How to Naturally Prevent & Treat Mosquito Bites

Summertime means more time spent outdoors, and alas, an increased risk for contact with mosquitoes. Fortunately, there are many natural tricks to keep the bites at bay that don't involve putting harmful chemicals on your skin, and should preventative methods fail, there are also many herbal remedies that can help take the itch out.

Preventing Mosquito Bites

Citronella, lavender, peppermint and lemon

Cut back on alcohol

Wear bright color clothing. Color choices like beige, brown and black instinctively attract mosquitos because it resembles other mammals in the wild.

Treating Mosquito Bites

Should your preventative methods fail, the following herbal remedies can help ease the discomfort caused by those pesky mosquito bites.

Lavender Oil - One of the most popular essential oils for its calming scent, lavender is as antimicrobial as it is soothing.

Peppermint Oil - the cooling sensation can block other sensations, such as itching, providing temporary relief. Either the essential oil or crushed fresh leaves will do.

Basil - Basil contains camphor and thymol, two compounds that can relieve itching. Either crush up some fresh herb and apply directly to the bite, or buy the essential oil.

Cold Therapy - place a simple ice pack on the bite or press a spoon that has been placed in the freezer for a more targeted cold to help relieve swelling and itching.