What do u do for bug bites?

[Neera]

Our bug repellent from last year didn't work this year and dd got bit at a park concert. What do you use on bites? Also need recommendations for an effective bug repellent.

Thanks.

[crunchy_mommy]

Spit. Hahaa I know that sounds gross but I swear it takes the itch away. Preferrably your own spit We don't use bug repellant but I have heard... eucalptus oil?? I think... repels bugs.

[simplemama32]

We use aloe vera and Burt's Bees ResQ ointment. For insect repellent, we occasionally use the Burts Bees bug spray, too...it seems to work okay, but it's kind of greasy, IMO.

Here are some other good ideas that I keep meaning to try out, but haven't had a chance yet: http://www.5orangepotatoes.com/blog/...oor-challenge/

[Lady Mayapple]

With the reemergence of Dengue Fever in the US, coupled with us being out in the woods a lot, we use Cutter. It's not natural I know, but my kids get bitten like crazy if we use anything else. I just don't want to take a chance. Even though the Dengue outbreak is limited to the southern states, it will spread if it hasn't already. A lot of people don't realize they have it, as most just get flu-like symptoms and pass it off as the flu. As for the bites, we've found rubbing the bite area with witch hazel works well and stops the bite from swelling.

[ellairiesmom]

we just picked up california baby's bug spray for an upcoming vacation. heard good things from a friend who tried it & we like their other products.

as for bites-this is weird, but ever since we were kids, my aunt told us to use your fingernail to put an x in the bite?? it has worked for me in the past but not always so i don't know if it's just coincidence.

[Neera]

Thanks. We do love Burts Bees diaper rash cream so, we might give that a shot. I did try the spit but, the swelling is still there although she is not complaining as much. We also have California Baby from last yr but, wasn't sure if it'll work on her now since Califronia Baby sounded like it might be for babies. She was more baby last year and is more pre-kish this year if that makes any sense. I really should check the bottle to find out but used the other one (the one that didn't work) with cedar instead. I also looked for eucalyptus oil in the local supermarket. They had a few essential oils but not eucalyptus.

[Artichokie]

Our whole family uses California Baby bug lotion.

As for bites after then occur? Just try not to scratch them.

[Astraia]

Avon Family bug spray... no idea whats in it, but it works, isn't greasy, and doesn't make me feel sick to my stomach (some smells are awful for me).

For after the bite, I've been using English Plantain (the weed). DH says it's all in my head, but he also refuses to even TRY it and he scratches but DD and I don't, so there :P

[Dahlea]

We use California baby. For bites I give ledum palustre (homeopathic remedy) and rub Burt bees outdoor bug relief on it
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[Neera]

Originally Posted by ellairiesmom

as for bites-this is weird, but ever since we were kids, my aunt told us to use your fingernail to put an x in the bite?? it has worked for me in the past but not always so i don't know if it's just coincidence.

It could be it helps let the toxins out?? I have done that for ant bites and I remember some water seeping out... just vaguely remember.

[JessieBird]

For bites, we do nothing. Less than nothing if possible - anything to avoid drawing attention to the bite. Luckily, DS must not be too sensitive because I've rarely seen him scratch unless I make a big deal about the bug on him or bite mark I see. If a mosquito does dig into him, I try to shoo it away without him even noticing just so as not to draw attention. People hate me for saying this but I think the itch/sting of bug bites is 75% psychosomatic (my very sensitive DH wants to kill me every time I tell him just not to think about the itch and it'll go away!!!).

For repellent, I make my own and it works really well. Fill a travel size hair spray bottle with water and add a few drops of lemongrass essential oil and a few drops of citronella essential oil. I think this is basically what is in the Burts Bees stuff. Safe for babies and works great even on my DH who is one of those people who attracts every mosquito in a 50 mile radius.

[dakotablue]

After the bite try vinegar. It really really works for me. almost like magic.

[Neera]

Thanks for the great tips. Going to try the vinegar. Dh also wants to get witch hazel. And the home-made one sounds really good too.

[pantrygirl]

we use badger balm bug balm and love it.

It comes in this push pop tube. DH hates the smell as it's very strong but it dissipates quickly. TG loves it. Go figure.

If we do get a bug bite, which seems to be only my daughter and myself have the sweet blood, we use Angel Baby Bottom Balm.
I use this stuff for everything from diaper rash, scratches, heat rash, preventing diaper rash and bug balm. I use it on both of us.
It smells nice and the container lasts forever. It's a bit pricey but it lasts a long time and it has many uses.