10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Insect Bites

Herbal tinctures for insect bites are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants that have natural anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and soothing properties.

These tinctures help alleviate itching, swelling, and discomfort caused by insect bites, providing relief to those who suffer from bug bites and stings. For example, herbal tinctures like calendula, lavender, and chamomile are effective in calming irritated skin, while plantain and nettle tinctures can reduce inflammation and itching.

By using these natural remedies, people can enjoy outdoor activities without the discomfort of insect bites, improving their quality of life and overall well-being.

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

1. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold tinctures helps with insect bites because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

The tincture's active ingredients, such as calyxin and luteolin, work together to reduce swelling, ease itching, and prevent infection caused by bug bites. Additionally, pot marigold has been shown to possess antimicrobial properties that help combat bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause infection.

As a result, applying pot marigold tincture to insect bites can provide quick relief from discomfort and promote healing.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, which help to reduce swelling, itching, and redness associated with insect bites.
• Triterpene saponins: These saponins have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing the risk of infection and promoting the healing process.
• Phenolic acids: These acids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to neutralize free radicals, reduce inflammation, and promote wound healing, thereby alleviating symptoms of insect bites.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help soothe and protect affected skin areas.
• Leaves: They are used due to their astringent and antiseptic properties, which aid in reducing swelling and promoting healing of insect bites.
• Stems: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help reduce redness and promote the healing process of insect bites.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather approximately 250 grams of dried calendula flowers and store them in an airtight container.
2. Combine the dried flowers with 750 milliliters of 70% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
3. Seal the jar and store it in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
5. Discard the solids and store the tincture in a dark glass bottle with a dropper lid.

2. Hypericum perforatum

St John's Wort tinctures helps with insect bites because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

When applied topically, it can quickly soothe itchy skin and reduce swelling caused by mosquito or other insect bites. The herb's active compounds, such as hyperforin and hypericin, work to neutralize the bite's painful and uncomfortable effects, providing fast relief from irritation and discomfort.

Additionally, St John's Wort's antimicrobial properties help prevent infection and promote healthy healing of the affected area.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum tinctures that help with insect bites.

• Hyperforin: Hyperforin is a lignan with potent anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, which helps to reduce swelling and itching associated with insect bites.
• Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid phenolic compound that exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which helps to soothe and calm irritated skin caused by insect bites.
• Naphthodianthrones: Naphthodianthrones are a group of compounds with photoprotective and anti-inflammatory properties, which helps to protect the skin from further irritation and damage caused by insect bites.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make tinctures for insect bites.

• Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties that help soothe and calm insect bite reactions.
• Flowers: The flowers contain hyperforin, which has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that aid in reducing swelling and preventing infection at insect bite sites.
• Stems: They contain a rich mixture of flavonoids and tannins, which help to reduce inflammation and itching associated with insect bites.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for insect bites.

1. Harvest 250g of fresh hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves when they are in full bloom usually in mid to late summer.
2. Dry the plant material in a warm dark place for 1-2 weeks to reduce moisture content.
3. Combine the dried plant material with 750ml of vodka at a ratio of 1:3 by weight in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks shaking the jar occasionally to facilitate infusion.
5. Strain the liquid through a coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids and store the tincture in a cool dark place.

3. Arnica montana

Mountain arnica tinctures helps with insect bites because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

The tincture's active compounds, such as flavonoids and saponins, work together to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and swelling associated with bug bites. Additionally, arnica's antimicrobial qualities help prevent infection by eliminating bacteria and other microorganisms that may enter the wound.

By using mountain arnica tinctures, individuals can find relief from the discomfort and itching caused by insect bites, promoting a faster recovery and reduced risk of complications.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arnica montana tinctures that help with insect bites.

• Helenalin: A sesquiterpene lactone, helenalin is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the swelling and pain associated with insect bites.
• Norditerpenes: These compounds have shown analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate the discomfort and pain caused by insect bites.
• Flavonoids: Specifically, flavonoids like kaempferol and quercetin, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the inflammation and promote healing of the affected area.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of mountain arnica used to make tinctures for insect bites.

