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As with many things in life, prevention is best. To avoid becoming the next gourmet buffet for the insects, cover up exposed skin in the evening and in areas known for mosquitoes, such as near still water. Certain homeopathic remedies, namely Staphysagria, have been shown to deter mosquito bites. Mozi-Q is a homeopathic product that you take to keep mosquitos at bay. In terms of sprays, an essential oil blend spray is safer than the conventional mosquito repellents containing DEET (and smells much better too!) I like geranium, lavender and citrus. You can make your own spray by adding essential oils to a carrier oil, like jojoba oil, or you can buy one ready to go.
If you missed the prevention phase and are now wondering what to do with the itching welts covering your arms and legs you’re in luck. A couple of drops of lavender essential oil applied directly to the bite takes away the itch and sting immediately. I also like to have Boiron’s Dapis gel on hand to cover larger areas where spot application of lavender oil is impractical. Homeopathic apis can also be used internally for people who react intensely to bites creating large red swellings, like bee stings. If you or your child has a known allergy to bug bites or bee stings, take extra precautions when outdoors and always carry an EpiPen.
Enjoy your summer!
By Dr. Stephanie Andrews, ND