Bee stings can ruin a perfect day fast — sharp pain, swelling, and redness hit almost instantly. But when I got stung as a kid, my dad had a go-to fix that still works every time.
Bee venom contains melittin, a compound that causes pain and inflammation. While most stings are mild, allergic reactions can be serious and need immediate medical care.
My dad’s trick? Baking soda paste. Right after the sting, he’d mix one teaspoon of baking soda with a few drops of water, apply it directly to the sting, and leave it for about a minute. The relief? Almost instant.
Why it works: bee venom is acidic, while baking soda is alkaline — it helps neutralize the venom and reduce swelling.
How to use it:
- Remove the stinger with a flat object like a credit card.
- Mix baking soda and water into a paste.
- Apply it to the sting for one minute.
- Rinse. Repeat if needed.
Forget honey, vinegar, or ice — this method is fast, simple, and safe. Most people already have baking soda at home. Just remember: if symptoms are severe or the person has trouble breathing, seek medical help immediately.