How do you calm hives naturally
How to Get Rid of Hives: The Best Natural Ways to Treat Hives
Hives are red itchy bumps on the surface of the skin that can range in size from a very small spot to a large raised welt. The medical term for hives is urticaria and some people also refer to hives as nettle rash. The itchy patches caused by hives can affect your face, hands, as well as other areas of the body and they can be triggered by something that produces an allergic reaction an allergen. This article will help you find natural treatments for hives that will help you get rid of them. I am also going to mention natural ways to help you prevent outbreaks of hives.
If you suffer from hives you know that it can be difficult to find exactly what triggers them. Especially for people who have chronic hives, the condition can affect daily activities and cause emotional stress.
Lets look at natural ways to treat hives (urticaria) and to relieve the itching that comes with the condition.
What Causes Hives?
Hives are usually caused by an allergic reaction in the body to food or medication. Dr. Jennifer Robinson on WebMD says that the most common causes of hives are foods like nuts, fish, chocolate, eggs, tomatoes, and milk. Also certain food additives can cause hives in some people. Alcohol and caffeine can also trigger hives.1 Medications that can cause hives include aspirin, ibuprofen, and some kinds of high blood pressure medication.
The Mayo Clinic also points out that hives can be caused by stress, extremes in temperature, exercise and sunlight.2 In some cases, Celiac disease can be an underlying cause of chronic hives.3
If hives last for more than six weeks, it is classed as chronic urticaria and doctors say that it is very difficult to find the cause of this type of hives.
Hives shouldnt be confused with angioedema. This is also an allergic reaction but it causes swelling beneath the skin, not on the surface of the skin. It also causes itchiness like hives.
Home Remedies for Hives
There are many natural treatments for hives which can help to reduce the itchiness, relieve the swelling and, in some cases, prevent hives. Lets look at the best natural ways to get rid of hives.
Natural Antihistamines
The University of Maryland Medical Center says that when the body has an allergic reaction, it releases histamine into the blood. This results in itching, swelling, and redness, which is common in hives.
Most doctors prescribe antihistamines to get rid of hives. While these can be effective in treating an occasional outbreak of hives, many people prefer to look for natural antihistamines for hives, especially chronic urticaria.
Quercetin for chronic hives
Quercetin is a naturally occurring antihistamine which can help to treat hives. Quercetin is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory which occurs naturally in olive oil, grapes, apples, dark cherries, citrus fruits, tea, and red wine.4 A study published in PLos One found that in clinical trials quercetin was more effective than cromolyn (a medication used to treat allergy reactions) in reducing allergic responses in the body.5
To help reduce the outbreak of chronic hives, you can use quercetin supplements. This is because some foods, although high in quercetin, also have high levels of histamines and can make the allergy worse.
Stinging Nettle for hives
Another herbal remedy to prevent and treat hives is stinging nettle (Urtica dioica). It seems a paradox that the stinging nettle causes hives (nettle rash) when it comes in contact with the skin. However, it has the opposite result when its ingested it acts like an antihistamine.
A study into using stinging nettle supplements found that around half of the participants rated it equally or more effective than their previous antihistamine medicine.6
To use stinging nettle to treat hives and other allergic reactions, it is recommended to take 300 mg/day of freeze-dried stinging nettle.
You can also make a nettle tea by putting 1 tsp. dried stinging nettle into a cup of boiling water (triple the amount if using fresh nettle), cover for 5 minutes, then drink. Alternatively, you can let the nettle tea cool down and then dab a cotton ball in the tea and apply to the hives for relief from the red itchy bumps on the surface of the skin.
For more information read my article about the best natural antihistamines to fight allergic reactions.
Essential Oils
There are many essential oils which can help to reduce the itchiness caused by hives.
Chamomile essential oil
Chamomile essential oil can soothe itchiness caused by hives. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology showed that an extract of German chamomile (Matricaria recutita L) had potent anti-allergenic properties which can inhibit the release of histamine.7
To make a soothing chamomile application for hives, you can mix 5 drops of chamomile essential oil in a tablespoon of coconut oil or other carrier oil and apply to the skin to relieve the symptoms of hives.
You can also make a soothing skin wash to help get a relief from hives. Combine 5 drops chamomile oil, 2 drops peppermint oil, 3 tablespoons baking soda and 2 cups of water in a bowl. Using a soft cloth, apply to the hives until the itching has reduced.
If you dont have chamomile essential oil, you can make some chamomile tea and use it as a natural remedy for hives. Put 1-2 tsp. dried chamomile into a cup of boiling water, cover the cup and let it infuse for 10 minutes. When the tea has cooled down, apply the tea using a cotton ball to the affected area to alleviate the itchiness caused by hives.
