Imagine you are with your friends enjoying a picnic or hiking and the bee stings you. This can indeed be a buzzkill and may spoil the ultimate fun.
Bee stings are quite common, often accompanied by pain, redness, swelling, and itching. Even while the majority of bee stings are not harmful, those who are allergic to bee venom may find them to be dangerous. There are a number of natural remedies you can try if you get stung by a bee to assist relieve the pain and suffering.
6 Home Remedies To Treat A Bee Sting
Ice
One of the easiest ways to reduce swelling and pain caused due to bee stings is by applying ice. Place an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas on the affected area for 15-20 minutes. Repeat every hour as needed.
Honey
Honey can also be used to treat bee stings as it has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This can soothe the sting site and reduce swelling. Apply a small amount of honey directly to the affected area and leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.
Also Read: How To Provide First Aid In Case Of Insect Bites And Stings
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a medicinal plant that serves multiple benefits, including treating a bee sting. It has natural anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help reduce the swelling of a bee sting. Apply aloe vera gel on the sting site to get relief.
Baking Soda
Another ingredient that can be used to treat a bee sting is baking soda. It is a naturally alkaline substance that has the ability to neutralise the acidic venom of a bee sting. Make a paste by combining one teaspoon of baking soda with a small amount of water. Apply the paste to the sting site and let it sit there for 15 to 20 minutes, before rinsing it off. Repeat many times daily until the discomfort and swelling go away.
Apple Cider Vinegar
From treating skin disorders to assisting weight loss, apple cider vinegar is utilised for a variety of health and wellness benefits. It has antibacterial properties that can help ease swelling and inflammation. Soak the area of your bee sting with diluted apple cider vinegar for at least 15 minutes. However, if this method causes irritation, stop it immediately.
Also Read: Buzzed By Mosquitoes? 5 Natural Ways To Get Rid Of Them
Onion
You can even use raw onion if the sting does not cause an allergic reaction. It has anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties that can reduce swelling and itchiness. Slice the onion in two halves and apply it to the sting site for relief.
When To Visit A Doctor
Although bee stings are not serious and usually heal on their own, if you are allergic to bee venom it may cause complications. You should always seek immediate medical attention if you exhibit any symptoms of a serious bee sting reaction. The symptoms may include hives (red skin patches that itch and sting), difficulty breathing, a decrease in appetite, and swelling of the tongue, lips, or throat.
Bottomline
You can try these home remedies to soothe your sting site and get relief from pain, swelling, itching, and irritation. However, you should always be careful before applying any ingredient to your skin as it may cause an allergic reaction. Ensure that you avoid using ingredients that you are allergic to. Visit a healthcare expert if you notice signs of an allergic reaction.
