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No one likes bug bites or stings, especially the itchy ones that quickly become inflamed in the summer heat. But what can be done to treat these often painful injuries? Apple cider vinegar is a natural fermented liquid that acts as an antiseptic due to high levels of natural acids and enzymes. These natural components not only help to deter unwanted bug bites but also help to stop any further infection due to the powerful antibacterial properties of this age old elixir.

What types of bugs should we watch out for?

Insect stings

Here in the UK we have a number of common insects that are known to sting. These include wasps, bees and hornets. These critters cause us pain by injecting venom into our skin. Some people are allergic to this venom and medical treatment must be sought if stung.

Insect bites

Unlike stings, insect bites do not involve any type of venom but are more prone to infection due to bacteria present in the insects mouth. Common biting insects in the UK include: midges, gnats, mosquitoes, flies, fleas, mites, ticks and bedbugs.

How does apple cider vinegar help?

Apple cider vinegar can be used to soothe and ease the pain that accompanies being bitten or stung by an insect as well as disinfecting the inflamed area around the bite. The potent enzymes and antibacterial properties also help to speed healing whilst removing the risk of further infection from outside contaminants.

Treatment One - The Hot Compress.

A hot compress is an excellent treatment for both bites and stings:

First thing to do is warm some raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar in a pan. Be sure to only heat to a lukewarm temperature as overheating is known to destroy the beneficial enzymes found in the vinegar. Next we need to soak our cloth, any cloth will do, however it is very important to make sure it is clean before use. Once your cloth is soaked in warm ACV it's now time to apply the compress to the affected area. Allow the compress to sit in place for around 10 minutes, during this time it will cool naturally. This process can be repeated twice a day until the infection and associated pain subsides.

Treatment Two - On the Bite:

This is one of the most simple and effective ways to use ACV to treat bug bites and stings. Applying ACV every hour or so using a cotton pad has been shown to reduce the itching and inflammation associated with bites and stings.

For this treatment we are going to make a one part ACV to one part water mixture. Using a cotton pad, apply some of the apple cider vinegar mixture to the affected area. Repeat this as often as you like throughout the day. Regular application of ACV helps to speed up recovery times.

What type of apple cider vinegar do I need?

This is extremely important as some forms of ACV will not possess the required antibacterial properties to properly treat your sting or bite. When shopping for your bottle of apple cider vinegar look out for 'raw, unfiltered ACV containing the mother.'

How to Get Rid of Fleas, Gnats and Fruit Flies with Apple Cider Vinegar:

References:

Insect Bites and Stings http://www.patient.co.uk/health/insect-bites-and-stings-leaflet How to Stop Mosquito Bites from Itching http://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Mosquito-Bites-from-Itching 6 Home Remedies For Honey Bee Sting http://www.hiveandhoneyapiary.com/Remedies-For-Bee-Sting.html

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