Fact or Myth: Jellyfish stings are cured by urine

By: Alison Baitz

Posted: 9/29/06

MYTH

Attacks by marine life are rarely a laughing matter. With the plethora of dangerous sea creatures present in the deep seas - sharks, whales, porpoises, stingrays - it's no wonder people tend to believe almost everything they hear about the dangers of the ocean.

One of the most realistic predators in the sea is the jellyfish, which can cause some serious injuries.

"My uncle was surfing and got stung by a Portuguese Man-of-War and got paralyzed from the waist down," said Evan Sullivan, a freshman landscape architecture major.

The mere mention of "jellyfish sting" prompts a chorus of "pee on it!" as a remedy. It is believed human urine will cure the sting; however, this notion is entirely incorrect.

"Although it's definitely out there as a folk remedy, urine on jellyfish stings can actually be harmful with some species," said Michelle Gallant, SU wellness educator. "The most frequently recommended treatment is white vinegar."