I've never used meat tenderizer on bee stings, but this is a common field first aid technique for various bites. Papain is an enzyme, and enzymes digest molecules. The various chemicals injected by mosquitos, sting rays and bees cause an immune response (itch, pain swelling) which can be lessened if the offending molecule is digested or in some other way neutralized. Ammonia (a strong base) can have the same affect by altering the pH of the injected venom; it certainly makes mosquito bites itch less. Amazing, isn't it. Carol K. Malcolm Central Texas Beekeeper [log in to unmask]