You bring up a very good point - that the beestings and the pain disappearing (no need for medication) are associated experiences. Yes, this is science and has been documented and studied and currently being studied. Even the FDA has approved of a Phase I study to identify the working components of bee venom and the relief associated with them. The American Apitherapy Society (even myself) would be glad to speak/communicate offline with you on what you need to do to work with bee venom for aches & pains (generally attributed to some type of arthritis). As for the itching associated with the stings -- give it time. We have found that after 60 stings, you don't itch any more. You may still swell up, but that's a normal reaction. Jean-Francois Lariviere http://hometown.aol.com/BeeHealthy/beehive.htm NYC NY << I also have had neck injuries/surgeries and take 1800mg ibupropen or relafen daily. no reaction from stings, usually don't get stung but when the bees are pmsing and I get 4 or 5 stings(after that I put on long pants and shirt) I do not need any medication for 3 or 4 days. It is qutie amazing. >>