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Hot Water for Itchy Bug Bites

http://www.peoplespharmacy.com/2009/08/01/hot-water-for-itchy-bug-bites/

…a couple of seconds at most. Either expose the skin very briefly to hot running water or use a hot washcloth for a second or two.

. . . . According to the dermatology experts from the 1960s, the hot water “short circuits” the itch reflex. In other words, the nerve network in the skin gets so overloaded by the heat stimulus, the urge to scratch is abolished for up to three hours. You will be amazed at how fast the relief occurs. ..........

Some from the Comments:

This remedy is so true, I stumbled across this happening to me one day while showering and the hot water hit the mosquito bite, it was very soothing and the itch stopped immediately. So now that’s my remedy for insect bites that are not infected. AND IT WORKS, I JUST DID IT TODAY AND IT LAST FOR SEVERAL HOURS, I HAVE A BITE ON MY LOWER ARM SO I JUST PUT MY ARM UNDER HOT RUNNING WATER IN THE SINK. GREAT RELIEF!!!

Hot water is the best relief, I have also tried soaking in a tub with epson salt with hot water and it works wonders.

I found out about this quite by accident and have found it to be the best way for mozzie bites (not sure about other types of bites though). Boil water, let it sit for a few minutes, dip towel, and dab for few seconds on the bite (as long as I can bear). The itch is gone for good. If it does return, just repeat. When I need to repeat it, I reckon it’s times where I don’t hold it there long enough. I had no idea it’s about short-circuiting the nerves. I thought it was to do with changing the form of the protein, which is what (I remember) causes the itch.

Here is something else to try with an itch. Instead of scratching it hard, scratch (more like rub) it very lightly for a minute or two, avoiding the urge to press harder. The itch will very slowly dissipate.

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