Basil and honey paste can treat insect bites. Here's how
What's the story
Insect bites, while generally harmless, can be incredibly uncomfortable, causing itchiness and swelling.
While there are plenty of over-the-counter options, natural remedies like basil and honey paste have emerged as popular choices due to their effectiveness and convenience.
This article delves into how you can use these common kitchen ingredients to soothe those pesky insect bites.
Basil benefits
The healing properties of basil
Basil is not only delicious in your favorite dishes, but it's also a natural anti-inflammatory that can soothe the swelling and redness caused by insect bites.
The oils in basil leaves (like eugenol) work wonders by calming your skin.
To use basil for bug bites, simply crush fresh leaves into a paste and apply directly to your skin.
Honey healing
Honey: Nature's antiseptic
Honey is a known antiseptic and has antibacterial properties, which can be really helpful when dealing with skin irritations such as mosquito bites.
Simply apply a thin layer of honey to the bite area. This will act as a barrier against infection and also provide some much-needed moisture to the skin, helping it heal faster.
Make sure to use raw, unfiltered honey to get the most benefits.
Paste preparation
Preparing basil and honey paste
Making a basil and honey paste is easy and only requires two ingredients: fresh basil leaves and raw honey.
Simply crush approximately 10 basil leaves into a fine paste using a mortar and pestle or a food processor.
Add two tablespoons of honey and mix until well combined.
Apply this paste directly to the affected area for natural relief.
Application advice
Application tips for best results
To effectively use basil and honey paste on insect bites, start by cleaning the area with soap and water.
Then, apply a thick layer of paste to the bite. Allow it to sit for a minimum of 30 minutes before rinsing with cool water.
You can repeat this process up to three times daily until symptoms subside. Adhering to these steps will optimize the healing benefits of this remedy.
Safety first
Safety considerations
Although basil and honey are typically safe for topical use on insect bites, some people may experience allergic reactions or sensitivities to these substances.
Always conduct a patch test on a small, unaffected area of skin before applying it over a large area or an insect bite.
If you notice any signs of irritation or allergic reaction, stop using it right away.