It’s almost fall and even though the days are getting cooler and my garden is finally going to sleep, the bugs are still everywhere. So what’s a busy romance writer, who likes to work in her garden, going to do? Make a homemade Bug Bite Remedy. This is an herbal paste concoction found in Sarah Munro’s old box of homemade recipes. Since Sarah is a 17th century historian, as well as the heroine in ONE DARK WISH (the second book in the Deadly Force series), she’s been updating these early colonial recipes and sharing them with all of us. And this one is a favorite because it’s so simple to make and easy to use–and it works! This recipe also uses essential oil and I prefer lavender. But peppermint and frankincense and tea tree oils work as well.
Sarah Munro’s Bug Bite Remedy
- 1 Tablespoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon filtered or distilled water
- 2 drops of essential oil of your choice*
- coconut oil
- 1 drop of essential oil of your choice (optional)*
In a small glass bowl, mix together the first three ingredients. Apply to the bug bite and let dry for at least 15 minutes. The paste will become flaky and fall off. When this happens, add a drop of coconut oil to the affected skin. If you prefer, premix the coconut oil with another drop of essential oil and then add it to your skin. The paste will take away the stinging sensation and the coconut oil will soothe your skin.
*Peppermint, Lavender, Frankincense, Tea Tree, and Melaleuca oils are all good choices for helping alleviate the sting of bug bites.
Important disclaimer about wild plants, foraging, and making herbal remedies:
I am not a medical professional and nothing written on this blog is medical advice. None of my statements have been evaluated by the FDA (I am legally required to give you this disclaimer).
It is important to do your due diligence before foraging, harvesting, and/or consuming any type of medicinal plant.
- If you are taking any medications, talk to your doctor about any potential drug interactions.
- If you are allergic to anything, make sure whatever you are foraging is not in the same family. Example: While dandelions are typically considered safe, those who are allergic to ragweed, latex, daisies, or any other plants in the same or similar families, may not be able to consume dandelion.
Always research potential side effects, dosage recommendations, and how to properly prepare and consume each medicinal plant.
Always make sure you are foraging what you believe to be. Fully prepare and study the anatomy before harvesting wild plants.
Always make sure your kitchen/work area is clean and that all materials are sterilized.
Do not forage plants from areas that have been sprayed within the past 2 years at the very least.
I am not legally or morally responsible for the health of any of my readers. Please do your own research!
