Insect Bites

Biting insects including wasps and hornets are plentiful this year and can take some of the joy out of summer for some of us. Spit poultices from Plantain or Fireweed leaves can be a life saving tool. When neither one is available you could simply use mud (add water to dirt to make a paste). The mud applied to a nasty insect bite right after I got stung while filming the DVD, brought instant relief (see picture). It also helped to avert an allergic reaction. See more on the DVD at www.herbalinstructions.com.

Carrying a small spray bottle with (apple cider) vinegar while out and about may also prove to be helpful. When applied directly to a mosquito bite it will prevent the swelling and itchiness. I have no personal experience how it might work for other insect bites, but it would definitely be worth a try.

FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Some people respond with an over-sensitivity to even minor mosquito bites. If this is your situation, I suggest you look at your diet and eliminate all foods you suspect you are allergic/sensitive to. In my practice I have seen people who, almost miraculously, have stopped reacting to mosquito bites after changing their diet, for example taking out all gluten. Prior to this they were not able to leave the house without certain medications because even a simple mosquito bite triggered an enormous reaction such as huge swelling that would last for days. This makes total sense to me.

Happy herballing and green blessings,

Gudrun