Beat the Mozzies!

Well they tell me that we don't get mosquitoes in Scotland (only midges) but I'm not convinced after receiving a dozen bites one evening whilst on slug patrol in the garden! Having quite a strong and itchy reaction to them I decided to research and try out some of the best hints and tips the internet has to offer (along with my own experience as an aromatherapist).

Recovery

It's the reaction of your body's own histamine levels that causes the incredible itch from a bite. They say taking anti-histamine tablets (hayfever suffers know what I'm talking about) can help to reduce swelling and the itch. I've used this before myself in the past, but not sure it's something I would want to rely on for long term. Tea Tree aromatherapy oil is also a good alternative. Most oils can't be applied neat on the skin except for this one (and lavender). Using a cotton bud - apply tea tree only to the inflamed skin (not the healthy skin) and leave it to work. Be aware that you need to consult a qualified aromatherapist if you wish to use this on children/are pregnant or have any other serious health conditions to ensure it isn't contraindicated.

Here are some of the more 'alternative' approaches to relief for bites

• heat - most people tend to go for ice or something cool but they say that if you use direct heat on the area of the bite it helps the redistribution of the histamine. Either running the area in the shower/under the tap (as hot as you can bear although don't scald yourself!) or even using a hair dryer! I used both and although it makes it sting like mad for a few seconds - afterwards the bites did feel better for about 6 hours.
• toothpaste - rubbing a small spot of this into the area can apparently help soothe
• Calamine Lotion - some people swear by this but I find it more itchy once it dries in
• Aloe Vera - a gel of this can be good and it's really good for cuts etc anyway

Prevention Better than Cure

Of course not being bitten is the best idea! Citronella Aromatherapy Oil is good for helping to keep beasties away but check with an Aromatherapist first - it's quite a strong oil to use and defiantly not one to use if you are in the sun as it can cause a skin reaction. Using it in a diffuser close by can help keep the area clear of bites.

Avons 'Skin so Soft' is another popular choice - it is never advertised as such (probably as it isn't medically proven to do this) but it's very effective - even for those pesky Scottish midges! I laughed when visiting the Buddhist Monastery in the Scottish borders - not only did they sell this (amongst Tibetan bells and gongs etc) but they assured the user it was the best midgie deterrent!

Lavender oil is said to be a good deterrent and it is kinder to the skin (though it shouldn't be used neat in this case but applied with a base oil - again check with an aromatherapist to ensure it would be safe for you to use.

Garlic and/or Whisky is said to be good at deterring mosquitoes - not sure about either of those (eating and drinking of course - not applying!) but I'm willing to give it a go.

Wearing long clothes when the sun goes down to ensure your skin is covered can be the best bet if you don't want any bites. Or only go on holiday to cold countries!

Aromatherapy help

If you aren't sure where to go for some of these oils, it might be worth asking a local aromatherapist to make one up for you and advise if it's safe for you/your family to use. Most qualified therapists are happy to help and will make a small charge for providing you with the oils. To find qualified therapists - please visit Therapies United