3 Methods Of Treating Bee And Wasp Stings With Household Items

Do you have bees and wasps around your garden? Whether you have pets or children -- or are simply very worried about getting stung yourself -- you might want to know about some methods of treating bee and wasp stings. It's best to learn early, as you won't always have the ability to look up information when you're actually dealing with a sting.

1. Vinegar

Vinegar is the easiest way to reduce the pain associated with a bee or wasp sting. This is because vinegar is slightly acidic, and the acid neutralizes the chemical irritants that the stinger injects. Simply pour vinegar on a cloth and then hold on the affected area. It may take up to fifteen to twenty minutes for the vinegar to work, so don't give up early! The vinegar pad treatment is also good for children because it prevents them from scratching at the sting. Don't add baking soda to the vinegar--it will neutralize it.

2. Cold Packs

A cold pack will prevent swelling around the sting and numb the area. (Don't use a hot pack; that will only make it worse.) Fill a plastic freezer bag with ice and water and then wrap it in a hand towel or paper towels. Hold it onto the stung area. By the time that the cold pack has completely melted, the bulk of the pain and discomfort should be gone -- though the treatment can be repeated as necessary.

3. Baking Soda and Water

If the itch is worse than the pain, make a poultice of baking soda and water. Add a couple of tablespoons of baking soda to a small amount of water, until the mixture is thick enough to spread. Spread it directly on the affected area -- and cover any part of your skin that has become red. By the time the baking soda dries, the bulk of the itching should be relieved. Again, you don't want to mix this treatment with vinegar, as the vinegar and baking soda will essentially cancel themselves out.

After you have successfully treated the sting itself, you may want to take a look towards your pest problem. While bees will occur from time to time, wasps can be incredibly dangerous. If you notice bees and wasps in your garden and around your home regularly, there may be a hive or a nest somewhere close. It's best to call pest control services before the situation becomes more severe.