BugBite Season Is Here!

[luckitri]

We can't see 'em but they sure are getting us. We think they are mosquitos. Want to know natural remedies for getting the itch/sting out.

I know there was a thread on it last year but I can't seem to find it.

(Our state predicts high levels of West Nile Virus - I think spraying was not in their budget this year.)

[Veganforlife]

Jewell weed is the best stuff around. I keep a "tincture" on hand for when I'm working outside. There's also soap and salve. That takes the "itch" out.

[exurb]

Jewell is supposed to be even good for curing poison ivy! I used to use calamine lotion many years ago, but I have no idea how natural that is.

dear luckitri, you are scaring me that you are even getting bitten. My mom's friend got West Nile big time last year, seven months in hospital, had to re-learn how to walk, very bad shape and there seem to be long lasting effects.

So we all need to take not getting bitten very seriously! There are herbal bug sprays, covering up, not going out at the right time, etc. For those who like to use the nasty chemical stuff for extra prevention (which may be recommended for those with immune issues or things that put them at greater effect if they get west nile, such as kidney ailments), it's recommended to shower or bathe as soon as possible after you come inside to wash the stuff off, not to go to bed with it on, not to use on small kids, etc.

[luckitri]

VFL, do you buy the tincture of it?

We called them "poppers" and had great fun luring unsuspecting city kids to the forest of what you call jewell weed and suddenly showering them with blasts of pods from all around.

It grew near a swamp and we did put the juice from the stems on poison ivy.

There is no where near in this desert for me to get it. I remember seeing it years ago during a mountain hike but for me to get there now would be near miraculous.

Exurb, exactly what you state is why I have such mixed feelings regarding vaccinations and spraying.

[Veganforlife]

Actually my cousin gave me this one year - the soap, the tincture and the salve. She ordered it on-line from someone. But I'm thinking HFS's more then likely carry it or a product similar.
Yep, we called this plants "touch me nots" because they do "pop" when brushed...very cool way of spreading their seeds...
Maybe you can find it at your local HFS or on-line?