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.
Venom is not the only avian product known to be helpful in combating illness. 'Apitherapy' uses honey, bee pollen, propolis, and royal jelly, either ingested or applied topically. The venom - naturally delivered by a sting - is administered by injection in most modern treatment protocols. The poison itself is a natural substance harvested from bees during warm weather when food is plentiful and the poison most potent.
Researchers have isolated at least eighteen components of the poison that have a therapeutic effect. The venom contains enzymes, peptides, and 'biogenic amines', which come from proteins. Studies show that injections may cause swelling and redness but also stimulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.
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.
This alternative form of healing is used in treating MS, chronic fatigue, sciatica and back pain, nerve pain, and arthritis. It is now also being tried for relief from the effects of Lyme Disease. The standardized poison is injected or used in a cream, liniment, or lotion. Preparation is homeopathic, manufactured by processes which are regulated by the FDA under existing rules.
Anyone interested in this form of therapy should be sure that they do not have a life-threatening reaction to an insect bite or sting. (Interestingly enough, BVD can be used by a licensed practitioner to desensitize an allergic person to such attacks. Although the patient won't ever be immune, he or she could have a less severe reaction after treatment.)
It is important that both patient and therapist be informed on the proper protocols for BVT, as well as what to expect during and after treatment. Since there is always the danger of adverse reaction, a licensed practitioner and properly equipped clinic should be found. The therapy can be combined with other methods, such as using acupuncture and trigger points as injection sites. The therapy is a little painful, but those who benefit from it find the initial discomfort well worth while.
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.
Venom is not the only avian product known to be helpful in combating illness. 'Apitherapy' uses honey, bee pollen, propolis, and royal jelly, either ingested or applied topically. The venom - naturally delivered by a sting - is administered by injection in most modern treatment protocols. The poison itself is a natural substance harvested from bees during warm weather when food is plentiful and the poison most potent.
Researchers have isolated at least eighteen components of the poison that have a therapeutic effect. The venom contains enzymes, peptides, and 'biogenic amines', which come from proteins. Studies show that injections may cause swelling and redness but also stimulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.
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.
This alternative form of healing is used in treating MS, chronic fatigue, sciatica and back pain, nerve pain, and arthritis. It is now also being tried for relief from the effects of Lyme Disease. The standardized poison is injected or used in a cream, liniment, or lotion. Preparation is homeopathic, manufactured by processes which are regulated by the FDA under existing rules.
Anyone interested in this form of therapy should be sure that they do not have a life-threatening reaction to an insect bite or sting. (Interestingly enough, BVD can be used by a licensed practitioner to desensitize an allergic person to such attacks. Although the patient won't ever be immune, he or she could have a less severe reaction after treatment.)
It is important that both patient and therapist be informed on the proper protocols for BVT, as well as what to expect during and after treatment. Since there is always the danger of adverse reaction, a licensed practitioner and properly equipped clinic should be found. The therapy can be combined with other methods, such as using acupuncture and trigger points as injection sites. The therapy is a little painful, but those who benefit from it find the initial discomfort well worth while.
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.