Hmm, this description from WebMD is similar to the information about HVDC--no one really knows what's happening. There are theories, but apparently little or no definitive scientific evidence to explain how it works. Nevertheless, with both hot water and HVDC, experience seems to demonstrate that there is some merit to the method.

Come to think of it, I'm not sure which treatment seems more far fetched at first blush--using hot water or electro-shock to treat a bite/sting. Science can often be surprising and weird. <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />