10 Best Herbal Teas For Insect Bites

Herbal teas for insect bites are a natural remedy that helps alleviate the discomfort and swelling associated with insect stings and bites.

These teas are made from various herbs, such as plantain, calendula, and chamomile, which possess anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. For example, plantain tea can reduce itching and swelling, while calendula tea promotes wound healing.

Drinking these teas can improve lives by providing a safe and effective solution for individuals who suffer from insect bites, allowing them to return to their daily activities with minimal discomfort.

The following article describes in detail the most important teas for insect bites, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Aloe vera

Aloe vera, also known as aloe, teas helps with insect bites because it contains anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can quickly calm the affected area.

The gel from the aloe vera plant is rich in compounds that reduce redness and swelling, making it an effective natural remedy for insect bites.

By consuming aloe vera tea, the anti-inflammatory compounds are absorbed into the bloodstream, providing relief from itching and discomfort caused by insect bites, promoting a faster recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera teas that help with insect bites.

• Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates help to reduce inflammation and soothe the skin, thereby alleviating the discomfort caused by insect bites.
• Saponins: These natural compounds have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help to calm the affected area, reduce swelling, and prevent infection.
• Glucomannans: These soluble fibers have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects, which help to reduce itching, redness, and swelling caused by insect bites.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make teas for insect bites.

• Leaves: Aloe vera gel: It's the most commonly used part due to its high water content and soothing properties, which help to calm and reduce inflammation from insect bites.
• Leaves: Aloe vera juice: It's a liquid extract from the leaves, rich in vitamins and minerals, which provide anti-inflammatory and antiseptic benefits to treat insect bites.
• Leaves: Aloe vera latex: It's the sap-like substance found within the leaves, containing compounds that can help to reduce swelling and ease itching caused by insect bites.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for insect bites.

1. Harvest 3-4 fresh aloe vera leaves of equal size from a mature plant with thick green skin.
2. Cut the aloe vera leaves into small pieces and soak them in cold water for 2 hours.
3. Blend the soaked aloe vera pieces into a fine pulp using a blender or food processor.
4. Mix the aloe vera pulp with 1 quart of boiling water and let it steep for 10-15 minutes.
5. Strain the aloe vera tea through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a large container.

2. Matricaria chamomilla

Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, teas helps with insect bites because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

The tea's active compounds, such as apigenin and luteolin, have been shown to reduce swelling and pain associated with insect bites. Chamomile's calming effects also help to alleviate the itching and discomfort caused by bites, providing quick relief.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to treat minor skin irritations, making it a popular choice for those looking for a safe and effective solution to soothe insect bites.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla teas that help with insect bites.

• Apigenin: This flavonoid helps with insect bites by reducing inflammation and itching through its anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Matricaria chamomilla flavonoids: These flavonoids also help with insect bites by exhibiting anti-histaminic activity, which can reduce the release of histamine that causes itching and inflammation.
• Matricine: This sesquiterpene lactone helps with insect bites by displaying anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties, which can alleviate itching, redness, and swelling caused by insect bites.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make teas for insect bites.

• Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that help to reduce itching and swelling caused by insect bites.
• Seeds: They are used because they contain apigenin, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antihistamine effects, which can help alleviate symptoms of insect bites.
• Leaves: They are used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and itching associated with insect bites, making them a popular ingredient in herbal teas for bug bite relief.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for insect bites.

1. Gather dried matricaria chamomilla flowers or make your own by drying fresh flowers in a low-temperature oven for 2 hours.
2. Measure out one to two teaspoons of dried flowers for every cup of boiling water needed.
3. Steep the dried flowers in boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes to release their active compounds.
4. Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the flowers.
5. Serve the tea hot or iced and enjoy as a calming beverage.

3. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, teas helps with insect bites because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

The tea's active compounds, including triterpenoids and flavonoids, soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and swelling associated with insect bites. Additionally, calendula's antimicrobial properties help prevent infection and promote the healing of the affected area, making it an effective natural remedy to alleviate discomfort and promote recovery from insect bites.