• Flowers: The flowers of Arnica montana are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, particularly sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, which are responsible for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
• Roots: Arnica roots are used for their ability to reduce swelling and pain associated with insect bites, thanks to their high content of sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
• Leaves: Arnica leaves are sometimes used to make tinctures for insect bites due to their flavonoid content, which has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to soothe and calm affected skin.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest approximately 100g of fresh or dried arnica montana flowers on a sunny day after 10am.
2. Chop the harvested arnica flowers into small pieces using a sharp knife for about 5 minutes.
3. Combine the chopped flowers with 500ml of 60% ethanol in a clean glass jar for 2 weeks.
4. Shake the jar containing the flower and ethanol mixture daily for 14 days.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

4. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with insect bites because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

The tannins and saponins present in the plant work together to reduce swelling, itching, and redness associated with bug bites. Additionally, the antimicrobial properties of echinacea help to prevent infection and promote healing by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that may be present at the bite site.

This natural remedy can provide quick relief from the discomfort caused by insect bites.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Iridoids: Iridoids, such as echinacoside, may help reduce inflammation and itching associated with insect bites by modulating the body's response to the bite.
• Alkaloids: The alkaloid isobutylamide present in Echinacea angustifolia may have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which could help ease pain and swelling caused by insect bites.
• Phenolic acids: These phenolic acids may exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, helping to mitigate oxidative stress and reduce inflammation caused by insect bites.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for insect bites.

• Roots: They are the primary part used to make tinctures for insect bites due to their high concentration of compounds like alkylamides and phenylethanoid glycosides, which have anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties.
• Leaves: The leaves of Echinacea angustifolia are used to make tinctures to reduce swelling and itching caused by insect bites due to their content of flavonoids and phenolic acids.
• Barks: Echinacea angustifolia barks are used in tinctures to help alleviate the pain and inflammation associated with insect bites, thanks to their alkaloid and phenolic content.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of dry echinacea angustifolia root and 1 part of dry echinacea angustifolia flowering tops in early fall.
2. Chop the harvested echinacea angustifolia root and flowering tops into small pieces using a sharp knife or herb cutter.
3. Combine 1 part of chopped echinacea angustifolia root and 1 part of chopped echinacea angustifolia flowering tops in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the echinacea mixture in 2 parts of 80 proof vodka or glycerin for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

5. Plantago major

Plantain tinctures helps with insect bites because of its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and soothing properties.

The tincture quickly absorbs into the skin to reduce swelling, redness, and itching caused by bug bites. It also contains natural antioxidants that help combat infection and promote healing.

By applying plantain tincture directly to the affected area, you can alleviate discomfort and speed up the recovery process, making it an effective and gentle remedy for pesky insect bites.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major tinctures that help with insect bites.

• Phenolic glycosides: These compounds help with insect bites by reducing inflammation and alleviating itching, thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds help with insect bites by inhibiting histamine release, which in turn reduces itching, swelling, and redness associated with insect bites.
• Alkaloids: These compounds help with insect bites by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, which can reduce the severity of skin reactions and alleviate discomfort.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make tinctures for insect bites.

• Leaves: Known for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, helping to reduce itching and swelling caused by insect bites.
• Stems: Containing flavonoids and other compounds that contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, aiding in wound healing and reducing inflammation.
• Seeds: Rich in saponins and other compounds with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, helping to soothe and calm skin irritation caused by insect bites.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest the aerial parts of the plant in the morning after the dew has evaporated but before the heat of the sun.
2. Cut the harvested plant parts into small pieces and weigh out 1 part of dried material to 2 parts of solvent.
3. Combine the plant material with vodka as the solvent at a ratio of 1:2 for a 50% ethanol tincture.
4. Steep the mixture in a glass container with a lid in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container discarding the solids.

6. Urtica dioica

Stinging nettle tinctures helps with insect bites because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties.

