A bee sting is a wound caused by the stinger from a bee. It can result in a swollen painful bump and itching that usually go away in a few days without treatment. However, there are cases wherein a person may have an allergic reaction to a bee sting. For this scenario, that person may need immediate medical attention.
Here are several home remedies that one can easily use to reduce discomfort and speed up the healing process of the bee sting.
Apply Baking Soda
Baking soda paste can help neutralize bee venom thus reducing pain, itching, and swelling.
To make a paste, we need to mix baking soda with water and apply a thick layer of it on the bee sting and then cover it with a bandage. Leave the paste on the skin for a minimum of 15 minutes and then reapply more as necessary.
Toothpaste
Some people believed that alkaline toothpaste helps to neutralize honeybee venom. Dapping a bit of it on the affected area is an inexpensive and easy home remedy to try.
Aloe Vera
We all know about the numerous skin benefits that we can obtain from aloe vera. But apart from this, the wonder plant can also act as a soothing agent in relieving the pain of a bee-sting. According to a 2015 study, aloe vera extract has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
This remedy will require us to break off a leaf and squeeze its gel directly onto the sting.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
ACV may help neutralize bee venom and reduce swelling.
To use ACV, we need to soak the sting site in a basin of ACV for at least 15 minutes. Also, a bandage or cloth can be soaked in the vinegar and then apply it to the sting site.
Honey
Honey has medicinal properties that can help fight inflammations. Its antibacterial effects can also help lower down levels of swelling, prevent infection, and speed up healing.
When it comes to bee stings, we can try spreading a small amount of honey on the affected area.
Ice
It is recommended that after a bee sting, we need to wash the affected area thoroughly to remove any remaining bee venom.
Since itching and scratching can worsen the case, we can apply ice to reduce pain and swelling. For this remedy, simply wrap an ice pack in a cloth and place it against the site of the sting for 20 minutes. Repeat as needed.
Garlic Juice
Garlic has pain-relieving properties and a powerhouse of essential nutrients. Just crush a garlic clove and press the juices onto the area of the sting. Leave it for about 20 minutes. This method is known to be quite effective.
Lavender Essential Oil
This one can also act as an excellent venom neutralizer. Its strong anti-inflammatory abilities can help reduce swelling. Simply dab one or two drops of lavender essential oil to the sting for relief. We can also achieve the best results by mixing it with a bit of coconut oil.
