A couple of weeks ago we discussed natural mosquito repellants you can make at home, but even the most vigilant citronella users will likely end up with a few bug bites by the end of the summer. Bug bites can be itchy, distracting, and just plain irritating, but here are four natural remedies to soothe your skin. And you probably already have them around the house!

1. Honey. This natural sweetener has compounds that suppress inflammatory enzymes on the molecular level for reduced swelling, redness, and itch. Manuka honey is particularly good for dermatology use. 
2. Aloe. This wonder plant is good for so much more than just sunburns. In addition to a comfortable cooling sensation, this anti-inflammatory plant helps reduce itching and flaky dry skin. 
3. Chamomile. This sleepy-time tea has been used to treat wounds and irritations for centuries. Like the other remedies, this is another great anti-inflammation plant. Just be sure not to put hot tea bags on your bites as it will irritate them further. 
4. Oatmeal. This breakfast superfood is known for its skin moisturizing properties. These also help with reducing skin dryness, scaling, roughness, and itch intensity. Oats also have avenanthramides and ferulic acid work to calm irritation, while antioxidants like vitamin E help protect the skin from free radicals and reduce the appearance of scars. 

Bug bites are a sure sign summertime is in full swing, but don’t let those itchy bumps keep you up at night or distract you at work. Treat those pesky bites with one of these remedies for immediate relief!