I have carried Adolph's Meat Tenderizer for years for jellyfish stings, but never had to use it. Is there any scientific evidence that it works? I've heard that it's the papaya extract (papain) that breaks down the stinging compound. <br><br>Does anyone have anything else that they have used successfully? Or have you had success with Adolph's?<br><br>Thanks -<br><br>MB

Mama, <br><br>No experience with Adolphs (sp?). I've only been stung a few times by a jellyfish. Only once was the sting bad enough to require treatment. I used urine (my own---easy to use when stung on the ankle, as I was. Other places would have required a "trick shot" or a container. Females should stick to containers, for obvious reasons.) It worked btw.<br><br><br>Take care,<br><br>Andy

No scientific evidence, but anecdotal. I've used Adolph's when I had a lot of the relatively mild stings from the type of jellyfish known as "sea nettles". These were mild enough that I didn't even really notice them in the water, until I came ashore and my skin was exposed to air. Adolph's provided immediate relief.<br><br>I, too, have heard that it's the papya. I can't confirm that, or that it's effective on more serious stings, though I've heard that it is.

For jellyfish stings use vinegar. The acid in the vinegar prevents the residual stingers on the tentacles from discharging and don't try to wash off with normal water or use your bare hands.<br>The vinegar also stops the pain of the sting.<br>Vinegar works well on leeches too......or a little salt n pepa....<br><br>

Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. Will load up on some Adolph's, vinegar, and water to drink (for Andy's self-medication trick :-) just in case).<br><br>Hopefully I won't need any of these!<br><br>MB

I treat between 50 and 75 patients a season with jellyfish stings. They are, IMHO, best treated with white vinegar soaked compresses.