What Helps Against Mosquito Bites?

Summertime is mosquito season: from June onwards, the little pests can hardly be stopped. Here you can find out how to protect yourself and what helps against mosquito bites.

Mosquitoes are particularly aggressive in summer. With their distinct sense of smell they follow the scent trail of their victims. They are especially attracted by the lactic acid in sweat and human blood. If the mosquito has stung its victim, it first injects a little saliva into the bite to prevent the blood from clotting.

What danger is posed by mosquitoes?

Since the saliva of the mosquito also contains allergenic substances, hypersensitive reactions are possible. If acute symptoms such as headaches, nausea, breathing or circulation problems occur after a mosquito bite, you should seek immediate treatment from a dermatologist or allergologist.

How can you protect yourself?

The most effective method is to prevent insect bites – for example, by using nets on windows and patio doors. Some plants such as tomatoes, catnip and scented pelargonium, whose scent mosquitoes do not like at all, are also useful. Better not: use chemical and technical means. According to “Stiftung Warentest“, the toxins can pollute the air in the room, mucous membranes and the environment.

What to do about the mosquito bite?

Mosquito bites are usually less dangerous than the bite of a bee or hornet. To relieve the itching and reddish swelling, you can apply clove oil or arnica tincture to the bite.