Apis
(Apis mellifica · Honeybee)
The remedy of puffy, stinging swelling. In the materia medica, Apis is associated with the picture of a bee sting: rosy, puffy swelling with burning, stinging pain, sensitivity to touch and a strong aversion to heat.
Source
The whole honeybee
Kingdom
Animal
Abbreviation
Apis
Home acute kit
Usually prescribed by a homeopath
The classic picture
(a remedy is chosen when the whole picture fits the person, not from a single symptom)
Swelling and puffiness, often rosy-pink, with burning, stinging pains
Very sensitive to touch; hot, stuffy rooms are unbearable
Usually thirstless, even when feverish
Can be fidgety, irritable and hard to please, or tearful; may become clumsy and drop things
Tends to feel better
Cold applications and cold bathing
Open air
Uncovering
Tends to feel worse
Heat in any form
Touch and pressure
Late afternoon
After sleeping
How it compares
(remedies that are often confused with Apis)
-
Urtica urens
(Urtica urens)
Urtica's burning, itchy welts are like nettle stings; Apis has more puffy, waterlogged swelling.
Read moreCompare side by side -
Cantharis
(Cantharis vesicatoria)
Both burn intensely; Cantharis is more violent and urgent, with a fierce, raw burning.
Read moreCompare side by side -
Ledum
(Ledum palustre)
Ledum's swollen bites feel cold and are soothed by cold; Apis's feel hot and rosy.
Read moreCompare side by side
Side-by-side comparisons
Free printable guide
12 remedies to keep at home
When to think of each one, how to tell them apart, when to call a doctor instead and a printable home remedy guide.
Get the free guide
From the classic texts
“Swelling or puffing up of various parts, oedema, red rosy hue, stinging pains, soreness, intolerance of heat, and slightest touch, and afternoon aggravation are some of the general guiding symptoms.”
“Women, specially widows; children and girls who, though generally careful, become awkward, and let things fall while handling them (Bov.).”
Looking for more than a quick remedy?
Acute remedies can be a starting point for short-term complaints. Ongoing or recurring issues call for a full case: a detailed conversation about your physical, mental and emotional symptoms, so the remedy fits you as a whole person.
Book free intro callThis page is for education only and is not medical advice. Homeopathy is complementary care, not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a licensed medical provider. Seek medical care for severe, worsening or emergency symptoms. Please view our Disclaimer.