Penny on a Bee Sting: Myth Busting – It Doesn't Work

The Claim

Folk remedy: place a copper penny on a bee sting to "neutralize" venom via chemical reaction.

The Science

• Bee venom is acidic (pH 4.5–5.5); main pain component is melittin (peptide), not free acid.
• Copper metal does not react with melittin or venom components to deactivate them.
• Any perceived relief is placebo or cold conductivity of metal—not chemistry.

What Actually Works

1. Remove stinger ASAP (scrape, don't squeeze).
2. Wash with soap & water.
3. Cold compress (ice pack wrapped) 10–15 min.
4. Oral antihistamine (diphenhydramine) for itch/swelling.
5. NSAID (ibuprofen) for pain/inflammation.
6. Elevate if on limb.

When to Seek Emergency Care

• Any sign of anaphylaxis (throat swelling, trouble breathing, widespread hives, dizziness, vomiting).
• Multiple stings (>5 in child, >10–20 in adult).
• Sting in mouth/throat/eye.
• Known allergy – use EpiPen, call 911.

Save the penny for a wish. Treat the sting with evidence‑based first aid.