If you are Bitten…

[olhillbilly]

From the backwoods to the back yard, plantain (Plantago, various species) is one of the best herbs to treat bug bites.

You probably won't need to plant this home remedy because it is a very common weed, often growing in compacted soil along sidewalks and driveways.
To use the plant as first aid for a mosquito bite, crush a few leaves and rub them on the bite.

Some anti-itch drugstore medicines to use include Calamine lotion or cortisone creams. Doctors generally recommend pain relievers, ice packs and meat tenderizer to treat insect bites and stings. Promptly applying a dab of commercial meat tenderizer directly to a sting can neutralize the allergen.

Adopted from: The Green Pharmacy, by James Duke, Ph.D.


Note from me... I use Plantain on all kinds of bites an stings with great results. If you want a pic, I'll post one.

[olhillbilly]

Herbal Insect Repellent

2 1/2 teaspoons total of any combination of the following essential oils (available at health food stores): basil, cedarwood, citronella, juniper, lemon, myrrh, palmarosa, pine, rose geranium and/or rosemary
1 cup 190-proof grain alcohol (available in liquor stores)
Place ingredients in a jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake vigorously. Transfer to small bottles for storage. To use, rub a small amount on any exposed skin (test first to be sure your skin will not be adversely affected by the repellent) or dab it on clothing.

Experiment a little to find which essential oils work best with your body chemistry. If you're lucky, you also will like the way they smell; otherwise, add a few drops of peppermint oil to fine-tune the fragrance.

[skeeter]

Yes, we need a picture Hilly. I am sure I remember what it looks like, but a reminder wouldn't hurt. Going to the mountains soon and need this info.

[olhillbilly]

Skeeter, I've found it in every state I've been in. which aint many.

But you orta be able to find it at TC's place. IF he doesnt use herbicide. It likes damp areas. but I have found it in dry hayfields. When ya do find some. IF its dry, just rinse it under cool water and it'll reconsitute itself. Good to rinse off anyway if its been near toxic stuff like roadways.

I found the pic. Now If I can find the article I saved.