Of all the species of spiders, only selected few have fangs long enough and venom strong enough to cause any significant medical repercussions for humans. For instance, an overwhelming majority of the 3000 species of spiders found in the US are nontoxic, with only the black widow and brown recluse capable of engendering any serious systemic reactions in the human body. But despite the severity of these bites, the damage is rarely ever fatal.
Causes of Spider Bite
You can take comfort in the knowledge that unlike a lot many blood-sucking insects and bugs, spiders are not parasitic or predatory in nature. These eight-legged arthropods do not bite to feed on humans but, more likely, as a defense mechanism. This is precisely the reason most spiders prefer to reside in reclusive, isolated areas and settings such as closets, garages, sheds, woodpiles, and attics.
Given that spiders, barring a few exceptions, usually bear feeble fangs incapable of puncturing the skin to insert the venom, most spider bites, medically known as arachnidism, are not a matter of concern.(3) It is, however, not uncommon for skin rashes and sores inflicted by other bogus or stemming from an unrelated infection to be mistaken for spider bites. Furthermore, spider bites can even trigger allergic reactions in some people.
Symptoms of Spider Bite
Bites from most spiders usually generate mild symptoms such as:
- Localized inflammation
- Redness around the bite
- Pain like that of a bee sting around the bite site, which typically sets in within an hour or two of being bitten
- Itching
However, bites from poisonous spiders like black widow or brown recluse spiders that generally live in undisturbed areas can be dangerous.(4)
Symptoms of a black widow spider bite:
- Fang marks or two tiny holes at the affected site
- Pain that sets in within an hour of envenomation and can range from mild to severe and spread from the bite site to the abdomen, back, or chest.
- Severe muscular cramps in the abdomen that are similar to the pain emanating from a ruptured appendix.
- Sweating
- A headache
- Chills
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tachycardia
- Bite site that may become increasingly red or swollen over time
Symptoms of a brown recluse spider bite:
- Pain at the affected site that progressively intensifies for the first 8 hours
- Bite site that may develop a blister that is pale, blue, or purple, with maybe a bit of redness around the periphery.
- Stiff and painful joints
- Fever and chills
- Bodyache
- Bites take at least a week to form a crust
- The bitten area is dry and devoid of any pus
- Muscle cramps
- Vomiting
- Labored breathing
Symptoms of an allergic reaction triggered by a spider bite:
- Swollen face or mouth
- Tightness in the chest and wheezing
- Difficulty in breathing, swallowing or speaking
Depending on the type of spider, the symptoms may last a few hours to several days or even weeks.
Prevention of Spider Bite
- To prevent spider bites, wear a long-sleeve shirt and pants, a hat, gloves, and boots when handling stored boxes or firewood.
- Be extra careful when cleaning out sheds, garages, basements, attics, and crawl spaces.
- Inspect and shake out gardening tools that have not been in use for a while.
- Keep spiders out of the house by installing tight-fitting screens on windows and doors.
- Discard old boxes, clothing, and other unwanted items from storage areas.
- Remove piles of rocks from your garden area.
When to See a Doctor
It is recommended to get medical help, especially if you experience symptoms such as:
- Severe swelling
- Intense pain and stiffness
- Muscle spasms
- Fever and chills
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Difficulty breathing
- Lightheadedness (2)(4)
At times, the bite may not appear to be serious immediately but may become severe after some time.
When treating spider bites, the main goal is to neutralize the bite and get rid of any toxins in the body. Many effective home remedies can ease the symptoms and promote healing. If symptoms fail to subside after a few days, see a doctor.
Here are the top 10 home remedies that help heal spider bites naturally.
1. Ice Pack
When bitten by a spider, the first thing you need to do is to disinfect the wound by cleaning it with mild soap and water. Then, apply an ice pack on the affected area. The cold temperature will help numb the nerve endings, soothe the itching sensation, and reduce swelling and inflammation.(5)
- Wrap a few ice cubes in a thin towel and place it on the affected area, only for 10 minutes at a stretch. Continue doing this on and off for as long as needed, during the initial 24 hours.
