Why mosquitoes can’t resist you and the unexpected trick to help soothe bites

Mosquitoes and Australia go together like sun and sunburn but some of us are more susceptible to the nasty biters than others. While some people barely get a bite others become a non-stop buffet for the tiny bloodsuckers.

About 20 per cent of people are particularly irresistible to these critters. From blood type to clothing and even your breathing can impact why mosquitos prefer you to another person.

However, relief is on its way courtesy of two US health coaches and the solution could be lying around your fruit bowl.

Husband and wife duo, Levi and Emily Jensen, have shared a video to their Instagram page showing how a simple fruit peel rubbed over a mosquito bit will relieve itching and heal the wound quicker.

“Did you know that you can use a banana peel to relieve the itch of a mosquito bite?” they explained.

“This is due to the natural oils found in the banana skin.

“Simply rub the banana peel flesh side down against your bite and the itch will gradually fade away.”

 

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A post shared by Levi Jensen (@emilyxlevi)

So far their video has received 49 million views, with many commenting they were impressed by the hack.

“Worth a try,” one wrote.

“I’m in Jamaica and can’t wait to test this in the morning,” another responded.

While a banana peel could serve as an effective remedy for irritating mosquito bites there are a number of other alternatives around the house that can be just as effective.

For other ways to tackle those itchy bites, try these six tips: 

Antihistamine creams
If you want immediate relief reach for the calamine lotion. It’s made of zinc oxide and when the lotion comes in contact with your skin you’ll notice a cooling sensation that provides you with temporary relief from itching and discomfort.

The thing is, calamine lotion doesn’t heal your bites, so you might want to get some hydrocortisone cream or antihistamines that will reduce inflammation, redness and swelling.

However, in the advent you don’t have any of these available to you, and you’re being driven crazy by the itch, try the following home remedies.

Honey
All you need to do is take a small amount of honey and apply it directly to the bite. Honey is said to have antibacterial properties that can help with the prevention of infection.

Toothpaste
All-natural peppermint toothpaste is said to be very effective in giving quick relief from mosquito bites. You want to let the toothpaste dry and leave for as long as possible.

Vinegar
This works best if applied as soon as you notice the itch of a bite. Apply a small amount of vinegar directly to the bite. If you are covered in bites, you might want to run yourself a hot tub and add 2.5 cups of vinegar. Try apple cider vinegar for the best results.

Garlic
If you have a clove of raw garlic rub it on the bite. You might feel a slight burning sensation initially, but after that you should get some relief. The smell of garlic will also help repel the mosquitoes meaning you won’t be attacked.

Baking soda
Mixed with water, a baking soda paste is another simple remedy for the treatment of mosquito bites. Apply the thick paste generously to the affected area. It won’t be too long before your swelling and itching subsides.

Do you have any natural mosquito bite remedies? Share them with us.

IMPORTANT LEGAL INFO This article is of a general nature and FYI only, because it doesn’t take into account your personal health requirements or existing medical conditions. That means it’s not personalised health advice and shouldn’t be relied upon as if it is. Before making a health-related decision, you should work out if the info is appropriate for your situation and get professional medical advice.