Neutralization reaction is defined as a mixture of an acid and a base. Why is this reaction related to insect bites? Neutralization applies to a natural phenomenon: the antidote against bee sting venom.
The venom injected by a bee's stinger is acidic, so just deduce: what does it take to neutralize this venom? The presence of a base. This is exactly how the treatment against the attack of this insect is done, applying milk of magnesia which has a basic character in the place of the bite. You can also apply compresses soaked in ammonia or bicarbonate solution, both of which are basic solutions.
The opposite occurs in the treatment against injuries caused by wasp stings, this insect injects a basic poison on the individual's skin, relief is obtained with the application of vinegar (acid acetic).
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By Líria Alves
Graduated in Chemistry
Would you like to reference this text in a school or academic work? Look:
SOUZA, Líria Alves de. "Insect Bite and Neutralization Reaction";
Brazil School. Available in: https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/quimica/picada-inseto-reacao-neutralizacao.htm. Accessed on June 27, 2021.
