Summer in the northern hemisphere is a special time. For a few short months of the year, we get to shed our coats and sweaters and enjoy some warm weather and sunshine. While the hot temperatures and long days make many of us want to get outside and stay there as much as possible, it comes with one drawback: mosquitos.
For decades many enjoyable camping trips, bonfires, evening jogs, or patio beers have been marred by these pesky insects. They leave itchy, red bumps all over our bodies, and they’re on a relentless search for our blood. But have you ever noticed that some people seem to get bitten more often than others?
Certainly if you are one of those unlucky individuals you are well acquainted with this frustrating phenomenon, but it’s not just pure coincidence. Check out a few things you need to know before you enjoy the summer weather in peace.
Factors that make you attractive to bugs
Here’s why the mosquitoes may be taking an interest in you:
1. You’re pregnant
If you’re pregnant, mosquitos are more likely to make a beeline towards you because your body is producing a larger combination of unique odors that mosquitos like (carbon dioxide, lactic acid, and uric acid) according to WebMD.
2. It’s in your blood (literally)
Mosquitos have their favorite food joints and they happen to be people with Type O blood type. Count yourself lucky if you have Type A blood as mosquitos aren’t as attracted to your blood type, according to the Smithsonian.
3. You’re sweaty and moving
If you’re running around at the family picnic, you’re more likely to attract the attention of mosquitos who are drawn to movement and the lactic acid and sweat your body is producing.
4. You’re wearing perfume/cologne
Mosquitoes are attracted to strong smells like the sweetness of a perfume of cologne.Wash it off before you head outdoors to keep the bugs at bay!
5. You’re overweight
Carbon Dioxide is like candy to mosquitoes. They flock to larger pockets of the gas. If you’re overweight, you’re producing more Carbon Dioxide. (Adults are also more likely to be targeted than kids because they are naturally bigger.)
How to repel mosquitoes
If you want to get rid of mosquitos, try one of these ideas:
1. Plant repellents
Reduce the odds of becoming snack food by keeping bugs away. Plants like Citronella, Mint, Catnip, Marigolds, and Ageratum will help deter the bugs from coming around, according to Rodale’s Organic Life.
2. Try oil
Some oils that may be effective include clove, thyme, celery extract, citronella and oil of eucalyptus (OLE). Keep OLE away from children under 3, according to WebMD.
3. Use a fan
Use a small fan to circulate air in your favorite sitting area. Mosquitos are small guys and trying to fly against the tough breeze of a fan will likely prove to be too much effort. Ceiling fans aren’t as effective as the small oscillating or box fans.
How to treat mosquito bites at home
If you were unable to avoid the mosquitos, you can at least make the bits a little easier to live with. To treat mosquito bites at home try:
1. Honey
Apply a drizzle of honey to your mosquito bite for a little itch relief.
2. Oatmeal paste
Mix equal parts oatmeal and water to create a paste. Apply the paste to your mosquito bite and cover with a washcloth. Hold in place for a few minutes before rinsing, Healthline recommends.
3. Aloe vera
Aloe vera isn’t just great for sunburns, the gel has anti-inflammatory properties which could help reduce the swelling of any mosquito bites.
4. Baking soda
Create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to your itch and let it dry before rinsing away.
References: home.remedydaily.com, secretlifeofmom.com
