Essential Oils for Bee Stings
For most people, bee stings are a minor problem resulting in some swelling, itching etc. But, we still would like some relief from the discomfort. This is where using essential oils for bee sting relief comes in. If you are someone who enjoys using natural remedies – these natural oils can eliminate some of your symptoms. From lavender’s calming properties to tea tree oil’s antiseptic benefits, they can take a bit of the “ouch” out of bee stings.
There are many home remedies for bee stings. If you choose to try essential oils, knowing which of a few basic oils to use is a great way to get started.
Choosing the Right Essential Oils for Bee Stings
There are several reasons essential oils are an effective treatment for bee stings.
- many have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties (reducing redness, swelling, pain)
- some are natural antimicrobials (they help stop germs from entering the wound)
Factors to Consider
Here are a few factors to consider as you choose the essential oils to keep in your bee sting first aid kit.
Essential oils offer unique benefits. Some are better at soothing itching, or reducing swelling- even serving as a disinfectant.
Lavender oil is known for its calming properties – perfect for relieving itchiness. However, tea tree oil has strong antiseptic qualities to help prevent infection.
Personal preference is another important factor to consider. Choose fragrances that appeal to you and are gentle on your skin. If you dislike the scent (or your skin finds it irritating) – then it is not the right oil for you.
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read my disclosure.
Top Essential Oils for Relieving Bee Sting Symptoms
Though not a complete list by any means – here are some of the most popular essential oils used for relief from bee stings. These natural compounds are powerful.
Consult your physician if you have any concerns. Be sure to read the section below on using the proper carrier oils!
Lavender Essential Oil
This is one of the most popular essential oils for a variety of purposes. The anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of Lavender oil make it perfect for soothing bee sting irritation.
It is also calming and may help you relax – a good thing after experiencing stings. Lavender essential oil can also be using in some many homemade health and beauty products. It will never go to waste.
Tea Tree Essential Oil
Tea tree oil is also known melaleuca oil. It is made by steaming the leaves of the Australian Tea Tree. Believed to have antibacterial properties when applied to the skin, it is used for acne, foot fungus, insect bites and more.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Eucalyptus oil is another effective essential oil for bee sting pain and swelling. It is considered to be analgesic (pain relief) and antiseptic (germ killing).
Chamomile Essential Oil
Chamomile is a common ingredient in many skin care products. Some of you may be old enough to remember painting your legs with that famous pink Chamomile lotion back in the day?
Some sources compare the effectiveness of Chamomile to hydrocortisone cream for irritated skin. It has help reduce swelling too.
Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint oil provides a cooling sensation to the skin – and it smells good too. This cooling pain relief may sooth your hot itchy bite.
Frankincense Essential Oil
Not as common as some of the others, some folks swear by Frankincense essential oil for bee sting relief. It is a soothing and calming oil. And, the anti-inflammatory properties are a good match for the swelling and itch from a sting.
However, it can be quite expensive and I am not convinced that it works better than the more economical choices above.
Before Treatment – Signs of Allergic Reactions
If you have any indication that you may be allergic to bee venom -do not attempt home care. Make your way to the nearest emergency facility immediately – call for help.
Swelling of the tongue or throat, dizziness, trouble breathing or loss of consciousness may be signs of anaphylaxis – this potentially fatal condition requires medical attention! This is not the time for home treatments.
How to Use Essential Oils for Bee Stings
Remember, we talked about the fact that these natural oils are powerful. Just because you can buy them without a prescription or order them online does not mean they can be used without proper caution.
** Disclaimer: This post provides a look into the use of essential oils for relief from the minor pain and swelling of bee stings and how they are commonly used.
It is not intended to provide medical advice or take the place of your healthcare provider. Consult your physician!
Carrier Oils
Most essential oils should never be applied directly to the skin without being diluted with a carrier oil. What is a carrier oil? It is any mild skin safe oil that you use to dilute your potent essential oils.
The most common ones are coconut oil and almond oil. Though sunflower and jojoba oil are preferred by some people.
Mix Ratio
For most oils, 5 drops of essential oil to one ounce of carrier oil is sufficient. Use a cotton ball to apply the diluted oil to the affected area and gently massage into the skin. You can repeat every few hours.
Everyone has different skin sensitivity. When using one for the first time, use the weakest formula and test on a small area.
Safety Concerns
When using essential oils to treat bee stings (or for any reason) be sure to respect their power. Take the necessary safety precautions to ensure you are helping your situation and not making things worse.
- choose high quality oil – look for the testing certification
- always dilute the oils
- watch for allergic reactions
- avoid sensitive areas – eyes, mouth, genitals etc
- consult your health professional if you have any medical conditions
Avoid the Need for Sting Relief
The most simple explanation for the cause of a sting is simply that you and a stinging insect became too close to each other. Honey bees sting for defense give them space. Stay away from nests.
Considering honey bees vs yellow jackets learn to tell the difference. You are much more likely to be stung by a wasp and this is one of the major differences between bees and wasps. Thankfully, essential oils work for wasp stings too!
FAQs
Some essential oils can be applied directly to skin (check your label). However, it is generally safer to dilute them in a carrier oil.
The frequency of application depends on the severity of the symptoms and your response to treatment. As a general guideline, you can apply diluted essential oils to the affected area every few hours or as needed for relief.
Essential oils can be used on children for bee stings, but it’s crucial to use them with caution and proper dilution, as children’s skin tends to be more sensitive.
No, essential oils can not prevent or provide treatment for allergic reactions. They are only used to offer some relief from skin irritations.
Final Thoughts
Doesn’t a simple sting from a bee resolve on its own within a few days? Yes, in most cases a sting does not require a doctor’s visit (except for allergic reactions). It may heal just fine even if you do nothing.
But, there is no reason to feel uncomfortable if you don’t have to. Why not relieve some of your symptoms and promote healing by using natural essential oils and get some sting relief.
These natural oils are great for many purposes including some that promote good health for humans. In fact, beekeepers sometimes use essential oils in beekeeping for the same reason – better health.