Natural health: How can I heal infected mosquito bites?

Plus: What remedy can I take for rheumatic pain in my fingers?

Zinc is a great help when it comes to healing — in fact, zinc deficiency is often a factor when wounds take longer to heal.

I was badly bitten by mosquitoes while on holiday abroad. A few of the bites became infected and are quite painful. I’m using a zinc-based cream, which is giving some relief, but I’m wondering if there is anything else I can do?

Zinc is a great help when it comes to healing — in fact, zinc deficiency is often a factor when wounds take longer to heal. It plays a vital role in collagen synthesis and also contributes to skin integrity. One of the simplest solutions for infected bites is a balm or cream made using both hypericum and calendula. 

Hypericum, commonly known as St John’s Wort, is wonderful for tissue regeneration and helps to prevent infection. Along with having antibacterial and antiviral properties, hypericum has mild analgesic qualities, which make it useful in alleviating pain associated with small wounds. 

Like zinc, calendula is often recommended where wounds are taking longer to heal. It promotes blood flow to the affected area, whilst softening and soothing the skin, and is particularly useful where there is redness and tenderness in the affected area.

Calendula also has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiinflammatory properties. Topical application of calendula can help to provide relief from inflammation and pain, keep the bites clean, and promote new tissue growth.You can purchase a combination Calendula & Hypericum Balm, made by Viridian at Organico in Bantry ( organico.ie; 027-51391), where a 60g pot is currently on sale at €25.24. They also have a Hypericum & Calendula Cream, by Helios, available at €9.95 for a 30g tube.

You will also want to avoid any floral scents or perfumes, since these act to attract the mosquitoes.

I’ve started to experience rheumatic pain in my fingers, which comes on suddenly and disappears again. It seems to be aggravated by the hot weather. What remedy can I take?

The heat can trigger joint pain for two main reasons. The first is the swelling of tissues in the heat, which can put additional pressure on joints that are already painful or sensitive. The second reason is the loss of fluids and lubrication, due to sweating. Often, it is the former issue when it comes to finger pain related to hot weather.

A combination supplement, containing both glucosamine sulphate and chondroitin sulphate, can help with long-term joint protection. Glucosamine works by helping to lubricate joints and assist in the maintenance and repair of cartilage. Chondroitin helps to attract fluid and nutrients into the cartilage. You can purchase glucosamine and chondroitin supplements from Holland & Barrett in a range of strengths and forms.

It is worth noting most glucosamine is derived from crustacean sources, and chondroitin is typically either bovine- (cow) or porcine- (pig) derived, so if you have any specific allergies, you might want to be aware of this. 

Kitchen remedies that might be useful when dealing with rheumatic pain, inflammation, and stiffness include turmeric (Curcuma longa) and ginger (Zingiber officinale).

Turmeric is known as a powerful antiinflammatory and ginger is thought to help the body to reduce pain receptor activity.You can make yourself a simple antiinflammatory tea using half a teaspoon each of dried ginger and turmeric powder (or two/three slices each of fresh ginger and turmeric root). Place the two spices into a small teapot, cover with boiling water, and infuse for five-10 minutes.

Add honey to taste, and drink two-three cups daily. If you are using fresh sliced roots, then you can reinfuse these throughout the day.

NOTE: The information contained in this column is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a doctor.