Insect Bites -
Insect Bites 2008
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Written by Frank Mangano
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Monday, 14 April 2008 01:04 |
Many different insects bite and leave marks when they land on you, insects that include mosquitoes, no-see-ums, ticks, fleas, ants and gnats to name a few of the most common. Although most of the time none of these insect bites are severe or dangerous in any way, they can be incredibly irritating after the fact. Tick bites on the other hand can spread diseases throughout your body such as babesiosis, Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Of course in some countries throughout the world a simple mosquito bite can transmit deadly diseases such as Malaria and Yellow Fever.
Although spiders are not necessarily considered to be insects, the Black Widow and Brown Recluse are two of the most poisonous spider bites that can be quite serious and painful as well. Bees and hornets are insects that generally sting in self-defense and die after they have stung you. These stings are harmless but can be painful and itchy during the healing process. Many people in the USA today are allergic to bee or hornet stings and should always carry their medications with them to prevent severe symptoms and reactions to these common insect bites. If you are located in a more exotic location of the country scorpion bites may be something to be concerned about as well. Scorpions are incredibly poisonous and these types of bites can be deadly if not cared for properly and immediately after the bite has occurred. No matter what type of insect bite you are dealing with it is important to understand that there are natural remedies and treatments that have been used effectively for centuries and contain no dangerous side effects like prescription medications.
- Bromelain is a natural supplement used to reduce inflammation, swelling and pain around the insect bite. When taken in dosages of 400-500 mg, 3 times daily you can expect top results.
- Grape seed extract can be taken 75 mg daily and is used as an effective anti-inflammatory and powerful antioxidant to remove toxins from your body before they circulate.
- Vitamin C with bioflavonoids can be taken 5,000-20,000 mg daily, divided throughout the day and is used as an anti-inflammatory as well. Vitamin C has the power to remove toxins from the body and can be taken in collaboration with any of the above suggested supplements as well.
- Calendula ointment is an excellent herbal remedy that is used as an insect repellent. More natural insect repellents include Goldenseal and tea tree oil.
- For tick bites, try to remove the tick as soon as possible to reduce the risk of disease contraction while inside your skin.
- Calamine lotion is a great herb that helps relieve the itching after the bite has taken place and it is trying to heal.
- For mosquito, ant or chigger (mite) bites, wash the area with soap and water, then apply a paste made of water and baking soda. If the bite is on your limbs, elevate it to decrease swelling.
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No matter which natural supplement you are interested in trying, remember that the dosages listed above are targeted towards adults so be sure to visit a naturopathic professional to learn how to use these same methods for children and how to combine several for maximum results.
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