How to Relieve Itching from Insect Bites with Simple Folk Remedies

In the absence of special remedies, itching caused by insect bites can be alleviated with a mild solution of baking soda or vinegar, said Galina Tereshchenko, a dermatologist at the Moscow Department of Dermatovenereology and Cosmetology, who has been awarded the title of "Moscow Doctor."

"An insect bite causes inflammation as well as allergic reactions (in the latter case, if a person has an allergy predisposition). To relieve itching, it is better to treat the bite area with an antiseptic or apply a special anti-itch remedy. If special remedies are not available, you can overcome the itching with so-called folk remedies—using mild solutions of vinegar or soda. The main thing in this case is not to use vinegar or soda at high concentrations to avoid dermatitis; usually, one teaspoon of food soda or three percent vinegar is used. If there are many bites and these remedies do not help, it is better to take an antihistamine,” Tereshchenko stated.

The doctor also warned against scratching the bite areas, as an infection can enter the wound, increasing the risk of skin diseases like impetigo. “Therefore, despite the strong urge to scratch the bitten area, it is better not to do it but to use immediate anti-itch remedies,” emphasized the dermatologist.