Lavender essential oil
Lavender oil can also provide relief from the symptoms of hives and it is one of the best essential oils for allergies. It is known that lavender oil has an anti-inflammatory effect on asthma when used in aromatherapy. However, lavender can also have an anti-inflammatory effect on hives when applied topically. A study in the Journal of pharmacy and pharmacology showed that it can inhibit allergic skin reactions.8
Generally, essential oils should never be applied directly on the skin. However, you can use lavender oil directly on the skin on very small areas. Using a cotton swab, you can apply a small amount of lavender essential oil to soothe the itching caused by hives. For extra moisturization, or if you have a sensitive skin or use it for a larger area, mix a few drops of lavender essential oil with a tablespoon of a carrier oil like coconut oil, olive oil or jojoba oil and then massage into the affected area to relieve the itchiness of hives.
You can also add lavender oil to a bath to treat itchy hives. You should mix a few drops of lavender oil per one tablespoon of a carrier oil and add to a warm bath. This will not only help you get a relief from the itchiness cause by hives, but will help you relax and reduce your stress levels, which can also be a cause of hives.
If you are interested to learn more about essential oils you can find useful information in my e-book Magical Aromatherapy. This e-book will help you to discover the power of essential oils and the most effective ways to use them.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is an excellent natural treatment for hives and you can add it to your bath to alleviate the itchiness. The Mayo Clinic recommends taking a cool bath with oatmeal to relieve itching.9 This method is also backed up by scientific research. The Journal of Drugs in Dermatology reported that oatmeal acts as a protective anti-inflammatory agent in protecting the skin and reducing itching.11
Here is how to make a colloidal oatmeal (oatmeal bath) to stop the itching caused by hives:
- Put 2 cups of ground oatmeal into a long tube sock or old pair of pantyhose and tie loosely.
- Draw a bath with tepid water making sure that the oatmeal sock is under the faucet.
- Every so often, squeeze the sock to get more of the oat liquid out.
- Soak in the tub and dab the oat sock onto the hives to get a relief from itching.
Be careful coming out of the bath because the oatmeal liquid can make the bath slippery.
For even better relief from itching caused by hives, you can add a few drops of lavender oil mixed with a carrier oil to the bath.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural home remedy to get rid of the itching caused by hives. The Mayo Clinic also recommends adding baking soda to a bath to help relieve itchy skin.9
To make a bath with baking soda for relief from itchy skin you should add about 1 cup of baking soda to a bath and soak for 20 minutes.
Or you can make a baking soda paste to get rid of itchy hives. Mix enough water with 1 tbsp. baking soda to make a smooth paste. Apply to the hives to relieve the itch. Rinse off with cool water.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
One of the many uses of apple cider vinegar is to reduce itching on the skin. You can try using ACV to see if it will relieve itching caused by hives.
You can mix equal amounts of raw unprocessed ACV and water and then apply to the affected areas using a cotton ball. For more information please read my article on why you should wash your face with apple cider vinegar.
Cold compress for hives
A cold compress gives instant relief from the itching caused by hives.
You should put some ice in a bag and then wrap it in a towel. Put the ice pack on the hives for quick relief from the itchiness. Dont leave the cold pack on for longer than 10 minutes at a time and remember never to put ice directly onto the skin.
This remedy, however, wont be effective for people whose hives are caused by extreme cold (a rare cause of hives).
How to Prevent Hives
To prevent hives its important to know what triggers your symptoms.
By keeping a food diary you can possibly identify foods that bring on bouts of hives. Some of the most common foods are fish, shellfish, tomatoes, pineapple, strawberries, nuts and chocolate. Alcohol and caffeine can also trigger hives.1, 10
Because different types of medications can cause hives, you should speak to your doctor if you think that your hives are connected with your medication.
Stress can affect your body in many ways, and is also a reason that hives appear. You can help make your hives go away by taking positive steps to reduce stress in your life. Some people find relief from hives by using aromatherapy, exercise, meditation or by practicing deep breathing techniques.
Read these related articles:1. The Best Natural Antihistamines to Fight Allergic Reactions2. The Top 15 Essential Oils for Allergies Updated and Backed by Science
How to treat hives
Home remedies and medications can help treat hives quickly and effectively. Examples include cold compresses, aloe vera, antihistamines, and more.
Hives are intensely itchy, discolored, raised areas of skin. They may occur anywhere on the body. Hives usually have a trigger, both allergic and non-allergic.
While the symptoms of hives can be very irritating, there are many ways to treat, soothe, and get rid of them.
In this article, we detail how to treat hives at home, medical options, and possible complications.
What does hives look like? Pictures and more
People often use home remedies to treat hives and do not seek further medical attention or intervention. In fact, many cases of hives disappear naturally within minutes or hours of appearing. Most often, symptoms of hives will disappear within 24 hours, but in some cases, it may take a few days.
Effective home remedies to treat hives include:
- Applying a cold compress: A person can apply a cool, damp cloth to the affected area. This can provide relief from itchiness and help reduce inflammation. A person can use a cold compress as often as necessary.
