About Bee Venom Therapy Use

By Olive Pate


Many alternative therapies used today have their roots in ancient China. Bee venom therapy (BVT), which apparently was used there centuries ago, is still practiced around the world. Modern research has revealed much about the bee's poison, but the reasons why it effects healing are still not clear. It is believed to work by triggering an immune system response that calls the body's own healing powers into play.

BVT is only one form of therapy that uses beehive products. 'Apitherapy' is the umbrella term for the use of honey, bee pollen, royal jelly, and propolis, as well as the stinger's poison, to effect healing. The other products of the hive are ingested or used topically, while the venom is generally injected beneath the skin. The poison is harvested from bees during the warmer months, when it is at full potency because food is plentiful.

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.

Although most patients don't understand the chemistry involved, they do testify to relief of chronic pain and muscle and nerve debility. These responses were noted by 18th century beekeepers in Eastern Europe and Germany, as multiple stings often alleviated arthritis and rheumatism.

Today people who suffer from MS, chronic fatigue, sciatica and other forms of back pain, nerve pain, and arthritis may want to try BVT, especially if conventional medicine has failed to help them. Lyme Disease has been added to this list in recent years. Others may like the all-natural nature of the treatments. A standardized extract of the poison is injected or delivered in a lotion, liniment, or cream.

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.

It is important to find a reputable clinic with trained and licensed personnel, and patients should educate themselves to the risks as well as the possible benefits. Some alternative clinics may offer BVT along with other healing protocols. The injections may be made at acupuncture points, or at trigger points that massage therapists manipulate to heal and relieve. For many, the idea of injections is distasteful, but there are endless testimonies from those who have tried BVT and say the results are worth the discomfort.

If conventional therapies either do not work or do not appeal, it's nice to know that this time-tested and validated therapy could offer relief. As long as the proper, established protocols are followed and the administrator is both trained and knowledgeable, BVD can be safe and effective.




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