Enjoying the fruits of outdoor summer activities may lead to an unfortunate encounter with bees. Should a run-in with one of these insects leave you with the discomfort of a bee sting, there are certain homeopathic remedies that you may use to relieve the pain and itch. Seeking medical assistance should be the first concern of someone who suffers from an allergic reaction.
Aconitum napellus
If you get stung, and immediately get a feeling of tingling, swelling, numbness or a burning pain, and it's accompanied by your feeling panicked, Aconitum napellus is a good remedy. Take it as soon as possible, and if the symptoms persist, use it in conjunction with another remedy.
Apis mellifica
If you're allergic to bee stings, the area of the bite will become red or pink, swell and get very puffy, and it may even feel hot when you touch it. If those are your symptoms, Apis is ideal for you; it will bring a reduction to the swelling very quickly.
Cantharis
If, after the sting, you have a tremendous feeling of a scalding or burning pain, and the site of the sting becomes a fiery red--and even blisters form--take Cantharis.
Carbolicum acidum
If you're truly allergic to bee stings--you feel very weak and sick, your breathing becomes labored, and your face becomes pale--seek immediate medical attention. This is where carbolicum can come in handy; it's a short-term remedy to keep you going until you can get to a doctor or a hospital.
Hypericum
If you get stung in a particularly sensitive area--a part of your body that has a lot of nerve endings--Hypericum is an appropriate remedy. Stings in such an area usually cause tingling and numbness or a shooting pain. Hypericum is perfect for relieving all of these.
Ledum palustre
Ledum is useful if you notice several factors. First, the swelling from the sting is not localized--it spreads--and you get a cold, numb, aching pain. A final check can be done by applying some cold water to the site of the sting; if that eases the pain, then Ledum is called for.
The Right Dosage
You can usually buy all of these homeopathic remedies in prepared potencies; trying to mix them yourself is difficult and time-consuming. The key things to remember are these: take a low dose first and wait to see if the symptoms improve; if not, try another remedy. It's best that you consult a homeopathic provider to determine the best dose.
When to Seek Medical Attention
A life-threatening allergic reaction occurs in approximately 3 percent of people who are stung by bees. Signs of allergic reaction include shortness of breath or wheezing, swelling of the face, especially the lips and tongue, dizziness, fainting or nausea. Seek immediate medical attention should any of these events occur.
Tags: allergic reaction, Aconitum napellus, another remedy, burning pain, homeopathic remedies