Nine ways to tackle heatwave bug bites and stings in Sussex

Outdoor experts at GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk have revealed the nine best home remedies for dealing with insect wounds.

A spokesperson for GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk said: “It’s important to keep in mind that insects will only bite when agitated or when they feel threatened, so it’s best to remain calm and still.

“But if you are bitten or stung this summer it’s good to have some foolproof home remedies to hand to soothe painful injuries.

“Always remember that if the pain and swelling doesn’t let up and the wound is showing signs of infection, see a medical professional as soon as possible.”

Here are the nine best home remedies to relieve stings and bites, according to GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk:

1. Ice

Cold helps to diminish the itch of bites and stings, reduces inflammation and swelling and eases pain.

People can place crushed ice into a sandwich bag, wrap it in a towel and place it over the affected area.

2. Aloe Vera Gel

This gel is naturally soothing and moisturising to skin, and it also holds anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

People are advised to put a small amount of it onto the bite or sting to help reduce the level of swelling and stop the skin from getting infected.

3. Raw Honey

Honey helps combat inflammation and can reduce swelling, and has antibacterial qualities that can prevent infection and increase the speed of healing. Spread a small amount on the sting indoors so it does not attract wasps and bees.

4. Witch Hazel

This is anti-inflammatory and can reduce itching. Dab a small amount onto the sore area using a cotton swab and rinse off with water after a few minutes.

5. Sugar

This is best to use once the sting is almost healed because it will make any scarring almost vanish.

Dab water on the affected area, cover with sugar and leave for a long period of time but wash it off before sleeping.

6. Peppermint Oil

This is one of the best essential oils for dealing with painful stings and bites, said GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk, as the cooling effect calms the area and reduces itchiness. It can also improve blood circulation and remove toxins from the area.

Apply the oil to the area and massage it in gently to encourage blood flow.

7. Aspirin

This gets ride of the toxins in the affected area, reduces the level of inflammation and itching, and heals the bite faster.

Crush two tablets with water to make a paste and apply this to the area for a couple of minutes.

8. Papaya

Tthis fruit contains enzymes that can reduce the level of inflammation and counteract the effect of the venom.

Place a fresh, moist slice over the bitten skin and replace it when it has dried out.

9. Natural Clay

A GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk spokesperson said: “For an almost instant relief from pain and itchiness, just mix some clay with water to produce a fine paste and cover the bites with this mixture.”

Visit www.gardenbuildingsdirect.co.uk.