About Bee Venom Therapy Use

By Olive Pate


Using a bee sting to alleviate pain is nothing new. History tells us that bee venom therapy (BVT) has been used in China for centuries. It is still used today as an alternative means of healing and pain relief. Scientific research has revealed more about how and why it works. However, doctors and therapists still cannot explain the process fully. The natural poison apparently stimulates the immune system to set in motion the body's inherent ability to heal and suppress pain.

Many products of the hive are known to have therapeutic value. 'Apitherapy' is the industry term for healing arts that use honey, royal jelly, propolis, and bee pollen. These natural substances are either used topically or ingested. The venom, which is harvested from bees during the summer when plentiful food makes it most potent, is generally administered by subcutaneous injection.

Science tells us that this poison contains at least 18 active components with therapeutic effects. Among these are enzymes, peptides (amino acid chains), and biogenic amines (another form of amino acids). Studies have shown that administering venom causes an immune system response, a reduction of inflammation and pain, and an acceleration of healing.

However, most people don't need to know the chemistry; they just want relief from chronic pain, fatigue, and muscle weakness. The therapy began to attract more notice in 18th century Germany and Eastern Europe, as beekeepers noticed that their arthritis and rheumatism were better shortly after an accidental sting or two.

BVT is perhaps best known as a treatment for arthritis and MS. It is also an alternative therapy for chronic fatigue, back pain, nerve damage, and sciatica. It is becoming a popular treatment for lingering symptoms of Lyme Disease. The standardized extract is either injected or applied topically in creams, lotions, and liniments. These ares homeopathic product, produced by processes and manufacturers regulated by the FDA.

This therapy is not suitable for those with life-threatening allergic reactions to insect bites and stings. That is, unless they are seeking to lessen the severity of the reaction, in which case it may be tried under strict medical supervision to desensitize such people. Any treatment should be done under the supervision of a licensed therapist, since an individual may show a first-time reaction that can be severe enough to be dangerous.

Every patient should be educated on at least the basics of using BVD and understand the risks involved. Obviously an allergic reaction can result, even in someone who has not exhibited a sensitivity before. For this reason, people should find a licensed clinic and practitioner, with the skills to safely and effectively monitor the entire process. Treatment can involve subcutaneous injections at acupuncture or trigger points, thought to activate the inherent healing abilities of the body. Although the venom can be painful - and the injections - most people feel the resulting relief makes the experience worth while.

People who live in chronic pain or disability, who cannot find relief with conventional methods, and who don't want to live with constant pain medication may find the answer in BVT. As long as the proper procedures are followed and the therapist is properly trained, this healing art is safe and often very effective.




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