Even after the stinger is separated from the bee, its muscular mechanism can continue to force its venom into the wound. Because venom continues to be injected by the stinging mechanism, the stinger should be removed immediately. Most people make the mistake of pulling it out with the thumb and index finger and thereby squeeze more venom into the wound. The stinger should be scraped or scratched out with a fingernail. Other stinging Hymenoptera, such as yellow jackets, wasps, and hornets, retain their stingers.
Bee venom is a water-clear liquid with a sharp, bitter taste and a distinct acid reaction.
The specific gravity is 1.1313. The venom is easily soluble in water and acid, but almost insoluble in alcohol. 1 Research entomologist, Science and Education Administration, Bioenvironmental Bee Laboratory, Beltsville, Md. 20705. Recent work reveals that bee venom is a very complicated substance with several active bio chemical components. At least eight active components plus several biological inactive components have been identified.