No More Itch Stick for Bug Bite Relief
Summertime is here in the Northern Hemisphere and with the warm weather comes those unwanted pesky bugs that seem to bother my children the most. The itchiness and irritation that comes from bug bites can be incredibly annoying and bothersome. Mosquito saliva triggers histamine products which causes itchiness and swelling Ever notice when you scratch a mosquito bit it itches more? This is because with each scratch, the skin becomes more inflamed which cause even more of an itchy sensation. Itching repeatedly can break open the skin which can lead to an infection. I love to utilize the soothing properties of essential oils to provide relief from itchy bug bites, reduce inflammation, decrease the sensation to scratch and promote faster healing.
Essential oils have long been used as a natural remedy for bug bite relief. Their potent properties can help alleviate the itching, swelling, and discomfort caused by insect bites. Tea tree oil, with its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic qualities, is often a top choice for bug bite relief. Lavender oil, known for its soothing effects, can also provide relief by reducing inflammation and calming the skin. Peppermint oil, with its cooling sensation, can bring instant relief to itchy bug bites. Helichrysum is known for its skin healing properties. When applied topically, these essential oils can offer a safer and gentler alternative to conventional bug bite treatments.
My tried and true recipe for soothing bug bites is my “No more Itch Stick”. I store this salve in lip balm tubes for easy travel and application, however, it can be made and stored in any container. The combination of lavender, helichrysum and peppermint essential oil work well together to help soothe the itchiness, reduce inflammation and accelerate skin healing.
No More Itch Stick
Ingredients
- 1/2 oz beeswax
- 1 oz coconut oil
- 1/2 oz jojoba oil
- 7 drops Lavender essential oil
- 7 drops Helichrysum essential oil
- 6 drops Peppermint essential oil
- 3 drops Vitamin E oil
- 3- 1oz push up lip balm style tubes
Instructions
- Melt beeswax and coconut oil in double boiler. Melt slowly and do not let boil.
- Once liquified add jojoba oil and vitamin E oil. Stir to mix.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly for 1 minute before adding essential oils.
- Stir in essential oils and pour into lip balm tubes.
- Let lip balm tubes cool for 4 hours before using.
- Apply to areas of bug bites, post sun exposure or areas on the body needed extra moisture and healing.
Notes
Dilution is 2%.
**Safe for ages 3 and up. For children younger than 3 years old, replace peppermint essential oil with Roman Chamomile.
Want to learn more about how essential oils can help support health and healing? Check out my new book, Science of Essentials, The Essential Guide for Using Aromatherapy to Promote Health and Healing.
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