Essential Oil Anti-Itch Cream: Natural Relief for Summer Bug Bites

Beat the Summer Itch with This Essential Oil Anti-Itch Cream

As the summer sun shines bright over the Midwest, one thing is certain: it’s bug season! From mosquitoes and flies to gnats and ants, our outdoor enjoyment often comes with the unwelcome company of these pesky critters. While bug sprays, diffusers, and DIY essential oil blends can help keep them at bay, there are times—like when you’re relaxing at the pool or dining al fresco—when a bite or two is inevitable. Those bites can itch like crazy! Personally, I struggle to ignore the itch, and that’s why I’ve dedicated time to researching and testing various natural anti-itch treatments. I need something effective. If it doesn’t truly alleviate the itch, I’m left scratching and feeling uncomfortable.

I’m thrilled to share that this essential oil anti-itch cream truly works. It calms and soothes irritated skin, providing quick relief from the itching caused by bug bites, stings, rashes, and other skin irritations. If you’re looking for other natural remedies, consider trying my oatmeal bath soak, anti-itch stick, healing salve (which I find helpful for eczema flare-ups), or roller bottle blend.

Key Ingredients in My Anti-Itch Cream

This website may contain affiliate links. If you click on certain links and subsequently make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Coconut Oil – Known for its soothing and moisturizing properties, it also creates a protective barrier over the skin.
Tamanu Oil – A natural healing remedy from Southeast Asia and Polynesia, it promotes new skin tissue growth and is reputed to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Beeswax – This natural ingredient calms and soothes the skin, reduces temporary itching, and solidifies the cream for easy application.
Calendula Flower Powder (optional) – Known for its soothing properties, it helps calm irritated skin.
Colloidal Oatmeal (optional) – Recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology, it normalizes the skin’s pH and alleviates itchy, uncomfortable skin.
Essential Oils:
- Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) – Helps soothe occasional skin irritations.
- Peppermint (Mentha piperita) – Provides a cooling sensation and eases itching.
- Frankincense (Boswellia carterii) – Supports healthy skin.
- Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) – Known for reducing itching, inflammation, and irritation.
- Lemon (Citrus limon) – Cleanses and purifies the skin.

Instructions for Making the Anti-Itch Cream

Step 1:

Begin by adding 2 tablespoons of beeswax pellets to a heat-safe glass bowl or measuring cup.

Step 2:

To melt the beeswax, place the bowl or measuring cup into a pot of simmering water. Heat over medium, stirring occasionally. It should take about 15 minutes to melt completely. Ensure there are no solid bits remaining, as any solidified beeswax can affect the cream’s texture.

Step 3:

Add 1/4 cup of coconut oil to the melted beeswax.

Step 4:

Remove the mixture from heat and stir in 1/4 cup of tamanu oil.

Step 5:

Once thoroughly melted, allow the mixture to cool for about one minute. Then, add the following essential oils and mix well:

40 drops Lavender
25 drops Peppermint
25 drops Frankincense
15 drops Tea Tree
15 drops Lemon

Step 6 (optional):

For added benefits, mix in 1 tablespoon each of calendula flower powder and colloidal oatmeal.

Step 7:

Pour the mixture into your chosen containers. Tip: Glass, metal, or certain plastics (#1 PET & #2 HDPE) are all suitable for storing essential oil blends.

Step 8:

Clean up promptly, as beeswax can be difficult to remove. Use paper towels to wipe out the bowl and utensils before washing with soap and water.

Step 9:

Let the anti-itch cream cool and solidify completely before sealing the containers (this could take a few hours). Tip: Place it in the refrigerator to speed this process.

Step 10 (optional):

If using a tin container, personalize it by decorating the lid with scrapbook paper and Modge Podge:

Cut scrapbook paper to fit the lid.
Use a foam brush to apply a thin layer of Modge Podge to the lid.
Press the paper onto the lid from the center outwards to eliminate bubbles.
Seal the paper with another layer of Modge Podge.
Allow to dry completely.

How to Use the Anti-Itch Cream

Use a clean spoon or small scoop to retrieve the cream.
Apply a small amount directly to the itchy area.
Gently rub it in, being cautious not to spread it beyond the affected area, especially if there’s a rash.
Wash your hands after application.
Reapply as needed for continued relief.

Where to Find Your Supplies

This website may contain affiliate links. Should you click on certain links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Coconut Oil: Find my favorite here.
Tamanu Oil: I get mine here.
Beeswax: Purchase from this source.
Calendula Flower Powder: Available here (optional).
Colloidal Oatmeal: Find it here (optional).
4 oz Tin Jars: Buy here OR opt for adorable 2 oz Glass Mason Jars: available here.
Wooden Sticks for Stirring: Find them here.
Heat-Safe Glass Measuring Cup or Bowl: Check out these options.
Optional for Decoration: Purchase Modge Podge here and scrapbook paper here.

Join Our Community!

Connect with us on Facebook and Pinterest.

Please note: The products mentioned in this article have not been evaluated by the FDA. The information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a medical professional regarding your health care. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it due to something you have read on this website.

Disclaimer: This website contains affiliate links. If you click on certain links and subsequently purchase a product, I will earn a small commission, but the price remains the same for you. Thank you for supporting this site.