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Soothe Bug Bites with DIY Itch Relief Powder

Soothe Bug Bites with DIY Itch Relief Powder

April 23, 20151418Views

Bug bites are one the most common ailments among campers of all ages, with Calamine lotion serving as one of the most common solutions to the itchiness and sting that comes with them. But if you aren’t keen on carrying around a bottle that has the potential to leak or spill everywhere, there is a smart alternative that is easy and inexpensive to make right at home: DIY itch relief powder.

The primary benefit of using a DIY itch relief powder over the store bought bottle of lotion, besides eliminating the risk of spills, is that you can store it indefinitely without it separating, congealing, or drying out over time. All you need to do to use it is add a little water to a small amount to create a paste and apply wherever it’s needed. You can store this powder in a canning jar, plastic tub, or even a Zip-Lock baggie — as long as the container is airtight and waterproof, you’re good to go!

You’ll need:

  • 1/4 c bentonite clay (available on Amazon and other online stores)
  • 1/4 c baking soda
  • 3 tbsp sea salt

Mix all ingredients well in an airtight, waterproof container by adding together and shaking until  thoroughly blended. When bug bites occur, mix a little water with a spoonful of the powder to make a smooth paste and apply to the affected area. You can also use this DIY itch relief powder on rashes that occur as a result of coming into contact with poison oak or ivy, as the bentonite clay draws out the skin-irritating urushiol found in these plants, and can even act as an effective barrier if applied to the skin beforehand to prevent rashes. Just be sure to apply the paste to rashes with a spatula or other tool to prevent spreading the urushiol to other parts of your body. Works great for sunburns too!

Featured Image from The Nigmatic/Unsplash