Last updated on July 22nd, 2022 at 04:53 pm

It’s officially summer and for many that means lots of time spent outdoors, camping, hiking, fishing or just relaxing. Summer is also prime time for creepy, crawly critters but there are several things you can do to protect yourself and your family members from these pesky insects.

• Repel them.  Mosquitos are often active between dawn and dusk, so wearing repellent during this time can help keep you protected. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests using an EPA-registered insect repellent.
• Dress appropriately. During the summer months we often wear clothes with shorter sleeves, dresses and shorts to help keep cool. However, leaving the arms and legs bare can make us vulnerable to bug bites. Wearing light, breathable fabrics that cover the arms and legs can offer some protection.
• Avoid them. Mosquitos enjoy being in warm, moist environments. If you’re particularly concerned about getting bitten, avoid being near open bodies of water during peak hours.
• Relieve bites homeopathically. No matter how cautious we are, bug bites can happen. Homeopathic single medicines like Ledum palustre and Apis mellifica can help relieve tell-tale symptoms of bug bites. If your skin is itchy and swollen from a mosquito bite, try Ledum for relief.* And if you’ve gotten stung by a wasp or chigger, Apis can help relieve the swelling, itching and burning.* A topical preparation like the non-greasy, non-sticky Calendula Gel can also soothe insect bites.

To help you find other homeopathic first aid essentials this summer and beyond, explore our Boiron Medicine Finder app.

*These “Uses” have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.