of baking powder and some water. Apply this to the bug bite. You can also try applying some aloe Vera gel to the bug bite. Honey is another remedy that you can try

answered by G R