What kind of poison do bees have?

Answer 1

Bee venom is quite complex. It has an acidic base, mainly formic acid, but this is only an irritant. The body's biggest reaction is caused by the peptides (small protein molecules) which include:

• Melittin, which is a strong anti-inflammatory agent and induces the production of cortisol.
• Apamin, which is a neuro-toxin and increases cortisol productionin the adrenal gland.
• Phospholipase A2, which degrades the phospholipids from which cell walls are made causing the cells to break open. It also causes reduced blood pressure and inhibits blood coagulation. It also triggers the production of prostoglandins which regulate the body's inflammatory response.
• Hyaluronidase, which dilates the capillaries, causing the spread of inflammation.
• Histamine, which is involved in the allergic response.
• Dopanime and noradrenaline, which increase the pulse rate.
• Protease inhibitors, which act as anti-inflammatory agents and stop bleeding.

As can be seen, putting household chemicals on a sting site in an attempt to neutralize the sting is futile, and could even do more harm than good.

Answer 2

Not as far as I know but it would need a toxicologist to give a definitive answer.