How to Make Your Own Soothing Bug Bite Powder

November 13, 2025 Biome team

Biome Naked Beauty Bar - DIY Soothing Bug Bite Powder

First published September 2022. Updated November 2025.

For many people, insect bites require little medical attention, but they are often itchy and may sting. But, did you know that applying bentonite clay to the bug bite can help to relieve the itching and soreness?

Bentonite and other clays have been used for centuries by cultures all over the world for their nutrients and to help rid the body of toxins. Bentonite clay is effective at soothing bug bites, as it has the ability absorb the bug bite toxins from the skin, and release its minerals to help the body heal. As Wellness Mama puts it:

Bentonite clay carries a strong negative charge which bonds to the positive charge in many toxins. When it comes in contact with a toxin, chemical, or heavy metal, the clay will absorb the toxin and release its minerals for the body to use. Bentonite also helps get oxygen to cells as it pulls excess hydrogen and allows the cells to replace it with oxygen instead.

Ingredients

1/4 cup dried calendula petals or chamomile flowers
1/4 cup bentonite clay or white kaolin clay

Check out some variations and more add ins below.

Method

In a mortar and pestle or blender, grind the petals to a fine powder.
Sift the ground petals through a fine sieve, and repeat this process with the remaining petals until you end up with a very fine silky powder.
In a small glass mason jar, combine the powdered petals with the clay, and stir with a wooden spoon only (a metal utensil will react with the clay).
Store sealed in a cool, dry place for up to 12 months.

Adapted from Jan Berry's Herbal Home Remedies

How to use it

Rub a small pinch of the powder directly onto bug bites, mosquito bites, bee stings, and other minor skin irritations.

Tip: You can also mix with a few drops of water or witch hazel to make a paste.

Why witch hazel?

Witch hazel is a gentle astringent distilled from the bark and leaves of the witch hazel shrub. It’s great for bug bites because it helps reduce swelling and redness, calms itching, and can slightly disinfect the area.

You can also keep a little bottle of witch hazel in your bag for cooling bug bite relief on the go—just splash it on directly or mix with the powder.

Variations: more ways to customise your bug bite clay powder

Feel free to adapt this recipe based on what you have on hand or your skin’s sensitivities. Here are some effective ingredient swaps and additions:

Chamomile flowers (anti-inflammatory, calming for sensitive skin)
Lavender buds (antibacterial, helps relieve itching and calm nerves)
Rose petals (gentle and mildly astringent; adds a soft floral scent)
Plantain leaf (great for drawing out toxins—especially bites and stings; use dried leaf)

🍯 Boosting add-ins (use 1 tsp max per 1/2 cup total powder)

Colloidal oats (extra soothing for inflamed or sensitive skin)
Ground turmeric (anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial—just a pinch or it may stain!)
Activated charcoal (strong detoxifier—use only a tiny amount and avoid around open wounds)