“You should pee on a jellyfish sting to alleviate pain.”

The idea that urinating on a jellyfish sting will alleviate the pain is a widely recognized but ultimately harmful misconception. Far from providing relief, applying urine can actually worsen the stinging sensation and cause more venom (Review) to be released into the skin. This is because urine is primarily freshwater, and the freshwater can trigger the remaining stinging cells, called nematocysts, to discharge more venom. The velocity of the urine stream can also agitate these delicate cells, intensifying the discomfort.

The origin of this persistent myth is somewhat unclear, though it likely stems from a flawed understanding of urine's chemical composition. Some believed that compounds like ammonia and urea in urine could neutralize the venom. However, the concentration of these substances in human urine is far too low to have any beneficial effect. The misconception has been further perpetuated by popular culture, with memorable scenes in television shows like Friends (Review) contributing to its widespread belief.

People often cling to this myth out of desperation for a quick fix when faced with the intense pain of a jellyfish sting. The immediate agony can lead individuals to try any suggested remedy, especially if it's been presented as a solution in media or by word of mouth. However, scientific evidence consistently shows that this approach is ineffective and counterproductive. Instead of urine, it is recommended to rinse the affected area with seawater or vinegar to deactivate the stinging cells, and then carefully remove any visible tentacles.