The question is, why do some people swell, itch, turn red at every mosquito bite and some have no reaction at all? Another one is why do some people seem to get all the bites and others are completely left alone.

I have two daughters – one is constantly battling mosquitoes, the other never gets a bite.  One is scab ridden, itchy and band aid covered while the other maintains her flawless kin. Our joke is that she is too mean for the mosquitoes (she’s really very sweet, but…). So why one and not the other? They’re usually together, doing the same thing, around the same mosquitoes.

But there are theories out there about why some mosquitoes are drawn to certain people, mostly body chemistry. Apparently body temperature, carbon dioxide emitted and blood type are attractants for these annoying bugs. Type O people are the most attractive to mosquitoes. While it’s annoying to get bitten more than others, it also can be more dangerous because of the infections mosquitoes carry.

But back to the annoying part. When you are coved in bites and they are swelling and itching (because of course, some people re more allergic than others), what is your best remedy? I found an interesting site (www.tipnut.com) with an article listing over 40 itch relief tips for mosquitoes. Here are a few (I’d use my own judgement on a few of these…):

Mix these fresh then apply to bite as soon as possible. The consistency should be nice and thick so it won’t run, yet will still stay in place on the affected area. You could also spritz bite with water then apply grains/powders directly (generously) and rub them in.

1. Baking Soda & Water (works for me)

2. Meat Tenderizer & Water

3. Salt & Water (works for me)

4. Epsom Salt & Water (could also do this as a foot soak if it’s the ankle/foot area affected)

5. Tums Tablets: crush and add a few drops of water

6. Aspirin: crush then add a few drops of water

7. Aspirin – crush then apply a few drops of rubbing alcohol

Essential Oils: Apply full strength directly to bite area. Edit: There are concerns about using essential oils on children and pre-teens, especially repeated use.

1. Tea Tree Oil

2. Lavender Oil

3. Witch Hazel (astringent)

4. Cedar Oil

And of course you have your Caladryl and Calamine lotions…