Debunked: Common myths surrounding desi nuskhas promising to cure bee stings

Indian Express

a day ago

Bee stings are a common environmental hazard, especially in rural and semi-urban India. While they are usually harmless in most individuals, incorrect treatment — often rooted in traditional home remedies — can increase the risk of complications such as local infection, prolonged inflammation, or, in rare cases, systemic allergic reactions like anaphylaxis. Many desi nuskhas continue to be passed down through generations, but do they actually work? Here's what modern medical science has to say.
Dr Priyanka Kuri, consultant – dermatology, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru, clarified that generally desi nuskhas do not work. 'We advise against using those as they lead to more irritation and inflammation,' she said.
Revealing further about the hacks people come up with to cure such stings, Dr Kuri shared that people tend to apply eucalyptus oil mixtures, pain relief sprays, and even ice packs to treat a sting. However, the expert questions their effectiveness.
Dr Akshay Challani, Lead & Sr Consultant Critical care and Medical Advisor- Apollo Hopsitals Navi Mumbai concurred, adding that while some traditional remedies like aloe vera or baking soda may offer symptomatic relief, many commonly used nuskhas — particularly those involving metallic objects or acidic substances — have no scientific validity and may worsen outcomes. He busted some common myths:
Claim: Neutralises the venom or draws it out.
Medical Reality: There is no biochemical mechanism by which metallic surfaces can deactivate apitoxin (bee venom). On the contrary, most metal objects are not sterile and can act as fomites, potentially introducing Staphylococcus aureus or other pathogens into the skin. This can lead to secondary bacterial infections, delayed healing, and local cellulitis. This practice is strongly discouraged.
Claim: Acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic.
Medical Reality: Onion contains sulfur compounds such as allicin, which have mild antibacterial properties in vitro. However, there is no clinical evidence supporting its efficacy in treating envenomation or reducing sting-related inflammation. It may provide a placebo effect, but cannot replace targeted symptomatic treatment.
Claim: Disinfects the sting site and relieves pain.
Medical Reality: Lime is acidic (citric acid, pH ~2) and can irritate broken or inflamed skin, worsening erythema and pain. Applying acid to a venom-inflamed dermis may also impair the skin's natural barrier function, increasing susceptibility to irritant contact dermatitis. It is medically inadvisable.
Toothpaste: Largely myth. While some assume its alkaline properties can neutralize venom, bee venom is already slightly alkaline. Additionally, toothpaste may contain abrasives, detergents, or menthol, which can cause local irritation and contact dermatitis.
Baking soda paste: Mildly alkaline, often used for insect bites. However, its benefit in bee stings is anecdotal, not evidence-based. It may soothe itching but does not alter venom absorption or toxicity.
Turmeric paste: Contains curcumin, a known anti-inflammatory compound. While turmeric has general healing benefits, it has no proven efficacy in managing bee venom reactions.
Aloe vera gel: Safe and dermatologically beneficial. Known for its mucopolysaccharide content, aloe vera provides mild anti-inflammatory and cooling effects. It may help soothe the skin but is supportive care only.
Ice or cold compress: Clinically validated. Cold therapy causes vasoconstriction, limiting venom dispersion and reducing swelling, pain, and itching. This is the first-line non-pharmacological intervention for localized bee stings.
Dr Challani elaborated that the goal of evidence-based treatment is to limit venom absorption, control inflammation, prevent secondary infection, and monitor for systemic complications. Key steps include:
1. Stinger removal: Prompt removal of the stinger is critical. Use a rigid object like a credit card edge to scrape it out. Avoid tweezers, as pinching can compress the venom sac, injecting more venom into subcutaneous tissue.
2. Local cleansing: Wash the area with mild soap and clean water to reduce microbial contamination. Avoid alcohol-based or overly acidic topical agents unless prescribed.
3. Cold application: Apply a cold compress or ice wrapped in cloth for 10–15 minutes every hour to manage edema and local pain.
4. Pharmacological care:
Oral antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine or loratadine) to reduce pruritus and allergic response.
Topical corticosteroids or calamine lotion to ease inflammation and itching.
Analgesics (e.g., paracetamol or ibuprofen) for pain relief if needed.
5. Monitoring for systemic reactions: Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or lips, hypotension, or generalized urticaria may indicate anaphylaxis — a medical emergency. Such patients require immediate administration of intramuscular epinephrine, oxygen support, and emergency care.