Health Alternatives

Ease The Sting Of Jellyfish The Natural Way

Jellyfish can inflict a painful sting that most would rather avoid. These hollow bodied animals have stinging cells called nematocysts spaced down the length of their tentacles. The total possible number of stings you receive is dependent on the length of the tentacles. Symptoms of a jellyfish sting vary from red lesions at the sting location to muscle spasms. These lesions could fill with fluid and become somewhat discolored after they heal. If stung repeatedly, the victim may vomit, or suffer from headache, muscle weakness and heart arrhythmia. If there is severe cramping, the victim could drown, so he/she should be removed from the water as quickly as possible. Other signs include excess tearing, painful breathing and a runny nose. Some will have a severe allergic reaction with severe, persistent muscle spasms. If this happens or if the area becomes infected, a doctor should be consulted.

Treating the sting on the spot can be done naturally. Removing the tentacles with a stick or other object to avoid being stung also, the assistant should be careful not to scrape them off causing more stings. Without scrubbing, which would release more venom, rinse the stings with seawater or vinegar. In the absence of vinegar, human urine (preferably male urine which is more sterile) can do the same thing. If a woman's urine is used, bacteria from a urinary tract infection could infect the stings. Do not use freshwater, sun lotion or alcohol, which can stimulate the pain. The most important task is to keep the affected area immobile and to remove the tentacles to prevent more venom going into the victim. If you have taken all these steps but more tentacles remain, you can coat the area with flour, backing powder, shaving cream, or mud and use the dull edge of a knife to shave off the rest. The coating should protect against more venom draining into the victim's body.

Substances that can reduce the pain of the jellyfish sting include meat tenderizer, sugar, plant juices and baking soda. Modern topical treatments such as benzocaine will minimize the pain, also.

If stung in the eye, flush it with a least a gallon of freshwater. If stung in the mouth, mix one part vinegar with three parts water to rinse with, unless there is swelling or difficulty breathing.

Of course, the best defense is not to be stung. However, the tentacles may trail very far from the jellyfish body and are difficult to see, making avoidance hard at times. Even dead jellyfish washed ashore can sting, so picking one up after a storm is not recommended. Wet suits worn while in the water is very good prevention for jellyfish stings.

Common Herbs And Some Specific Uses

Golden Seal

Use the root. A powerful agent used in treating ulcers, diphtheria, tonsillitis and spinal meningitis. It is one of the best substitutes for quinine. It acts as an insulin.

Gotu Kola

Contains remarkable rejuvenating properties. It is known as “The Secret of Perpetual Youth.” It strengthens the heart, memory and brain.

Hawthorne

Known as the heart herb. It is used to dilate the coronary blood vessels in a mild way and restore the heart muscle wall.

Henna

Use the leaves and root. It is an effective treatment for the liver and skin infections.

Hops

Has a remarkable relaxing effect on the central nervous system. It is also effective for anemia and restoring the appetite.

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