- You can also put the affected area under cool running water for a few minutes.
2. Baking Soda
Baking soda is an effective treatment for spider bites. This alkaline substance can help draw out the venom responsible for all the discomforting symptoms, thereby reducing pain, itching, and inflammation.(6)
- Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 3 teaspoons of water.
- With the help of a cotton ball, apply this mixture on the affected area and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Wash the area with lukewarm water.
- If the discomfort persists, repeat after a few hours.
3. Salt
Salt is another easy remedy due to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.(7) It can effectively withdraw the venom from the wounded site to promote quick recovery. In addition, it reduces inflammation and redness.
- Wash the affected area thoroughly with lukewarm water.
- Sprinkle some table salt on a wet washcloth. (You can also use kosher or sea salt.)
- Bandage this washcloth onto the affected part for a couple of hours, and then remove it.
- Re-apply as needed.
4. Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is another treatment option. It has an innate absorption property that helps draw out and remove toxic substances from the body.(8) After the toxic substance is out of the body, the inflammation and tenderness reduce automatically.
- Make a paste of some activated charcoal using a little water. Apply it on the affected area after cleaning it thoroughly with warm water. To keep the paste in place, put a bandage over it. Repeat every 3 hours for the first day to neutralize the toxin. If needed, follow the remedy the next day also.
- You can also take activated charcoal capsules, after running it by your doctor.
5. Potatoes
Another easy and effective method is to use a starchy potato. It can bring down the itching and inflammation,(9) largely due to its anti-irritant and soothing properties. In addition, it keeps the affected area moisturized to encourage quick healing.
- Peel and grate 1 large potato after washing it thoroughly.
- Put a handful of the wet potato shreds into a piece of thin cloth and tie it securely.
- Clean the affected area with rubbing alcohol, and then put the potato poultice on it.
- Leave it until the potato begins to dry.
- Discard the old potato poultice, and clean the area with warm water.
- Re-apply fresh poultice, repeating until the symptoms improve.
6. Aspirin
You can also relieve minor symptoms of spider bites using aspirin. It works to counteract the toxic effects of the venom to promote quick recovery. In addition, it boasts of strong anti-inflammatory properties(10) that can help bring down swelling and inflammation.
- Soak 1 to 2 aspirin tablets in a little water to form a paste.
- Apply this paste on the affected area.
- Leave it on for a couple of hours, and then wash it off with lukewarm water.
- Repeat 1 or 2 more times, if needed.
7. Turmeric
This spice is a natural painkiller containing anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antioxidant properties.(11) Needless to say, turmeric is a safe and readily available adjunctive treatment for reducing the pain, swelling, and inflammation caused by a spider bite.
- Mix 1 to 2 teaspoons of turmeric powder with enough olive oil to form a paste. Apply this paste on the affected area. Allow it to sit for 10 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water.
- Alternatively, mix 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder, a handful of thoroughly washed Indian lilac (neem) leaves, and a little water in a blender to make a thick paste. Apply it on the affected area, leave it on for 20 minutes, and then rinse it off with warm water.
- Repeat either of these remedies a few times.
8. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice also has a mitigating effect on the itching, swelling, and inflammation induced by the spider bite and thus can prove helpful in alleviating the discomfort. Being a natural astringent,(12) it also helps quickly dry out skin rashes caused by spider bites as well as prevent infection.
- Extract the juice from a fresh lemon and apply it on the affected area using a cotton ball. Let it dry, and then rinse it off with lukewarm water.
- Alternatively, you can take a piece of lemon and rub it against the affected area for 2 to 3 minutes. Wait for another 5 minutes, and then rinse it off.
- Follow either of these remedies a few times a day.
9. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera gel is a skin salve of considerable merit, having been used for centuries in the treatment of a number of skin conditions. This gel has natural antiseptic as well as anti-inflammatory and soothing properties(13) that can help reduce pain, swelling, and itching emanating from spider bites. Additionally, this all-natural balm helps keep the affected area moisturized.
