Insect bites and stings can really take the fun out of summer. Between pain, swelling, itching, and redness, it is no wonder that there is a plethora of strategies to avoid them and solutions to relieve pesky symptoms.

Prevention

There are several techniques that experts recommend to prevent bug bites and stings before they happen. Using insect repellent is the most common suggestion, and now you can find a range of options, even one with natural ingredients. It is also a good idea to cover as much skin as possible, especially when outdoors at peak times of dusk and dawn. Staying away from standing water, trees, and high grass can help you steer clear of bugs altogether. Lastly, avoid perfumes with floral or woodsy scents and shower promptly after sweating, as mosquitoes are attracted to the enzymes in perspiration.

Unfortunately, these methods are not foolproof or always appropriate for the weather. So, when bug bites and stings do happen, home remedies can help.

Symptom Relief

When you get stung or bitten, the first step is to remove any stingers and gently wash the area with soap and water.

Then, you can start finding relief for your symptoms.

If you are experiencing inflammation, a cool rag or ice pack can help. It reduces swelling and numbs the skin to any pain you may be feeling. Witch hazel, thanks to its tannins, can also reduce swelling and soothe symptoms by easing burning or irritation when applied to the skin.

Itching is common with insect bites and stings. One solution is an oatmeal bath, since oatmeal contains special compounds that have anti-irritant qualities, easing the itchy feeling. Apple cider vinegar can also alleviate that nagging itch. It reduces stinging and burning sensations, minimizes the need to itch, and acts as a natural disinfectant. Applying a paste made from baking soda and water is another easy remedy to suppress the itch.

Homeopathy

If home remedies aren’t readily available or are not working for you, try a Boiron homeopathic medicine. Ledum palustre relieves insect bites or bruising* and is easy to take as the pellets melt in the mouth without water. Although it does not act as a repellant, Ledum can be taken the day before a trip, if you know you are headed somewhere buggy, or at times of exposure, like dusk or dawn, to help relieve symptoms from the onset.

Apis mellifica is another homeopathic medicine that can help as it is designed to ease symptoms of bites or stings from mosquitoes, bees, ants, flies, and other common insects. It relieves the pain, itching, and swelling of minor bug bites.* Boiron also offers this summer favorite as the Apis 30C Bonus Pack, which comes with three tubes of the medicine.

Don’t let bites and stings put a stop to summer fun. These at-home remedies and homeopathic medicines can ensure your summer stays sensational and symptom-free.

For help finding the right medicine for your symptoms, check out Boiron’s Medicine Finder.

*Claims based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. Not FDA evaluated.