Nix the Itch of Summer

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When your rash dries up, use salves and creams to help tissues heal. Try herbal salves of chickweed or calendula, or vitamin E oil. Oil-based remedies trap moisture in the skin and should not be applied until blisters are completely dry. Do not use on open sores or scabs.

Soothe Your Sunburn

In the summer, when you wear less clothing, always try to use sunblock. Even so, sometimes a day in the sun equals sunburn. To cool sunburn, cut a leaf from your aloe plant, slit it open and apply the gel directly to the skin, or scrape the gel from the leaf and mix it with a little water and vitamin E oil for easier application. Or purchase a bottle of aloe vera gel at the health food store; keep both leaf and gel in the refrigerator, wrapping the leaf so it doesn’t dry out.

Tina Marie Wilcox and Susan Belsinger are veteran gardeners and friends who have been collaborating for several years. Tina Marie, who lives in Arkansas’ Ozark Mountains, is very disciplined and doesn’t scratch her bug bites. Susan lives in Maryland and scratches when it itches.

Antiseptic Insect Repellent Skin Oil

Oregano, thyme and tea tree oils are very strong and pungent oils, so we suggest a skin test first; if it burns when you apply it, dilute it further or don’t use it.

• 1/2 cup almond, walnut or grapeseed oil
• 6 drops oregano, thyme or tea tree oil
• 4 drops each of up to four insect repellent oils (click here for a list of oils)

Add oil to a small clean bottle, preferably dark glass. Drop in the essential oils of your choice and shake well. Label and keep in a dark, cool place.

Insect Repellent Neat's-foot Oil

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