- Thoroughly wash an aloe vera leaf.
- Slit it open to extract the gel.
- Apply this fresh gel on the affected area.
- Re-apply a few times a day for a few days.
10. Peppermint
This herb exhibits anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that help relieve pain, swelling, and inflammation.(14) It even soothes and calms itchiness caused by spider bites.
- Rub freshly extracted peppermint juice on the affected area. Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing it off with cool water. Repeat once or twice more, if needed.
- Alternatively, apply 1 or 2 drops of peppermint oil directly on the affected area 2 or 3 times a day.
Additional Tips
- Monitor the bite for a couple of days to keep a check on how well the symptoms are healing.
- If you happen to spot the spider that bit you, try to memorize its appearance as identifying the species can help zero in on the appropriate treatment plan.
Resources:
- Juckett G. Arthropod Bites. American Family Physician. https://www.aafp.org/afp/2013/1215/p841.html. Published December 15, 2013.
- Rahmani F, Khojasteh SMB, Rahmani F. Poisonous Spiders: Bites, Symptoms, and Treatment; an Educational Review. Emergency. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4614586/. Published 2014.
- Vetter RS, Isbister GK. Medical Aspects of Spider Bites. Annual Reviews. https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/abs/10.1146/annurev.ento.53.103106.093503?rfr_dat=cr_pub=pubmed&url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori:rid:crossref.org&.=&journalCode=ento. Published September 17, 2007.
- Gaisford K, Kautz DD. Black widow spider bite: a case study. Dimensions of Critical Care Nursing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21307681. Published 2011.
- Kemp ED. Bites and stings of the arthropod kind. Treating reactions that can range from annoying to menacing. Postgraduate medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9633544.
- Miyasaki KT, Genco RJ, Wilson ME. Antimicrobial properties of hydrogen peroxide and sodium bicarbonate individually and in combination against selected oral, gram-negative, facultative bacteria. Journal of Dental Research. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3016051. Published September 1986.
- Quist SR, Wiswedel I, Quist J. Anti-inflammatory Effects of Topical Formulations Containing Sea Silt and Sea Salt on Human Skin In Vivo During Cutaneous Microdialysis. Acta Dermato-Venereologica. https://www.medicaljournals.se/acta/content/html/10.2340/00015555-1128. Published February 2, 2011.
- Scheer HS, Kaiser M, Zingg U. Results of directly applied activated carbon cloth in chronic wounds: a preliminary study. Journal of Wound Care. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28795884. Published August 2, 2017.
- Bindels LB, Walter J, Ramer-Tait AE. Resistant starches for the management of metabolic diseases. Journal of Wound Care. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26406392. Published November 2015.
- Higuchi S, Osada Y, Shioiri Y, Tanaka N, Otomo S, Aihara H. [The modes of anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions of aspirin and salicylic acid]. Nihon Yakurigaku Zasshi. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/3921440. Published January 1985.
- Menon VP, Sudheer AR. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17569207. Published 2007.
- Oikeh EI, Omoregie ES, Oviasogie FE. Phytochemical, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities of different citrus juice concentrate. Food Science & Nutrition. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4708628/. Published July 30, 2015.
- Visuthikosol V, Chowchuen B, Sukwanarat Y, Sriurairatana S, Boonpucknavig V. Effect of aloe vera gel to healing of burn wound a clinical and histologic study. Journal of Medical Association of Thailand. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7561562. Published August 1995.
- Juergens UR, Stöber M, Vetter H. The anti-inflammatory activity of L-menthol compared to mint oil in human monocytes in vitro: a novel perspective for its therapeutic use in inflammatory diseases. European journal of medical research. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/9889172. Published December 16, 1998.
The baking soda works AMAZING!!
I had 8 spider bites on my leg and they were swollen, itchy and stinging for two days. I applied the baking soda and in two hours the stinging and itching was gone. I wish I had looked you up sooner. Thank you.
I ĺiķe your home remedies
This article is very helpful. It was the only one of all the medical websites to actually have some information I could use.
