Bugbites.

Date: Wed, 13 Mar 1996 07:17:10 -0500
Sender: HERB.TREARNPC.EGE.EDU.TR
From: Paul Bernier <pbernier.ESCAPE.COM>
Subject: Re: mosquito & flea bites

>I am new to this list and was wondering if anyone might be able to help me? I have just recently moved to an area near a lagoon where there are many mosquitos and fleas. I am being attacked by these creatures every night. I usually wake up with about 10 new bites every morning. I have tried rubbing lavendar oil on the bites, which helps with itching. But, I am looking for something (natural) to keep them away. Either in the form of a room spray or to put on my body. Any suggestions?

I know there are some herbs you can grow that are supposed to be good for repelling mosquitoes, and will try to find them. But for personal protection, try taking 50 (or even 100) mg of Vitamin B-1. It changed me from being a human pin cushion to relatively bite-free (and I lived in the Philippines for ten years, where we had mosquitoes year-round, and no screens.


From: Peter Gail <PETERGAIL.AOL.COM>

The juice of jewelweed (Impatiens capensis, I. pallida) is also a good antidote for mosquito bites, bee stings, etc which have already happened -- it won't prevent them, but it will take the pain and swelling away. This is the same plant which is so effective against poison ivy, oak and sumac.


From: Howie Brounstein <howieb.TELEPORT.COM>
Subject: mosquito bites

>I usually wake up with about 10 new bites every morning. I have tried rubbing lavendar oil on the bites, which helps with itching.

I use the dreaded Ma Huang, in tincture form, for mosquito bites. I find Ephedra excellent as an antihistamine for allergic reactions, and mosquito bites fit the description. Just dab some tincture on the bites. The astringency of the herb and the alcohol helps, too. Internal use could be indicated if you are covered with bites. This works with bee stings also, but it not always as effective as with mosquito bites.


From: "(R.Lynn Shumake PD)" <RxHERBinfo.AOL.COM>
Subject: Re: mosquito bites

One source of relief for insect stings is to locate some plantain, chew small piece of leaf in mouth, then place on affected area; generally counteracts sting within short time; effective "antidote" to nettle's sting.