Christmas is well and truly over and spring is coming. The minute the Christmas ads end we have holiday ads appear on the TV all day long. I think this happens on Boxing day!
So peoples attention turns to holidays, I love deciding where to go when I can afford it, I try to make for a more exotic destination like Africa or America.
The world is so small now as compared to thirty years ago, we can get to anywhere relatively quickly and it doesn’t cost the earth.
But I am allergic to insect bites. All my holidays abroad and I mean all, have included a visit to the pharmacy or local hospital!
My foot was once like an elephant’s foot and the skin most like it. That holiday in Tuscany had to come to an abrupt end as I could not walk, so we drove home early.
I have since learnt a lot regarding how to avoid bites and once I have them, how to deal with them, they have stopped my holidays being a nightmare so I feel more confident these days whilst packing my case, here are some tips.
1) I am now an expert and use citronella on my pulse points and around the windows of my hotel room the minute I land abroad. With citronella I can sunbathe and not worry about the smell being to strong.
2) I don’t use perfume at all whilst abroad.
3) Salt is an excellent remedy for insect bites. Use a teaspoon of salt and mix it with a small amount of water to make a paste, then spread it all over the required area.
4) Diluted lime juice is also effective for relieving the discomfort of insect and mosquito bites, just apply the solution directly to your skin.
5) To avoid bites, if you are out in the open all day or for a long period of time, it is beneficial to purchase an insect repellent spray, again this is used by spraying it directly onto your skin.
6) Apple cider vinegar can neutralise the venom of a bite.
7) Honey is also a great home remedy, it has a natural antibacterial effect
Before using any of the above home remedies, make sure any visible sting is removed from the skin and that you always have piriton handy. It takes the worst out of the situation if administered early. I carry piriton in my bag all the time.
Happy holidaying
Elisa
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