Bug Bites & Stings: Natural Herbal Remedies for Soothing Summer Skin

Summer sunshine means more time outdoors—barefoot in the grass, picnics in the park, and evenings under the stars. But with all that beauty comes one not-so-lovely guest: bugs.

From ant bites to bee stings, wasps, mosquitoes, and mystery welts, nature has a way of keeping us on our toes. Luckily, nature also provides the remedies we need to soothe the sting.

Here are some of my favorite herbal allies for bug bites and stings, plus a couple DIY natural repellents to keep the critters away in the first place.

🌿 Herbal Remedies for Bites & Stings

🐝 Plantain Leaf (Plantago major or lanceolata) The bug bite whisperer.

Plantain pulls out venom, calms itching, and reduces inflammation.

How to use:

Chew a clean leaf and place the mash directly on the sting (a “spit poultice”).

Or, make a simple plantain salve (recipe below).

 

🐜 Lavender Essential Oil

Gentle and soothing, lavender eases pain, itching, and swelling.

How to use:

Dab a drop directly onto the bite or dilute with a carrier oil for sensitive skin.

Can also be used in a bug bite roller blend.

 

🐝 Calendula

Calendula is anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and wonderful for skin healing.

How to use:

Infuse calendula in oil and use it in a balm or salve.

Or apply calendula cream directly to affected skin.

🕷️ Bentonite Clay + Apple Cider Vinegar Poultice

Draws out venom and soothes irritation.

How to use:

Mix bentonite clay with a splash of ACV until it’s paste-like.

Apply to the sting, cover with a cloth, and let sit for 15–20 minutes.

 

🦟 Basil Leaf

Contains eugenol, which can ease itching.

How to use:

Crush a fresh leaf and rub directly on the bite.

Or infuse in oil to use in a balm or roller.

🌾 Chamomile Compress

Perfect for sensitive or inflamed skin, especially for kids.

How to use:

Brew a strong chamomile tea, chill it, and soak a cloth in the tea to use as a compress.

Can also use the cooled tea in a spray bottle.

🧴 Bug Bite Soothing Salve Recipe

Ingredients:

1/2 cup olive oil infused with plantain, calendula & chamomile

2 tbsp beeswax

10 drops lavender essential oil

5 drops tea tree oil (optional)

Instructions:

1. Gently melt the beeswax into the herbal oil using a double boiler.

2. Remove from heat, add essential oils, and pour into tins.

3. Let cool before sealing. Use as needed.

 

🛡️ DIY Herbal Bug Repellents

✨ Simple Bug Spray

Ingredients:

1/2 cup witch hazel

1/2 cup water or catnip hydrosol

20 drops citronella oil

10 drops lavender oil

10 drops eucalyptus or lemon balm essential oil

1 tsp vegetable glycerin (optional, helps oils disperse)

 

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a spray bottle.

2. Shake before each use. Spray on exposed skin and clothing.

 

🌿 Herbal Infused Vinegar Repellent

Ingredients:

1 cup apple cider vinegar

A handful each of: rosemary, catnip, peppermint, lemon balm

Mason jar & spray bottle

Instructions:

1. Pack herbs into the jar and cover with vinegar.

2. Steep for 2–3 weeks, shaking daily.

3. Strain and dilute 1:1 with water before use.

4. Optional: Add essential oils for extra punch!

 

Final Thoughts

Nature always offers us balance—sometimes with a sting, but always with healing too. Having a few of these herbal remedies and natural repellents on hand makes outdoor adventures a lot more comfortable (and way less itchy).

Got a favorite herbal remedy for bites or stings? Come share it over on the Wild Root Herbalist Facebook page—I’d love to hear what works for you!