By Dennis McKenna, Ph.D, U of M News Wire

MINNEAPOLIS - Sun-filled days and warm nights beckon us to linger over iced coffee, barbeques and fishing holes. From North Shore trails and sparkling lakes to cultured gardens and farmers' markets, Minnesota summers are irresistible.

Just as difficult: Avoiding the inevitable consequences of our warm-weather follies, such as minor skin irritations. While there are a host of over-the-counter products to relieve itching, swelling and pain from bug bites to sunburns, there also are inexpensive, natural remedies to treat these common skin ailments.

Who hasn't suffered the insult of an insect rumored to be the state bird? The easiest way to handle mosquito and other such bug bites is to prevent them altogether: wear light-colored clothing, long pants and bug repellent, avoid sweet fragrances and check for pests after walks in the woods or long grass.

When these precautions fail, alleviate pain, swelling and itching by using such natural remedies such as ice and lavender and tea tree essential oils. These natural remedies are available at natural product stores and at some pharmacies. 

Some bug bites worsen in the heat. Ice cold packs wrapped in a towel and applied to the skin for 10 to 15 minutes can reduce swelling. Ancient cultures have long used the antiseptic and antibacterial properties of lavender and tea tree oils to reduce skin discomfort. Applied directly to the affected area, these essential oils help wounds to heal more quickly. Lavender oil contains a compound called linalool, which acts as an analgesic and can soothe the sting of a bite or minor wound. While these two essential oils are non-toxic and non-sensitizing in most people, skin sensitivity may develop in rare cases. Discontinue if redness or skin irritation develops after use.

Prevention is your best bet against sunburn: wear protective sunscreen and clothing that covers. If you do happen to burn, there are a number of natural ways to reduce the throbbing.

Aloe vera is both a common household plant and a living first-aid kit. Its fleshy leaves contain a clear gel that provides relief for burns and other superficial wounds. Break open a leaf and smooth the gel directly on the skin. A cool 15-minute bath with a few drops of lavender essential oil in a cup of baking soda also is a great way to ease pain.

From gardener to biker, superficial cuts and scrapes are bound to happen. As a multi-purpose first-aid oil, tea tree oil can help to heal almost any type of superficial wound. Aloe vera gel can help to seal the wound, relieve pain and promote healing.

Poison ivy, poison oak and sunscreens are among the many culprits that can trigger a rash. Tea tree oil and lavender oil can help to relieve discomfort and dried chamomile steeped in water makes a soothing wash for a plant-based rash. Finely ground oatmeal in a hot bath can also help to soothe irritated skin.

Dennis McKenna, Ph.D., is an ethnopharmacologist and specializes in the therapeutic applications of plants and natural products. This column is an educational service of the University of Minnesota. Advice presented should not take the place of an examination by a health-care professional. For more health-related information, go to http://www.healthtalk.umn.edu.