Home remedies for yellow jacket stings?

Yellow jackets, simply known as wasps, are aggressive and resort to repeated stings if provoked or threatened. As they sting repeatedly, the stings tend to get lodged and come free off the wasp’s body. The venom is extremely dangerous to those who are allergic or to people who receive multiple stings. The places you need to look out for yellow jackets are trees, shrubs, attics, hollow flooring or walls, soil cavities, and under porches.

Typically, the sting will cause an allergic reaction with localized swelling, redness, and itchiness. With more stings, the allergy also intensifies. In some, the reaction to the sting can be delayed. The person generally feels too ill to call for help; hence, it is important to administer proper drugs to reduce pain and swelling. It is also important to remove the stings immediately, as they can deepen the intensity of venom getting into the body. Here are some things you can do if you get stung by a yellow jacket:

You can use a butter knife and rub it on the opposite end of the sting to dislodge it.

Keep a first aid kit that contains peroxide, soda, alcohol, ibuprofen, and an ice pack, as each of these help in bringing relief. Peroxide, alcohol, and baking soda aid in removing the stinging pain and stop the venom from spreading.

Do not rub the area of bite to avoid spreading of venom.

Betel leaves can be crushed between the palms of the hands, and juice can be applied on the sting bite to bring relief and immediately reduce the effect of the sting. Betel leaves have antiseptic properties that makes it medicinal.

Lime or calcium hydroxide can be mixed if available to bring healing. This home remedy is often used in Asian countries and is very effective.

If the victim’s speech slurs or tongue swells or if he/she experiences tightness in the chest, difficulty in breathing and swallowing, and weakness, immediate medical attention should be provided.

answered by G M