Just like lice and ticks, chiggers are a type of mites that when contacted will cause several skin problems. Originally called ‘Trombiculidae mites‘, these small creatures cannot be observed without a magnifying glass or a microscope. This makes it further difficult to recognize their bites/effects.
These microscopic creatures are usually found in places that are bushy, in-between tall tress, active vegetation and forests, and even gardens. The female mites are known to lay hundreds of eggs at once. Therefore, you will contact a huge number of these mites in one place.
There are also known as ‘harvest mites’, ‘mowers mites’, and ‘harvest lice’. Studies show that these tiny creatures do not actually BITE you. Instead, the eggs get themselves attached to your skin and hatch. After hatching, they drill holes in your skin and secrete several types of salivary enzymes. This causes your skin to break down and then they feed on your decaying skin.
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Some of the signs of ‘chigger bites’ are the development of redness which is accompanied by intense itching. This is followed by the occurrence of red blisters that cause immense pain.
Although, the itchiness can continue for weeks. Here are some simple natural ways that will help you to get rid off these chiggers :
1) Hot Shower :
Just as when you return from places that are bushy, gardens, or that have active vegetation it is important for you to go straight and hop in the shower. Hot showers can help you get rid of these eggs even before they hatch. Take a thorough hot shower every time you return home or feel that you might’ve contracted any kind of mites/insects.
2) Salt :
Rub salt on the wounds or places that feel itchy. It might irritate and sting a little but it is one of the best ways to calm down the itching. Salt helps in soothing the itch and neutralizes the spit of these mites.
3) Castor Oil :
Another simple remedy to get relieve itches is using castor oil. Just take a cotton pad and dab some of it on the places that itch or on red patchy areas. This will soothe the effect to some extent and help with instantly relieving the itch.
4) Baking Soda :
This is one of the best remedies for chigger bites. It will cause instant relief and help you have a sound sleep at night. Just make a paste using baking soda and water and apply this before taking the hot shower. The paste might cause sting and pain, it will relieve you of severe itches.
5) Aloe Vera :
Aloe vera is known to have anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It has an exceptional cooling effect that makes this one of the best ways to soothe the chigger bites. Apply aloe vera gel directly the places that itch and leave it for some time. You will notice that aloe vera instantly relieves itchiness and help you stay calm too.
Some other remedies that will help you get rid of chigger bites are using Anti-itch creams, diatomaceous earth, and magnesium baths.
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