The herbal extract contains compounds that reduce swelling, itching, and redness associated with bug bites. Additionally, the tincture's antihistamine effects help to alleviate any allergic reactions, making it an effective remedy for soothing bug-bitten skin.

Its topical application can also help to accelerate the healing process, allowing individuals to find relief from annoying insect bites without resorting to harsh chemicals or over-the-counter medications.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica tinctures that help with insect bites.

• Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce redness, swelling, and itching caused by insect bites.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid with potent anti-inflammatory effects, quercetin can help alleviate the pain, swelling, and itching associated with insect bites by inhibiting the production of chemical mediators.
• Histamine-reducing phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Urtica dioica can help reduce the levels of histamine, a chemical released in response to insect bites, thereby alleviating symptoms such as itching, redness, and swelling.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make tinctures for insect bites.

• Leaves: Rich in histamine and other compounds that help neutralize the effects of insect venom.
• Stems: Similar to leaves, stems contain anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties that aid in soothing insect bites.
• Roots: The roots of Urtica dioica contain antioxidants and other compounds that help reduce swelling and itching associated with insect bites.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Chop 250g of fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems into small pieces using a sharp knife.
3. Combine the chopped urtica dioica with 750ml of high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks shaking it daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.

7. Aloe vera

Aloe tinctures helps with insect bites because of its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antihistaminic properties.

When applied topically to affected areas, aloe vera's soothing gel-like substance can reduce swelling, ease itching, and prevent infection caused by the insect's saliva or other foreign substances introduced into the skin.

Additionally, aloe vera's natural calming effects can help to alleviate discomfort and promote faster healing of the bite wound.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Saponins: Saponins in Aloe vera tinctures help soothe and reduce inflammation caused by insect bites, making the affected area less itchy and uncomfortable.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, particularly caffeic acid and ferulic acid, exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing redness and swelling associated with insect bites.
• Glycoproteins: Glycoproteins in Aloe vera tinctures contain moisturizing and soothing properties that help to calm and hydrate the skin, reducing the discomfort and pain associated with insect bites.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part for tinctures due to their high concentration of aloin, a compound that helps soothe and reduce inflammation caused by insect bites.
• Buds: The buds, which are the young leaves of the Aloe vera plant, are also used for tinctures, as they contain a higher concentration of acemannan, a polysaccharide that helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Stems: The stems of the Aloe vera plant are sometimes used for tinctures, as they contain compounds that help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and itching caused by insect bites.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather organic aloe vera leaves with thick green skin and store them in a cool dark place.
2. Chop the aloe vera leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife or a food processor for 5 minutes.
3. Combine the chopped aloe vera pieces with 80 proof vodka in a ratio of 1:5 for 2 weeks in a glass jar.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids immediately.
5. Label the tincture with the date and ingredients and store it in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.

8. Mentha x piperita

Peppermint tinctures helps with insect bites because of its natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

When applied topically, peppermint oil can reduce swelling and itching caused by insect bites, providing quick relief from discomfort. Additionally, the cooling sensation of peppermint oil can help to numb the affected area, making it an effective remedy for soothing itchy bug bites.

This natural solution is a gentle and non-irritating way to alleviate the symptoms of insect bites, allowing for a faster recovery process.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Menthol: It helps with insect bites by numbing the skin, reducing itching and inflammation, and providing quick relief from discomfort.
• Caryophyllene oxide: It has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help to reduce redness, swelling, and the risk of infection associated with insect bites.
• Rosmarinic acid: It acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation caused by insect bites, thus promoting faster healing and reducing the risk of long-term damage.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Mentha x piperita leaves are commonly used to make tinctures for insect bites due to their high concentration of menthol and other volatile oils that provide quick relief from itching and pain.
• Stems: Mentha x piperita stems are used for their anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce swelling and redness caused by insect bites, making them a popular choice for tinctures.
• Leaves: Mentha x piperita leaves are also valued for their antimicrobial properties, which aid in preventing infection and promoting healing in areas affected by insect bites.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh m x piperita leaves and flowers in the morning when their essential oils are most concentrated.
2. Clean the m x piperita plant material by rinsing it with water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Chop the cleaned m x piperita plant material into small pieces to increase its surface area for extraction.
4. Steep 250 grams of chopped m x piperita in 750 milliliters of 40% ethanol for 2 to 6 weeks.
5. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter to separate the tincture from the plant material.

