Why does a caterpillar sting cause pain and itching?

The place stung by the caterpillars often feels painful and itchy. This is because the caterpillars are covered with poisonous hairs. If we observe these poisonous hairs under a microscope, we will find that they are all hollow, just like the needles used for injection. The roots of these poisonous hairs are connected to the poison glands in the caterpillars, which are filled with venom secreted from the venom glands. When human skin comes into contact with the poisonous hairs of the caterpillars, the poisonous hairs will pierce the human skin. Since the poisonous hairs are very fragile, they will be broken immediately after piercing the human skin, and the venom in them will flow into the human skin and flesh from the broken part, making people feel painful.

After being stung by a caterpillar, scrubbing the wound with soapy water or ammonia can relieve the pain and itching.

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