Bee Sting Remedy: 7 Home Treatments

While only about 1 to 2 people out of 1,000 is allergic or hypersensitive to bee or wasp stings, getting stung is never fun. (1) A bee sting can cause pain, redness, swelling, burning and itching. After the shock sets in, the pain begins to spread, much like a burning sensation. For stings that do not cause an allergic reaction, experts agree that bee sting treatment at home is enough. Natural bee sting remedies can help you stop the pain of an unexpected sting. Before using the bee sting remedies below, it's important to first remove the stinger. (2) It will look like a small black dot at the site of the sting. Do not use tweezers. Instead, use an object that is not sharp, like a finger nail or the edge of a credit card. Next, sanitize the area using soap and water. Then you can proceed with at home bee sting treatment.

Bee Sting Remedies

1. Baking Soda and Water

Baking soda can be used in many home remedies. Mix it with water to create a paste, then apply the paste to the sting to help neutralize bee venom and reduce pain, itching and swelling. (3)

2. Elevation

If you are stung in an arm or leg, elevate the area after the sting. Elevating the affected limb will help fluid leave the swollen area where you were stung, to reduce swelling and inflammation.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar works as a bee sting remedy because it neutralizes bee venom. Apply apple cider vinegar to a bandage and use the bandage to over the sting. You can also soak a clean cloth in some apple cider vinegar then apply it to the area for 15-20 minutes at a time. (4)

4. Ice

Ice may be the most simple bee sting treatment, but it's effective. Applying ice to the sting site will help stop itching and reduce inflammation. It will also draw blood to the area, which will help speed healing.

5. Honey

Honey might be the last thing on your mind after you've been stung, but honey works as a bee sting remedy because it helps prevent infection. It's a natural antibacterial that can stop itching and inflammation while speeding the healing process. (5)

6. Activated Charcoal

Using activated charcoal as a bee sting treatment will help draw out any leftover venom from the sting. Mix some activated charcoal powder with water or oil to create a paste, then apply it to the area.

7. Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is known for it anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used to calm mosquito bites, bee stings, wasp stings and more. Witch hazel is a powerful astringent made from the leaves and bark of the witch hazel plant. Apply it directly to the skin site to soothe redness, itching and inflammation. (6)