Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Bee venom has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly in East Asian practices, but in recent years, its use for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has attracted scientific interest. Bee venom contains various active compounds, including melittin and adolapin, which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties in preclinical studies. Some small-scale clinical trials and animal studies suggest that bee venom acupuncture or injections may reduce joint inflammation and pain in RA patients. For example, a randomized controlled trial published in Rheumatology (2005) found modest reductions in pain and morning stiffness among participants receiving bee venom acupuncture compared to controls.

However, the overall quality of evidence remains low. Most studies to date are small, lack rigorous blinding, or have methodological limitations. Systematic reviews highlight the need for larger, well-designed trials to confirm efficacy and safety. Moreover, there are significant safety concerns, as bee venom can cause allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, in susceptible individuals. Thus, while there is a scientific rationale and preliminary human data, the evidence base is not strong enough to recommend bee venom as a mainstream treatment for RA, and its use is generally considered experimental.

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