Anyone else feel the same way? If you or a loved one is being tormented by these annoying insects, then this blog is for you.
Unfortunately mosquitos are a part of life in South Florida. But that doesn’t mean we have to give up. There are some natural things we can do to avoid getting bit and home remedies that will help.
For starters, prevention is the best protection. Keep any door and windows without screens closed, especially near the bedroom. Try spraying your sheets with lavender or even sleep under a mosquito net at night if you get desperate. Avoid going out at dusk, and if you do, cover up in light colored clothing, even if it’s for a minute. There are some sprays (such as citronella and lemongrass) that can be used on a patio one hour before if you will be out in the evening. It’s also helpful to spray by the door. Fans are also useful. Natural repellent plants, such as planting lemongrass, lavender and rosemary are great. Rosemary is very hearty and grows easily in a pot or directly in the ground. You can ruffle the branches to release the scent. Rosemary can also be put on the skin. Sometimes when I go into the yard, I rub my hands on the rosemary bush then wipe my hands on exposed skin. Please do a test spot first though to make sure your skin isn’t too sensitive to the fragrance.
Many people have become hesitant to applying classic insect repellent. They would like a more natural ingredient. So, aside from rosemary, you can also wear lavender scented oils or lotions as a baseline. These tend to wear off after an hour or two so make sure to reapply. There are a host of natural repellents. Most have lemongrass, citronella and other herbs. Again, test these on a small area of skin first. Just because they are natural doesn’t mean you can’t be allergic. Remember, poison ivy is “natural.”
If you do get a mosquito bite, there is an easy home treatment. As soon as possible, apply a dab of water to the area. Then pour a mound of table salt onto the area and rub it into the skin firmly. Make sure the salt is wet. Cover the salt packed area with tape and leave it on at least an hour. The swelling and itchy will be reduced. After this, a steroid cream may be applied.
If you are headed on a camping trip or area where mosquito-borne illnesses are prevalent, then be sure and bring the real-deal insect repellent with DEET. Hopefully, some of these tips will help. Enjoy the rest of our summer!
