Got a Bite or Sting? Apply These Natural Remedies

I’m a big believer in natural remedies and treatment in healing and preventing minor everyday injuries. During the summertime there are hundreds of insects flying around looking for some blood to suck, wasp, bees, etc. are out on the hunt. But not only do you have to be aware of those annoying insects there are dogs roaming the streets, some have broken their chains others are strays. You’re taking your daily jog and out jumps unfriendly fido ready to take a bite out of whoever runs across their territory. Those bites and stings are painful, however, there are some natural remedies you can use that will offer fast relief from the pain and swelling.

The first natural remedy is to use plantain. Never heard of it? Well, plantain is a very common plant or herb loaded with tannins. Tannins are chemicals that act as an astringent that tightens the skin so that irritation and swelling can be reduced and the infection is forced out of the skin. Plantain grows just about everywhere, especially where there is a lot of heavy moisture and shade. How do you apply the plantain? You can chew it. Yes, that’s right. If you have a bee or mosquito sting and there is some plantain available, grab some leaves and rinse them off, then put them in your mouth and chew it. You can also put the plantain right on the sting for instant relief. You can also rub the leaves until the juice comes out, and then apply it directly on your sting.

For a dog bite that is not serious you can use plantain also. You first need to scrub the area of the bite with soap and water, then put the plantain in a blender with a few drops of hot water and mix it together. Put the mixture directly on the bite, and then put a wrap over it and a heating pad over the wrap so it can stay in place. Apply the heat for 20-30 minutes. Change the application three or four times a day. A few other natural remedies to apply on a bite or sting are to use goldenseal by mixing it with water and making a paste substance. Apply the paste on the wound. To remove toxins after a dog bite heals, use bentonite clay. Apply the extract from the olive plant to prevent infections from bites and stings. It also helps to reduce swelling. Use homeopathy for bee stings. Lastly this may sound a little strange and disgusting, but urine helps to stop the pain and heal jellyfish stings. The acidic components of urine immediately stop the venom of jellyfish into your system providing fast relief. You apply it just like when you go to the doctor and urinate in a cup, you can also use a sponge. Apply it directly on the wound and watch it work instantly. I know it is not very appealing but it works.

If a dog bites you and it breaks the skin you should make sure the dog doesn’t have rabies. If bitten by a raccoon, squirrel, or other wild animal, always assume the animal has rabies and seek medical attention immediately. If the bite becomes infected seek medical attention. Most bites and stings can be treated at home using the natural remedies I mentioned above. However, if you are stung or bitten and you break out in hives, feel faint, nauseous, or your mouth or tongue becomes swollen, you probably have had an allergic reaction and should seek medical attention immediately.