I knew when I received the Therapik it would not take long to put it to good use. As I moved a trailer to hook it to the back of my truck, I was greeted by a swarm of wasps and got stung twice before I could get away. I was prepared and had the nine-volt battery ready to install into the Therapik.

The Therapik is a portable hand-held device that, simply put, produces infrared heat at low voltage and with that heat neutralizes the thermolabile venom associated with bee, wasp, hornets, black flies, jellyfish, and mosquito stings. It is a lightweight device (less than four ounces) and fits in the palm of your hand. I can testify this is a product you want around the house, at your camp, or anywhere stings can occur.

In more technical terms, the Therapik raises the temperature of the tissue around the bite to 50 to 60 degrees centigrade (122 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit) to a depth of about 2 millimeters. You apply the heat for about 30 seconds to destroy the effect of the venom by increasing localized blood flow. For this reason, it is imperative you apply the Therapik immediately after a sting. Secondarly, the soothing heat of the Therapik relieves itching and irritation caused by fleas and stinging nettles.

It should be noted the device does not stop allergic reactions, so medical attention may still be required. I swell like a tick and if I get stung near my throat or nasal area, I need to get to the ER quickly. You can see by one of the pictures swelling will still occur. It also does not work on spider, scorpion, or snake bites.

Studies of the efficacy of the Therapik have been conducted in Venezuela, France, Italy, and the Mascarene Islands with excellent results for over 20 years. Testimonials are also prevalent and supportive of the product and reviews on major online retailer sites are also high.

I was able to immediately apply the Therapik to my two stings; one on my hand and one on my leg. It was remarkable that within 30 seconds I felt the burning stop. The heat is very tolerable but you do not want to push too hard on the device against your skin. You can feel the heat, but it is not uncomfortable. Per the instructions you can apply the heat for 20 to 30 seconds or until the heat is uncomfortable. I still had swelling, but went on with my day without any pain. I really see this as useful for those with a low tolerance for pain and for children. It is soothing and it does work. And at an MSRP of only $12.95, it’s an incredibly affordable piece of kit.

Images by David Vaught