For the first time in 20 years, a resurgence of malaria over the past two months in the United States has people reminded of the dangers tiny pests like ticks and mosquitoes can present. Herbal therapy educator Erica Kuo explained to the Epoch Times “Health 1+1” program that aromatic herbs can help prevent insect bites, sharing how to make homemade mosquito repellent and first-aid essential oils.
2 Hydrosols to Repel Insects and Relieve Itch
During summer, mosquito bites can cause redness, swelling, and itching that persists throughout the day and disrupts sleep at night, leaving one tired at work. If you scratch these, bacteria can enter your skin and cause cellulitis. Therefore, Ms. Kuo emphasized that relieving itching and reducing swelling immediately after a mosquito bite is important.Some people crush Coleus (or Plectranthus) amboinicus, a relative of oregano, and apply it directly to the skin to relieve itching. However, Ms. Kuo emphasized that this is not advisable because Coleus amboinicus contains strong essential oil components that can be too harsh for direct application on wounded skin, resulting in severe skin ulcers.
