Approach and modern millennium
Knowledge of the medicinal use of bee venom back to
antiquity. Chinese texts dating back 2000 years to mention. Likewise,
Hippocrates (460-377 BC.), The father of medicine, considered the venom as an
ideal remedy to treat arthritis and joint problems. In the nineteenth century,
the Austrian physician Phillip Terc, a pioneer of apitherapy in modern
medicine, used bee venom to treat rheumatic diseases. In its report published
in 1888 (Report about a peculiar connection between le bees tings and
rheumatism), he reported no complications occurred during the 25 years during
which he has treated over 500 patients suffering from rheumatism, and performed
more 39 000 treatments.
Charles Mraz is also considered a master of apitherapy. He
has practiced for over 60 years both as a beekeeper and therapist in the state
of Vermont in the United States, and transmitted its know-how around the world
until his death in 1999. In 1928, Franz Kretchy has developed a technique to
circumvent direct bee sting venom by injecting a solution using a syringe.
Although the approach is controversial, it has continued to attract interest.
Several organizations, which include individuals as well as organizations
involved in apitherapy and related fields, including the American Apitherapy Apitherapy.com
and Society, ensure to transmit the most recent discoveries in the field (see
Sites of interest) .
Data on the effectiveness of apitherapy rely almost solely
on anecdotal evidence. There is no scientific studies have demonstrated that
the therapeutic effects of a truly convincing. However, recent research has
identified, in part, the venom components that are responsible for its action.
It does contain some anti-inflammatory agents, including adolapin and melittin.
Known to be 100 times more potent than hydrocortisone, melittin stimulates the
production of cortisol, a steroid hormone that also acts as an
anti-inflammatory. In general, there is agreement that these components have a
tonic and stimulant, they strengthen the immune system and help to detoxify the
body.
Allergy to bee venom
An estimated 2% (some sources say up to 5%) of the
population seraitallergique to bee venom. However, in rare cases, this allergy
can be fatal. Before initiating therapy, it is best to undergo an allergy test.
It is also recommended to always have within reach an epinephrine auto-injector
(EpiPen ®, Twinject ®).
