Hippocrates - the Greek physician, was thought to have used bee venom amongst other substances to treat joint pain and swelling, or arthritis as we now collectively call these conditions. The use of bee sting therapy can be traced all the way back to ancient Egypt and Greece. Bee sting therapy or 'Apitherapy',as its also known is more widely used in Eastern Europe, Asia and South America. Even today many still find this therapy helpful when treating conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and osteoarthritis (OA).

Honeybee venom contains many active substances one of which is 'Mellitin', an anti-inflammatory agent which is known to be more than one hundred times stronger than cortisone. These substances stimulate the body's release of the hormone cortisol as well as neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin, all of which can help relieve the pain, stiffness and swelling of arthritis.

Caution.... Anaphylaxis Shock Can Kill

Yes it does sound like a quick fix for your arthritis pain, however, unfortunately bee stings are noted for triggering an allergic reactions called 'Anaphylaxis' or Anaphylaxis shock. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening type of allergic reaction, so caution should be shown if you are considering this course of treatment.

Is Apitherapy A Proven Method for treating Arthritis?

Although apitherapy remains a largely unproven technique, a small number of U.S doctors have reported some good results using the substance to treat arthritic conditions.

Treatments of honeybee venom therapy, or 'Apitherapy' supposedly started after bee-keepers, who were stung many times, noticed their arthritis pains were relieved. Some practitioners still use live bee stings to deliver the venom.

There's really no way of knowing if bee sting therapy will work for you, without trying, which could result in an allergic reaction. For those of you who remain undeterred, the appropriate medical supervision should be sought.

If you are intent on trying bee stings, consult your doctor. It's important that you are prepared for a severe allergic reaction. Although the side effects of bee-venom therapy usually are mild, an allergic reaction to a sting could potentially be deadly, so please bare this in mind.

Is Bee Sting Therapy a Viable Option For My Arthritis ?

Yes, It's true that bee stings may indeed help your arthritis, but at what cost?. In my opinion 'Apitherapy' should probably be avoided, due to the high risk involved. The good news is far Less abrasive natural methods do exist and could prove far more effective in relieving arthritis pain and inflammation