9. Lavandula angustifolia

English lavender tinctures helps with insect bites because of its natural anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and soothing properties.

The tincture's active compounds, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, work to reduce swelling and itching, while also combating bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause infection.

Additionally, the calming effects of lavender help to alleviate anxiety and discomfort associated with insect bites, promoting a sense of relaxation and relief.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Linalool: Linalool, a terpene, has anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, which help to reduce the itching and swelling caused by insect bites.
• Linalyl acetate: Linalyl acetate, another terpene found in Lavandula angustifolia, has a sedative effect on the nervous system and can help to reduce the release of histamine, a chemical that causes allergic reactions to insect bites.
• Caffeic acid: Caffeic acid, a phenolic compound, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to soothe and calm the skin after an insect bite, reducing the risk of infection and promoting faster healing.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: Contain volatile oils that help to soothe and calm skin irritations caused by insect bites.
• Flowers: Rich in antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing swelling and itching from insect bites.
• Leaves: Also contain antioxidants that help to protect the skin from further irritation and promote healing.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers by hand in the early morning when dew is still present.
2. Dry the harvested flowers using a low-temperature dehydrator at 35c for 2-3 hours to prevent spoilage.
3. Combine 1 part of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers with 2 parts of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean container and discard the solids.

10. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile tinctures helps with insect bites because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.

When applied topically, chamomile can reduce redness, swelling, and itching caused by bug bites. Its calming effects can also alleviate the discomfort and annoyance associated with insect bites, allowing for a more peaceful night's sleep. Additionally, chamomile's antibacterial properties can help prevent infection by reducing the risk of bacteria entering the wound.

Overall, chamomile tinctures provide a natural and effective solution for relieving the discomfort of insect bites.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Apigenin: This flavonoid compound helps with insect bites by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, which can reduce itching, redness, and swelling associated with insect stings.
• Chamazulene: This terpene is known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which can help soothe and calm skin irritation caused by insect bites, promoting faster healing and reducing the risk of infection.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid compound has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate pain, itching, and inflammation caused by insect bites, while also protecting the skin from oxidative stress and promoting healthy skin regeneration.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: The flowers of Matricaria chamomilla are commonly used for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties to alleviate symptoms of insect bites.
• Leaves: The leaves of Matricaria chamomilla contain flavonoids and terpenoids that help to reduce inflammation and itching caused by insect bites.
• Seeds: The seeds of Matricaria chamomilla contain sesquiterpenes that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to soothe and calm insect bite reactions.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers at 10 am for maximum potency.
2. Combine 1 part of the dried flowers with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
3. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking it every day.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar.
5. Discard the solids and store the tincture in a cool dark place for up to 4 years.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with insect bites is a blend of Calendula, Echinacea, and Plantain.

Calendula promotes wound healing and reduces inflammation, while Echinacea enhances the immune system to fight off potential infections. Plantain is a natural antihistamine that soothes itching and swelling.

Combine these tinctures in equal parts, dilute with water, and apply topically to the affected area. This synergy of herbs can help alleviate discomfort, reduce swelling, and promote rapid recovery from insect bites.

Consult a healthcare professional before using any new remedies.

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

Ailments similar to insect bites that are treated with herbal tinctures are minor skin irritations and allergic reactions, such as hives, itching, and redness.

Herbal remedies like calendula, chamomile, and peppermint can provide relief from these symptoms by soothing the skin and reducing inflammation.

Additionally, tinctures made from plants like stinging nettle and yellow dock may help alleviate itchy and irritated skin caused by allergic reactions or minor cuts and scrapes.