Homeopathic medicine is based on the philosophy that "like cures like." Homeopaths treat symptoms by giving infinitesimal amounts of a substance that--in larger amounts--would cause the same symptoms in a healthy person. Homeopathic apis mellifica is made from whole honeybees, including the venom and stinger. Bees are crushed, dissolved in alcohol and successively diluted. Apis was proved, or developed as a remedy, by homeopathic physician Dr. Frederick Humphries in the 19th century. As an alternative therapy, homeopathy is not intended to replace medical treatment. Before taking apis mellifica, consult your doctor.
Insect Stings and Snake Bites
Given the origin of apis mellifica, it is logical that one of its major homeopathic uses is for insect bites and stings, particularly those that feature burning, stinging pain and swelling. Elixirs.com suggests apis mellifica for stings from honey bees, wasps, hornets, mosquitoes and other flying insects, and notes that homepaths have used it for snake and spider bites as well. Homeopaths take personality traits into account when prescribing remedies; Beneforce notes that a homeopath is more likely to prescribe apis mellifica if the patient is also restless, impatient and irritable in nature.
Sore Throats
Homeopaths use apis mellifica for sore throats, particularly when patients complain of difficulty swallowing, or feelings of burning and swelling in the throat. Elixirs.com suggests apis particularly for sore throats that are sensitive to the touch, and those that improve with applications of cold and worsen with heat. A sore throat accompanied by a lack of thirst and unwillingness to drink is another indication that apis may be the correct remedy.
Painful Urination and Urine Retention
Homeopaths often suggest apis for patients with burning, stinging pain on urination. According to Herbs 2000, a homeopath may also use apis for urinary retention and edema. Hpathy.com concurs, noting that if the urine is scanty and suppressed, apis may be the correct remedy; if urine is dark, and if symptoms include a desire to urinate that only produces a few drops, apis is particularly indicated. Homeopaths also may use apis to treat urinary incontinence.
Arthritis and Swollen Joints
Apis mellifica is used by homeopaths to treat symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. According to AltMD.com, apis is particularly useful with acute symptoms--especially swelling and tenderness, joints that are hot and inflamed, and stinging pain--and is particularly effective reducing stiffness and pain of hands and knees.
Headache
Apis is a popular homeopathic remedy for headache, especially if the pain is stinging and stabbing. According to Medical Clinic, apis is particularly indicated when pressure and touch worsen symptoms, and cool remedies improve them. According to Beneforce, if the pain originates on the right, this is another indication for apis.
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