With fall right around the corner our favorite armed pollinators tend to be a little on the grumpy side. Yellow jackets in particular become more aggressive in their search for food, often inviting themselves to your picnic and helping themselves to your lunch. At the homestead we welcome all pollinators that want to call our garden home, even the ones who can be a bit hostile at times. Inevitably we will have a unintended encounter leaving us searching for relief.
Please note - I am not a doctor, and this is not medical advise. If you have a known allergy or suspect an allergic reaction please seek immediate medical attention. Bee and wasp stings can be fatal in some circumstances. These remedies are strictly to help relieve the mild irritation and swelling that can come from non-serious stings.
Bee Sting Remedies:
1. Baking Soda: This common pantry ingredient can help draw out and neutralize the venom. Mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste. Apply liberally to the area and let sit for several minutes before rinsing. Repeat as needed.
2. Plantain: This weed is most liking growing some place in your yard and can make a great poultice which can help reduce pain and swelling from a sting. While this may sound weird, the best way to use it is by chewing up some leaves and then applying them to the sting. If munching on the weed doesn't sound appetizing you can also get the same effect from rolling the leaves between your fingers. The key is to break up the leaves enough to get the juices out of them.
3. Lavender Essential Oil: Probably the most effective remedy I have found is lavender essential oil. Lavender can give you almost immediate pain relief and will help neutralize the venom. Unlike many essential oils, lavender can be used neat (undiluted) directly on the skin. Just a quick drop can help you feeling better in no time.
Again, if you experience difficulty