When pestered by bug bites, the unholy trio of itching, swelling, and unsightly welts can be a nightmare. Mosquitoes, bedbugs, gnats, chiggers – they're all culprits of these nasty bites which tend to spike while strolling outdoors or vacationing.

The 'run to the nearest pharmacy for a relief cream' protocol has its own fan base. But for those who'd rather tap into Grandma's wisdom or stay rooted in their own pantry, behold our compilation of 13 DIY, natural bite-beaters. Keep in mind, they might not be stamped by clinical trials, but hey, both doctors and netizens vouch for them, so why not give it a shot?

1. Honey - Your skin's sugar-coated friend. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, honey's not just a sweet indulgence but also a nifty little wound healer. Apply some on your bite marks, and see how it curbs the itch and swelling. Bonus: its stickiness distracts you from scratching.

2. Witch Hazel - A plant known for its skin-soothing potential, with a role in inflammation control established via a test tube study. Dab some on a cotton ball and meet your new itch extinguisher.

3. Aloe Vera - Another plant-based remedy, aloe vera's gel is known for quelling inflammation and aiding wound healing. Its fresh, soothing gel gives bug bites a run for their money.

4. Oatmeal - From a breakfast bowl staple to skin calmer, oatmeal's anti-inflammatory effects are versatile. Apply it as a paste or bathe in it – your choice, but expect the same soothing result.

5. Baking Soda - Making a paste out of baking soda and water gives you a home-made ointment for your bites. Just discontinue if it irritates your skin.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar - Not a miracle cure, but can come in handy for those pesky bites. Adding it to a cold bath can work wonders for easing the itch.

7. Garlic - Slice it, mince it, blend it with coconut oil - but never apply directly on the skin. Nature's antibiotic can help reduce swelling temperately.

8. Onion - With strong anti-inflammatory properties, these tearjerkers can be applied to your bites directly. Cut, apply, wash – it's as simple as that!

9. Tea Bags - Chamomile tea tops the billing for its anti-inflammatories, but green, black, or rooibos bags can play the itch-reliever role splendidly, too.

10. Tea Tree Oil - Known for its skin-friendly antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Apply it directly or dilute if your skin is sensitive.

11. Thyme and Basil – Chop these herbs finely and let them combat the inflammation from your bites.

12. Milk - This fridge staple not just quenches thirst but soothes bug bites too. Mix with water, apply, rinse, repeat!

13. Ice - No-nonsense, straightforward cold therapy to numb and soothe the itch. Just be careful not to overdo it and cause an ice burn!

Although home remedies can treat most bug bites, if you're dealing with an angry tick, a potentially infected bite, or an itch beyond the help of naturals – swing by your doctor's office pronto. Cheers to your bite-free existence!