House flies: How to repel insects from the home

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As summer has officially started, people are not the only ones heading outside to enjoy the warm weather and sunshine – mosquitoes and other bugs are also out and about. There are a number of easily made, natural home remedies you can use to help soothe itchy bites.

Honey

Honey is a natural antiseptic and antibacterial ingredient so will go a long way helping bites to heal and stop infection.

Spreading some honey on bites and wiping away after about half an hour will help soothe the itch and reduce inflammation.

However, don’t put honey on your bites while you’re still outside – this will attract mosquitoes and other pests to you.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal has been known to help soothe conditions like chickenpox, sunburn and dry skin, and it works just as well for pesky insect bites.

Make a paste by adding water with oatmeal and apply to the affected area, and wash off with warm water after 15 minutes.

Alternatively, if you’ve really been had by the bugs, you can make an oatmeal bath but mixing a box with warm water and bathing for 15 minutes.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera is known for being one of the most effective remedies for sunburn – but it can also be used to calm bites.

Aloe vera has excellent anti-inflammatory properties for wounded skin, helping your bites to go down quicker than if you used nothing at all.

The cool feeling can also help with the itchiness.

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Minced garlic

Garlic has wound healing and anti-viral properties and is used in creams designed to soothe itching.

Instead of running to the pharmacist for a costly cream, you can make your own easily at home.

Mince garlic and mix in with coconut oil – apply to the affected area for a few minutes, the clean.

What not to use

There are a few no-go ways to soothe your itchy bug bites.

Do not use baking soda, lemon, toothpaste, or vinegar on your bites.

These can all cause additional irritation, including burning and dry skin.

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