- Bathing in an anti-itch solution: Oatmeal and baking soda baths can soothe skin and reduce irritation. Adding witch hazel to a bath is another effective home remedy.
- Applying aloe vera: The healing properties of aloe vera may soothe and reduce hives. However, it is best to do a patch test before applying aloe vera to a wider area.
- Avoiding irritants: This includes perfumes, fragranced soaps or moisturizers, and staying out of the sun. A person should also aim to maintain a comfortable temperature and wear loose, cotton clothing.
Some people with chronic hives
In more severe cases of hives, medical treatment may be preferable. Some over-the-counter options include:
People with more severe and persistent hives may need to see a dermatologist. These doctors specialize in conditions of the skin, hair, and nails.
Hives are a skin condition that usually results in a raised, itchy rash. There are several different types of hives, although the effects are mostly the same.
Hives may be the same color as the surrounding skin or may have a reddish hue. This discoloration may be less evident on darker skin tones.
Learn more about hives on black skin here.
Acute urticaria and acute angioedema
Acute urticaria is a short-lived type of hives. In this condition, rashes last less than 6 weeks and usually occur due to an adverse or allergic reaction to certain foods or medications. Urticaria only affects the upper layer of the skin, called the dermis.
Infections and insect bites can also cause this type of rash.
Angioedema is the rapid swelling of the area beneath the skin, known as the mucosa. A person with hives will not always experience this type of swelling. Angioedema can occur with many different disorders.
Acute angioedema can occur with acute urticaria and is essentially anaphylaxis of the subcutaneous tissues. It is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition.
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction. It can lead to anaphylactic shock, which can be fatal.
Learn more about anaphylaxis and anaphylactic shock here.
Chronic urticaria and chronic angioedema
Chronic urticaria and chronic angioedema last for more than 6 weeks.
In these conditions, a person will typically experience daily, or almost daily, symptoms without an allergic, infectious, or drug-related cause.
Chronic urticaria and chronic angioedema more commonly result from underlying medical causes, such as thyroid disease, cancer, or hepatitis.
Hives affect around 20% of people at some point during their lifetime. They are more common in children and female adults than in male adults.
A hives outbreak happens when high levels of histamine and other chemical messengers release into the skin, causing a rash and other symptoms to surface.
The high levels of histamine cause blood vessels in the affected area to open up and start to leak. The resulting fluid in the tissues causes swelling and itchiness.
Different triggers may cause a person to have an outbreak of hives. Some common causes include:
- an allergic reaction to food, an insect bite, or an animal
- a reaction to a plant irritant, such as nettles
- an infection, such as the flu or a cold
- certain medications
- preservatives and food additives
If hives develop, it is useful to identify the trigger. Factors that can worsen hives include:
Physical urticaria
The effects of heat exposure and overheating can cause a type of hives called physical urticaria.
Common triggers for physical urticaria include:
- extreme heat or cold
- overexposure to the sun
- excessive sweating
- clothes rubbing the skin
This rash rarely spreads beyond its original location.
Some people experience dermatographism, a type of physical urticaria. This condition occurs
Some people refer to dermatographism as skin writing. The condition is
What is the difference between hives and a rash? Pictures and more
The severity of a hives can vary between individuals. Most symptoms are manageable at home, but medical attention may be necessary in some cases.
A person should see a doctor if:
- symptoms last more than a few days
- symptoms worsen over time
- the rash is painful or leaves a bruise
- symptoms interfere with daily life
- they experience dizziness
A person will need immediate medication attention if they experience:
- any swelling of the tongue, mouth, or throatSimilarly
- difficulty breathing
- tightness in their chest
A doctor will examine the rash and ask questions to determine the cause. Doctors may also use blood and allergy tests to rule out specific causes.
Hives are usually treatable and do not cause complications on their own. However, in more severe cases, angioedema may occur.
Angioedema is a buildup of fluid in layers of the skin that causes swelling and can affect the eyes, lips, hands, feet, and genitals. Doctors can prescribe medication to manage and reduce swelling.
Recurrent hives can negatively impact the quality of a persons life, causing them to feel stressed or anxious and can even lead to depression. A person should always speak to a doctor if hives are affecting their quality of life.
Here are some questions people often ask about hives.
How do you treat hives naturally?
Ways of treating hives naturally include:
- avoiding scratching
- applying a cool compress
- bathing in lukewarm water with colloidal oatmeal
- wearing loose, cotton clothing
- avoiding soaps with fragrances or strong chemicals
- applying aloe vera
What is the fastest remedy for hives?
A cool compress may offer immediate relief from discomfort, but topical medicines may be more effective. Ask a pharmacist about over-the-counter options.
Hives are a skin condition that results in itchy, raised, patches of skin. There may also be discoloration.
Hive can result from allergic or non-allergic causes. Home remedies and medications can often reduce symptoms.
People with severe hives may have a risk of further complications. A person should seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, ongoing, or affect their quality of life.
