Wasp stings can be quite painful. When you are stung by a wasp, it's important to remove the stinger by scraping your fingernail across the top of the sting. If you choose to use an herbal treatment, be warned that such treatments are not approved by medical professionals. If you have any symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as shortness of breath, dizziness or nausea, you should go to a hospital immediately.
Lavender
Theresa Roberts, author of "ABC's of Bumps and Bruises," recommends lavender as an herbal treatment for wasp stings. According to Roberts, lavender reduces mild inflammation associated with insect stings and can also soothe the pain. One of the best forms of lavender to apply to wasp stings is lavender oil, which is available at natural food stores. Simply pour some oil into a cotton swab and dab it on the bite.
Some people are quite sensitive to lavender oil, and it can cause rashes and skin irritation. Do not use lavender as a treatment for wasp stings if this is the case.
Parsley
"Essential Herbal Wisdom" names parsley as a solid herbal treatment for wasp stings. The book states that the herb has natural antibiotic properties that prevent infection, disperse poisons and reduce swelling and pain. To apply parsley to your wasp sting, bruise a handful of fresh parsley leaves with a mortar and pestle. Lay the bruised leaves in a thin layer over the sting and hold them there until the discomfort subsides.
Parsley is not a medically approved treatment for wasp stings, and should only be used on the mildest of cases. Consult your doctor before attempting this treatment if the sting looks particularly nasty.
Marshmallow Leaves
"Essential Herbal Wisdom" says that the herb marshmallow's natural soothing, healing properties make it a good choice for treating wasp stings. You will need fresh marshmallow leaves, which are occasionally available in health food stores if you don't have access to them in your home garden. Gently rub one of the leaves on the wasp sting until the pain lessens and the redness fades slightly. Hold an ice pack over the sting for 10 to 15 minutes after removing the leaf.
Marshmallow leaves may not completely reduce stinging and swelling in severe cases. If the leaf and ice doesn't relieve the majority of the pain, you may require a doctor's care.
Onion
Onion draws the worst of the sting out of wasp stings, according to the authors of "The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies." Joe and Teresa Graedon say that onions contain an enzyme that breaks down prostaglandins, compounds that the body secretes when it's exposed to trauma. Neutralizing these compounds reduces inflammation and pain. To apply this treatment, slice off a piece of onion and place the freshly sliced side against the sting. Hold it there for 5 to 10 minutes.
If you are exceptionally sensitive to onions, applying them to a wasp sting may cause further irritation.
References
- "The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies;" Joe Graedon and Teresa Graedon; 2002
- "Essential Herbal Wisdom;" Nancy Arrowsmith; 2009
- "ABC's of Bumps and Bruises;" Theresa Roberts; 2008
- "Complete Aromatherapy Handbook;" Susanne Fischer-Rizzi; 1991
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