Onions for Wasp Stings: How to Use Them

Onions are said to have a healing effect on a wasp sting. Read below to find out whether this is really the case and which alternatives can be used.

Onions in a wasp sting

In the summer in particular, it can quickly happen that you are stung by a wasp. If you don’t have an allergic reaction to it, such a sting is usually harmless. However, it is important that you do not scratch the sting, as this can spread the poison more quickly. This can lead to infection or inflammation and the healing of the wound takes much longer. However, if you treat the sting with half an onion, the swelling can heal faster.

• Take half an onion, cut it in half and press it onto the puncture site for at least ten minutes. Apply light pressure and move the onion half in small circles. The onion is said to cool the sting and have a disinfecting and anti-inflammatory effect.
• Lemon juice has a similar but lesser effect. You can also put some sugar on the onion half. This is to remove the poison.
• Many people report that using the onion method can actually reduce symptoms. However, to date there is no scientific evidence for the reported modes of action, as no studies have been carried out on this. Therefore, you should also consider alternatives.
• Apple cider vinegar can also help cool a wasp sting, soothe itching, and draw out the venom. Put some apple cider vinegar on the area after the sting.
• Quark can also inhibit inflammation after a wasp sting and cools the affected area even more. To do this, either put the quark directly on the sting or make a quark wrap.

Dangerous wasp sting – then you should see a doctor

Redness, swelling and itching are possible side effects after being stung by a wasp. After four days at the latest, the symptoms should be significantly reduced. If this is not the case, you should consult a doctor. The same applies if a sting immediately causes an allergic reaction in you.

• Certain symptoms also indicate anaphylactic shock. Nausea, dizziness, severe swelling, drowsiness, shortness of breath, tachycardia, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and difficulty speaking and swallowing are clear signals. This can lead to respiratory and circulatory arrest. Call an ambulance immediately!
• In this case, we even recommend that you call an ambulance. This is an emergency that requires immediate medical attention. Tip: Sometimes the family doctor around the corner is quicker. Then call here so that he can come by immediately.
• You should also call an ambulance if you have been bitten in the mouth or throat. Because the mucous membranes swell quickly, the airways can become narrowed or even blocked. Until the emergency doctor arrives, you can suck on ice or ice cubes and cool the outside of your neck with a damp cloth. Of course, this is only possible as long as you are conscious.