The venom from bee stings contains proteins that can produce pain, swelling and itching. Some people have allergic reactions to bee stings, and may require emergency medical attention right away. Most people have only minor discomfort, and within a day or two, the itching and swelling goes away. A few simple remedies can alleviate the symptoms and speed recovery.
Toothpaste
Most toothpaste contains glycerin that can help dry out the venom. Toothpaste is also alkaline, and can neutralize the acidic bee venom. The toothpaste treatment should offer relief within 15 minutes after liberal application on the affected area.
Kitchen Help
Apply meat tenderizer to the sting. It has an ingredient called papain that can help break down the proteins that are found in the venom.
Potatoes may reduce swelling and inflammation. Cut the potato in quarters and apply it to the sting area for a few minutes for quick relief.
Make a paste with baking soda and water to help the itching. To reduce itching and burning, apply vinegar or lemon juice: just put some on a cotton ball as apply on the sting.
Herbs
Calendula comes from the marigold flower and can be very helpful in reducing the swelling and itching that comes from a bee sting. Calendula cream can be purchased at health food stores and pharmacies, and has antiseptic properties that can help prevent infections. Plantain, yarrow and lemon balm are common herbs that can be used to remedy bee stings. Simply get the leaves, crush them and apply to the skin several times a day. To help soothe the pain, cut some fresh aloe vera and dab it on the sting site three times a day.
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