Science of snake milking: How venom is extracted for medicine

Science of snake milking: How venom is extracted for medicine (Image: Canva)

Snake milking is not a sin as it would sound. It is the sensitive art of harvesting snake venoms out of the vile snakes. This is an essential procedure of making lifesaving antivenoms. Snake milking lead towards new discoveries in medicine. There is precision in the way the snakes are handled by the experts, and human and animal safety is enhanced.

From Fangs to Flask

The trained herpetologists rub the venom glands of the snake during milking and direct the venom into a sterile collection tube. The yield may be different and depend on the species, size, as well as on the health of the snake. Upon collection, the venom is then dried by freeze or refrigeration, awaiting laboratory research or antivenom manufacturing.

Why Venom is more than Poison?

Snake venom may be life threatening but also very helpful in science. The combination of toxins is studied by researchers which later to be used as a treatment of blood diseases, nerve damage and even certain cancers. Each drop can save lives making the weapon of nature a medical partner.

Meet the Venom Experts

Snake milking is performed by professional herpetologists and venom scientists who are trained to address these dangerous beings. Most of these herpetologists work with the reptiles who are capable of biting their victims and killing them. Their experience makes them safe, humane and scientifically worthy.

Where Science Meets Danger

During the extraction of venom, it is done in specialised laboratories, research centres and zoological centres. These laboratory conditions enable scientists to work safely with snakes and extract the venom effectively and close the gap between the wild threat and the life-saving drug.

The Hidden Power in a Drop

From the fearsome fangs of a snake comes a substance that has transformed modern medicine. Snake milking can be dangerous, but it is a very interesting entry point of skills and scientific achievements, when a life-threatening toxin turns into a life-saving instrument.