Very helpful! Thanks! I had nearly 20 spider bites on my back (which was close to impossible to reach. But, the ice and the baking soda really helped. Also, my mom said try apple cider vinegar – it really helped too! ?
tell me about the apple cider
Yes indeed … couldn’t sleep the whole night and the ice pack and next baking soda has given a lot of relief
This was the most helpful article ever
Trying the salt remedy got a big red puffy spider bite on the back of my leg
Hi your home remedies are fantastic. Really love them.
The Baking soda & ice pack Done wonders!! The stinging n itching are Gone!! Thanks!!!
The Baking soda & Ice pack Done wonders! Thanks so much!
I thank you so much. Yours is the most comprehensive of dozens of sites I’ve just pored over. I appreciate your discerning approach and am ready to start treating my skin. Gratefully, Irene
Very good advice…thank you!
I’m gonna try it was right now,I can’t asleep
My husband got a spider bite from a brown recluse 3 years ago. We were at the camp so was limited to meds. I found a potato sliced off some cut into the cut end. Over night it took all swelling out. We went dr and got antibiotic next day. It worked great. This year 2016 same thing happened so we went with the potato again and it worked. Got antibiotic next day. He said the potato cooled and soothed it also.
Antibiotics should not be prescribed for brown recluse
Well at last some practical advice. Thanks so much!!!!!
HAVE TWO SPIDER BITES ON MY ARM
. THEY ARE PUFFY, AND HAVE TINY WHITE HEADS. WILL TRY THE BAKING SODA.
THE THOUGHT OF THAT BROWN SPIDER IN MY BED, HIVES ME THE CHILLS.
BLESSINGS,
ANNA BELLA
This is the second time I bitten 2. I must of gotten bitten outside cause my house is clean. But anyway I have been uncomfortable for about 4 days now. But I read your site& im going to try the baking soda one. Thanks so much. When my husband got bitten over 30 years ago he ended up in the hospital. It was pretty scary. Thanks so much for your site.
I don’t know what kind of spider it was but I bit me several times on my back. I I’m going to try the bakeing soda. Great information!
I got a bite in my face 5 weeks ago. It turned circular. Very itchy. Have tried everything even steroid cream. Nothing is working
I have 4 bits on my arm when I woke up this morning. red, swelling and itching. I tried the soda and water and it was good. But now I am trying the potatoes it is not itching now at feel cool. I had to have my son help me to tie my arm up.
Spider bites can be very discomforting but not dangerous. However, if the spider is poisonous, it is a red sign. It is hard to differentiate spider bites because they resemble much like ant bites and other insect bites.
OMG, I had a spider bite that just would not go away! I had been dealing with it for three weeks! It was swollen and itchy and just noot looking good. I found this place and used the baking soda idea. Within hours my bite looked 300% better and it even looks like it is going to heal now. Thank you so much
Comment:The inchy it is steel cooling down..i’ve tried the warm water and a salt ..but it looks like is helpful
I just got a spider-bite on my right leg and it big and swollen and hurts like bad but I put a little bit of honey and baking soda with warm water and a pinch of salt it works like heaven?? it went down to my normal size and I just did it over night!!!!!!!!??????
Was bit by a spider 8xs but thanks for all the helpful hints n my doc giving me antibiotics its getting better
Can u put theses things on after they are open wounds
No, if you have open wounds you should see a doctor. Ice and baking soda really work, also Benadryl cream.
Oy, got 8 spider bites inner thigh, crotch to knee! They irritate more than itch, but itch also. I’m going to try one or two of these remedies. Advice, if it develops open sore, get treatment, you don[‘t want it to grow like the photos I’ve seen online. Awful. Also, as the lady said above antibiotics aren’t needed for spider bites. I’m going to try the aspirin and salt first..I just want that thing GONE from my bed NOW. Now sure if new bites, from one night of biting, or a couple of new ones. Could be worse, so I’m thankful I can prob. treat myself. and not have go UC, or ER. Ugh on that!