WARNING: Sea urchins are part of the animal life of the Indian Ocean.
Accordingly, there are varying populations of sea urchins on Zanzibar’s beaches. There are fewer in the north than in the east. Children in particular should wear water shoes; adults can decide for themselves. Below are a few tips on how locals treat sea urchin injuries.
Lime juice / lemon: The acid helps to dissolve the sea urchin’s calcareous spines, which are often so deep that they cannot be removed with tweezers.
Papaya milk: The white liquid from an unripe papaya contains enzymes that neutralize the toxin and accelerate healing.
Hot water: The venom of most sea urchins is protein-based and is broken down by heat (as hot as one can just barely tolerate).
Note: As a preventative measure, wearing flip-flops or shower shoes can help avoid the problem (and the pain) in the first place.