How to Use St. John's Wort to Treat Bites and Stings

If you spend much time outdoors, it's likely that you will be stung or bitten by an insect at some time. Whether it is a bite from a pesky mosquito or the sting of a determined wasp, the ensuing itching and swelling can be painful and annoying. It's important to treat those bites and stings. If you prefer to do it in a natural way, using St. John's Wort is an excellent way to go.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• St. John's Wort, fresh or dried

After You Are Stung

1. Carefully remove any stingers within the first minute after being stung to reduce the amount of venom released into your skin. You can scrape the stinger out, flick it with your finger or place tape over it and gently pull it off. Using tweezers to grab the stinger can release more venom.
2. Watch carefully for any significant allergic reactions to stings or bites. A little localized swelling is to be expected, but swelling of the lips, tongue or mouth in conjunction with difficulty breathing is a reaction that requires immediate medical attention.
3. Prepare a wash of St. John's Wort to clean the area. Steeping a handful of the fresh herb or a few pinches of the dried herb in some lukewarm water will create an antiseptic solution.
4. Soak a clean cloth in the wash solution and clean the affected areas.
5. Use a poultice to treat the bites and stings. A poultice is a moist application of the herb that is held in place by a loose bandage. Using a poultice of St. John's Wort can topically soothe pain, and some of the herb may also permeate the skin to calm and relax you.
6. Treat stings and bites by rubbing the fresh herb on the area if there isn't water available. The effect will not be as strong, but the antiseptic property should be of some use.

Prepare a Poultice

7. Gather a handful of fresh or dried St. John's Wort. Rehydrate the dried herb by adding just enough water to moisten it.
8. Soften the herb by steaming, boiling or pounding it. Shape it into a small wad or ball.
9. Add 3 parts water or alcohol and a little flour to make the poultice stick to the skin more easily.
10. Place the wad flat on the bite or sting and cover it with a loose bandage. Reapply as necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• St. John's Wort can be dangerous for people taking certain prescription medications, such as those for seizures, heart conditions and depression.