Introduction: Why Mosquito Bites Itch So Much
Everyone is aware of mosquito bites and how they itch so badly that one needs to constantly scratch the area until it turns red. While scratching is unbearable, the aftereffects can turn your skin worse than ever. But do you know why mosquito bites hurt so badly at first? Well, as per studies, mosquitoes directly attack your skin, and their saliva contains compounds that work against your immune system. In all this time, the immune system provokes a preventive measure called histamine, which triggers intense swelling, redness, and itchiness in the affected area.
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Once you scratch the area of a mosquito bite, it feels like a relief. However, it is not a permanent solution, and that’s why we look for natural remedies for mosquito bites. One such remedy, which is very common and popular these days, is essential oils. Essential oils, particularly tea tree oil is one of the most effective oils for mosquito bites and itchiness. Let’s discover more about tea tree oil, its properties, benefits, and effects on your skin.
What Is Tea Tree Oil?
Tea tree essential oil, as you all know, is derived from the leaves of Melaleuca Alternifolia, which is native to the areas of Australia and the Middle East. Known for its rich aroma and properties, the essential oil works like magic for several skin issues. Additionally, it is great to treat mosquito bites as it soothes the skin without being harsh.
Here are some key properties of tea tree essential oil that make it a must-have in your daily routine.
- Rich in antibacterial properties that reduce bacterial infection in the skin.
- The potent anti-inflammatory properties tackle mosquito bites and the inflammation associated with them.
- The antifungal properties of tea tree oil protect and shield the skin.
- As per studies, the essential oil also possesses antiseptic properties that further safeguard the skin from harmful bacteria.
- All these major qualities of the tea tree oil battle the itchiness, redness, inflammation, scratching sensation, and other harsh effects associated with mosquito bites.
How Tea Tree Oil Helps Relieve Mosquito Bites?
Tea tree oil is a potent formula of active compounds, but do you know how it helps to calm mosquito bites and the infection associated with them? Here’s how it does it effortlessly.
A. Battles Bacteria And Infection
Tea tree oil is a keeper oil as it significantly battles bacterial infection in the skin. It keeps away bacteria and fungal infections from the skin, creating a clean canvas. The essential oil diminishes the chances of infection in the skin and prevents bacteria from entering it.
B. Fights Inflammation
Mosquito bites usually come with inflammation that can trigger redness, intense swelling, and a heating effect. Thankfully, the anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil reduce it to a great extent. But one must always use it after proper dilution to avoid the burning sensation.
C. Calms Itchy Sensation
Mosquito bites, especially during summer, can lead to an itchy sensation in the skin that increases the urge to scratch. But here is what that works. Tea tree oil has soothing properties that pacify the skin temperature and calm the skin by offering a cooling effect.
D. Promotes The Skin Healing Process
If the skin is in trauma, the healing process needs a kick. Tea tree essential oil works beautifully here. It naturally calms the skin and promotes the healing process by fading the effects of mosquitoes.
Benefits Of Using Tea Tree Oil On Mosquito Bites
The properties of tea tree essential oil are clear, but do you know how it benefits your skin? Here’s how it works to magically calm down the effects of tea tree oil.
- Tea tree essential oil for mosquito bites is no myth. It is ideal for preventing fungal infections in the skin. It has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that effectively battle the effects of mosquito bites.
- Did you know tea tree essential oil is packed with cooling effects? It offers a calming effect to the skin that reduces the discomfort linked with mosquito bites.
- The essential oil eliminates the redness, inflammation, and itching sensation without any toxic chemicals on the skin.
- Mosquito bites often lead to swelling in the skin, and what better than using tea tree essential oil to cure it? It works best to tackle redness and swelling due to mosquito bites.
- Tea tree essential oil can be combined with other natural ingredients or carrier oils like extra virgin coconut oil, calendula oil, and even aloe vera gel.
Now that you know how tea tree oil has a beneficial effect on your skin, it’s time to see how to use it safely to reduce the effects of mosquito bites.