This natural remedy can provide relief and speed up the healing process.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis teas that help with insect bites.

• Flavonoids: These compounds help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain caused by insect bites, promoting faster healing and soothing of the affected area.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids exhibit anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, which help alleviate itching and redness associated with insect bites, while also inhibiting the release of histamine.
• Triterpenoids: These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help reduce swelling, prevent infection, and accelerate the healing process after an insect bite.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make teas for insect bites.

• Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help soothe and calm irritated skin.
• Flowers: Used for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which provide relief from pain and swelling caused by insect bites.
• Roots: Used for their antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, which help prevent infection and promote wound healing.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for insect bites.

1. Harvest fresh calendula officinalis flowers in the morning when they are at their peak potency.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a single layer at 30 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
3. Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried calendula officinalis flowers for every 250 milliliters of boiling water.
4. Steep the dried flowers in the boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release their properties.
5. Strain the tea and let it cool to room temperature before serving.

4. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, teas helps with insect bites because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

The tea's soothing effects can calm the skin, reducing redness and swelling associated with bites. The antiseptic properties also help to prevent infection by killing bacteria that can enter the bite wound. Additionally, the tea's calming effects can help alleviate the discomfort and itching caused by insect bites, providing relief and promoting a faster recovery.

This makes Lavandula angustifolia tea a popular choice for soothing insect bites naturally.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia teas that help with insect bites.

• Linalool: A terpene compound that has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, helping to reduce swelling and prevent infection at insect bite sites.
• Linalyl acetate: A terpene compound that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antihistaminic effects, which can help alleviate itching, redness, and discomfort associated with insect bites.
• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity of inflammation and alleviate pain caused by insect bites.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make teas for insect bites.

• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and calm the skin.
• Flowers: The flowers are used for their calming and antiseptic effects, which help reduce itching and inflammation caused by insect bites.
• Seeds: The seeds are used due to their antiseptic properties, which help prevent infection and promote healing of the affected area.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for insect bites.

1. Gather fresh or dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in quantities of 1 to 2 teaspoons per 8 oz cup.
2. Heat water to 212 degrees fahrenheit in a teapot or kettle for 5 to 10 minutes.
3. Steep the lavandula angustifolia flowers in the hot water for 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup or teapot.
5. Serve the lavandula angustifolia tea immediately and consume within 30 minutes to 1 hour.

5. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with insect bites because of its anti-inflammatory properties and cooling effect on the skin.

The menthol present in peppermint tea helps to reduce the swelling and itching caused by insect bites, providing quick relief. Additionally, the antibacterial properties of peppermint tea help to prevent infection and promote healing, making it a natural remedy for soothing insect bites and promoting comfort.

This can be especially beneficial for bites that cause discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with insect bites.

• Menthone: Menthone has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and itching caused by insect bites.
• Menthol: Menthol has a cooling effect on the skin, which can help soothe and relieve itching, pain, and discomfort caused by insect bites.
• Cineole: Cineole has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of infection and alleviate symptoms associated with insect bites, such as redness, itching, and swelling.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make teas for insect bites.

• Leaves: Known for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and calm insect bite irritation.
• Stems: Containing menthol and other compounds, which have a cooling effect and can help reduce itching and swelling.
• Roots: Acting as a natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory, helping to prevent infection and reduce the discomfort associated with insect bites.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for insect bites.

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh mentha x piperita leaves in the early morning when the plant is at its peak oil production.
2. Dry the harvested leaves in a single layer at room temperature for 24 to 48 hours to reduce moisture content.
3. Steep 1 teaspoon of dried mentha x piperita leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release oils.
4. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove solids and enjoy immediately.
5. Store any leftover tea in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours to preserve its flavor and aroma.

6. Melissa officinalis

Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, teas helps with insect bites because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

The tea is known to soothe itchy skin and reduce swelling caused by bites and stings. The menthol and terpenoids present in lemon balm have a cooling effect on the skin, providing relief from the discomfort of insect bites.

Additionally, the antimicrobial properties of lemon balm help prevent infection and promote the healing of affected areas.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis teas that help with insect bites.

