Simple remedies for wasp stings – try these for yourself
What can you do if you’re stung by a wasp? Allergic reactions should be treated immediately by a doctor. If you’re not allergic to wasp stings, you can use simple home remedies to ease the pain and itching.
Wasps like to gatecrash any garden party. The sting of these uninvited guests hurts and can last for several days. It can help to either cool the sting or place a hot cloth or spoon on it (be careful of burns!). Heat destroys the protein in the venom and reduces the itching and inflammation.
Better safe than sorry
Rubbing half an onion on the sting also helps to reduce the swelling. Better still, take precautions to drive wasps away before they sting! A table decoration made from lavender, carnations and citrus fruits is a great deterrent to these pesky insects. A tasty tempting trap made of ripe grapes, honey and jam set to one side can also keep the wasps away from the table. And don’t forget to place food and drinks in closable containers on the table and to check that plates, cutlery and glasses are wasp-free before taking a drink or a bite.
Expert tip
Dr Paola Maltagliati-Holzner, a dermatologist with Medgate:
“If you’re stung in the mouth or throat, you should see a doctor immediately. Rapid medical treatment is required as it poses a risk of suffocation. You should also see a doctor straight away if you’re allergic to wasp stings, if you experience a reaction in places other than the sting site, or if you experience other symptoms (e.g. a rash; itchy palms, mouth or soles of the feet; difficulty breathing; or dizziness).
To Medgate