How To Use Tea Tree Oil Safely For Mosquito Bites?
As per studies and top experts, tea tree essential oil is potent and concentrated. So, never use it undiluted. Mix it with a carrier oil before you use it on the skin. Here are some tips to keep in mind while using tea tree oil safely for the skin.
- Firstly, dilute the tea tree oil and do not use it in its concentrated form.
- Tea tree essential oil needs a proper dilution, so the ratio goes like one drop of tea tree oil with one teaspoon of any carrier oil.
- When you apply the essential oil to the skin, clean it with water.
- After that, apply the diluted concoction and let it sit on the skin.
- Follow this remedy two times a day, and avoid your face.
DIY Tea Tree Oil Remedies For Bite Relief
The safe dilution guide is mentioned above, but all of this matters only when you know the effective DIY remedies for mosquito bites. So, here are the top ones.
Recipe 1- Tea Tree Oil And Aloe Cooling Gel
- For this remedy, you simply need a tablespoon of aloe vera gel in a bowl.
- To this mixture, add two drops of tea tree oil.
- Mix it really well and gently apply it to the affected area, mainly on the hands and legs.
- You can also apply it as a pre-skin treatment before the actual mosquito bite to prevent it.
- This remedy works wonders for extremely itchy and irritated skin.
Recipe 2- Calming Roll-On Treatment
- For this remedy, you need one tablespoon of coconut oil and two drops of tea tree essential oil.
- Mix this combination really well and transfer it to a roll on a bottle.
- Apply it whenever the skin feels itchy or inflamed.
- This remedy is pocket-friendly and is ideal for travel purposes.
Recipe 3- Calendula Oil treatment
- For this combination, combine tea tree essential oil with calendula oil.
- Just a drop of tea tree oil with one teaspoon of calendula oil works best.
Precautions And Possible Side Effects
- Essential oils are intended for external use only and should not be ingested.
- Store essential oils out of reach of children and store them away from other products.
- Some essential oils can be fatal to pets; therefore, always research before using them.
- Essential oils must ALWAYS be diluted before applying to the skin as they are highly concentrated and can cause irritation. You can dilute them with a carrier oil of your choice, and the maximum concentration of Essential oils should be 3-4%.
- Always do a patch test before applying to larger areas of the skin.
- It is unclear what effects essential oils have on pregnant and breastfeeding women. While some consider them safe, many doctors advise pregnant women to avoid the use of fragrance oils.
- Always buy pure essential oils and do not buy fake counterparts, as they won’t contain the same therapeutic benefits.
When To Avoid Tea Tree Oil And See A Doctor
Tea tree essential oil is a must-have in everyone’s routine. However, here are some cases that should completely avoid it and see a doctor in case the condition becomes worse. Go to a doctor when –
- The skin becomes intensely swollen and itchy.
- You feel inflammation and pain all around.
- The skin near the mosquito bite can develop into an infection, characterized by the formation of pus, red marks, or fever.
- If the mosquito has bitten you around the lips or eyes.
- If you notice any adverse allergic reaction after a mosquito bite, particularly intense swelling, patchy skin, or difficulty in breathing.
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Conclusion
The mosquito bites in the skin might look like nothing. But do you know it’s, after effects can be long-lasting and very uncomfortable. So do not take it for granted and always use natural remedies like essential oils for mosquito bites. Tea tree oil is truly one of its kind, which has natural properties, is quite affordable, and works magically.
FAQs
1. Does tea tree oil help stop itching?
Yes, tea tree oil helps to reduce and eliminate itching forever. But do not use it directly on the skin, as it might do more harm than good. So always dilute it or use it with a cooling aloe vera gel to instantly calm itchiness and inflammation.
2. Should I use tea tree oil on an insect bite?
Yes, you can use it, but with proper precautions. Tea tree essential oil is packed with antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, which help to clear off infections associated with insect bites.