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that helps to reduce inflammation and itching associated with insect bites by acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.
• Linalool: A terpene that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, helping to soothe and calm the skin affected by insect bites.
• Limonene: A terpene that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antipruritic (itch-relieving) effects, which can help to alleviate the discomfort caused by insect bites.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make teas for insect bites.

• Leaves: They are used to make teas for insect bites due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help soothe and calm skin irritations.
• Flowers: The flowers of Melissa officinalis are used to make teas that help reduce itching and inflammation caused by insect bites.
• Stems: The stems of Melissa officinalis are used to make teas that contain antiseptic and anti-inflammatory compounds, which help to relieve pain and itching caused by insect bites.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for insect bites.

1. Harvest the fresh melissa officinalis leaves in the morning when they are at their most fragrant and potent.
2. Clean the harvested leaves thoroughly with cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Steep 1 teaspoon of dried melissa officinalis leaves or 2 teaspoons of fresh leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids and discard the solids.
5. Store the tea in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

7. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, teas helps with insect bites because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

The flavonoids and phenolic acids present in sage tea help to reduce swelling and itching caused by insect bites. Additionally, its antimicrobial properties help to prevent infection by killing bacteria that can enter the bite wound.

This makes Salvia officinalis tea a natural remedy for soothing and calming insect bites, promoting faster healing and reducing discomfort.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis teas that help with insect bites.

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid helps with insect bites by reducing inflammation and acting as an anti-histamine, which in turn alleviates itching and swelling.
• Carnosic acid: A diterpene, carnosic acid has antioxidant properties that help in reducing oxidative stress caused by insect bites, thereby promoting wound healing and alleviating pain.
• Salvianolic acid: A phenolic acid, salvianolic acid has potent anti-inflammatory properties that help in reducing redness, swelling, and pain associated with insect bites.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make teas for insect bites.

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, which help to reduce inflammation and itching associated with insect bites.
• Flowers: Salvia officinalis flowers are used in teas to provide anti-inflammatory properties and to soothe skin irritations caused by insect bites.
• Buds: The buds of the plant are used to make teas that help to reduce itching, swelling, and pain caused by insect bites, thanks to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for insect bites.

1. Harvest fresh salvia officinalis leaves from a well-maintained garden or a trusted supplier by mid-morning.
2. Rinse the freshly harvested leaves in a fine mesh strainer under cool running water for 10 minutes.
3. Dry the cleaned salvia officinalis leaves in a single layer on paper towels at room temperature for 24 hours.
4. Combine 1 teaspoon of dried salvia officinalis leaves with 8 ounces of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup for 5 minutes.
5. Strain the infused tea through a fine mesh strainer into a separate cup and discard the solids immediately.

8. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, teas helps with insect bites because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

The active compounds in thyme, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to reduce swelling and itching associated with insect bites. Thyme teas may also help to prevent infection by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that can enter the bite wound.

Its soothing effects can provide relief and promote healing, making thyme teas a popular natural remedy for insect bites.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris teas that help with insect bites.

• Thymol: Thymol acts as an insect repellent and antiseptic, helping to prevent further irritation and reduce the risk of infection from insect bites.
• Caryophyllene: Caryophyllene has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help to reduce swelling and prevent infection at the site of the insect bite.
• Bornyl acetate: Bornyl acetate has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which help to alleviate pain and reduce swelling associated with insect bites.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make teas for insect bites.

• Leaves: Thyme leaves are commonly used due to their anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antibacterial properties that can help soothe and heal insect bite wounds.
• Flowers: Thyme flowers are used for their similar properties to leaves, including their ability to reduce inflammation and prevent infection in insect bite areas.
• Buds: Thyme buds are sometimes used for teas due to their concentrated oil content, which provides additional antiseptic and antibacterial benefits to alleviate insect bite symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for insect bites.

1. Harvest 25 to 30 grams of fresh thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers to make a strong herbal tea.
2. Rinse the fresh thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Combine 1 teaspoon of dried thymus vulgaris or 2 tablespoons of fresh thymus vulgaris with 1 cup of boiling water.
4. Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the flavors and oils to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids and discard the solids.

9. Origanum majorana

Origanum majorana, also known as sweet marjoram, teas helps with insect bites because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

The tea's active compounds, such as rosmarinic acid and linalool, work together to reduce redness and swelling, ease itching, and promote wound healing. Additionally, the tea's antiseptic properties help to prevent infection and promote a smooth recovery.

As a result, sweet marjoram tea can provide quick relief from insect bites, making it a popular natural remedy for this common problem.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Origanum majorana teas that help with insect bites.

• Carvacrol: This phenolic monoterpene acts as an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic agent, helping to reduce swelling and prevent infection at the site of the insect bite.
• Linalool: A terpene with anti-inflammatory and antipruritic properties, linalool helps to soothe itching and reduce redness associated with insect bites.
• Rosmarinic acid: A polyphenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, rosmarinic acid may help to reduce the severity of the allergic response to insect bites, alleviating symptoms such as itching, redness, and swelling.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of sweet marjoram used to make teas for insect bites.

• Leaves: The leaves of Origanum majorana are used to make teas for insect bites due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help soothe and heal affected areas.
• Flowers: The flowers of Origanum majorana are used to make teas for insect bites because they possess antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in reducing swelling and pain.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used for their antioxidant properties, which help to neutralize free radicals and promote healing in insect bite wounds.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sweet marjoram for insect bites.

1. Harvest 20-30 fresh or dried majorana leaves and flowers for a 1-cup serving.
2. Combine 1 teaspoon of majorana leaves with 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
3. Steep the mixture for 3-5 minutes allowing the flavors to infuse into the water.
4. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove solids quickly.
5. Serve the tea hot or chilled garnished with a sprig of fresh majorana leaves immediately.

10. Achillea millefolium

Achillea millefolium, also known as yarrow, teas helps with insect bites because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

The tea is rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing itching and swelling caused by insect bites. The antiseptic properties also help to prevent infection and promote healing, making yarrow tea a natural remedy to alleviate discomfort and promote recovery from insect bites.

This makes it a popular choice for those looking for a natural solution.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium teas that help with insect bites.

• Apigenin: This flavonoid acts as an antihistamine and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce itching and swelling associated with insect bites.
• Chamazulene: As an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic compound, chamazulene helps soothe and calm skin irritation caused by insect bites, reducing the risk of infection.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antipruritic properties, which can help alleviate the intense itching and discomfort caused by insect bites.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make teas for insect bites.

• Leaves: They are commonly used due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and calm insect bite symptoms.
• Flowers: The flowers are used for their antiseptic and antihistamine properties, helping to reduce itching and swelling caused by insect bites.
• Roots: The roots are often used due to their analgesic and antiseptic properties, which help to relieve pain and prevent infection from insect bites.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for insect bites.

1. Harvest fresh achillea millefolium flowers, leaves, and stems from a clean area on a sunny day.
2. Rinse the harvested plant material with cool water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Combine 1-2 teaspoons of dried achillea millefolium with 8 ounces of boiling water in a teapot.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the herbal properties to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the tea into a cup and serve immediately, while it is still warm and fragrant.

What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for insect bites?

The best combination of herbal teas that help with insect bites is a blend of calendula, peppermint, and tea tree.

Calendula tea soothes and calms the skin, while peppermint tea cools the area and reduces itching. Tea tree tea, with its antibacterial properties, helps prevent infection and promotes healing. To make the perfect blend, steep 1 teaspoon of dried calendula and peppermint in 1 cup of hot water for 5-7 minutes, then add 1/4 teaspoon of dried tea tree leaves.

Strain and enjoy.

What ailments similar to insect bites are treated with herbal teas?

Ailments similar to insect bites that are treated with herbal teas are skin irritations such as rashes, eczema, and dermatitis.

Herbal teas like peppermint, chamomile, and calendula have anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe and calm the affected area, reducing redness and itching.

These teas may also help to reduce inflammation and promote healing, providing relief from symptoms associated with these skin conditions.