Hives or Urticaria is a common allergic reaction that's characterized by the appearance of raised itchy, irritated and red skin lesions on various parts of the body. Though the exact cause for hives is not known, they're often the result of cells releasing histamine. Besides, allergic reactions to deodorant, specific food items, medications, pollution are some of the reported causes for hives. This skin condition can be easily and effectively treated with natural remedies. There are many kinds of natural remedies for hives available and some of them are discussed below.
Basil-Tea:
Basil Tea is an effective natural remedy for hives and some other allergic reactions. The affected skin is soaked in basil leaf tea. Basil leaf contains caffeic acid which is an anti-allergen that will soothe your skin and rid of hives. To make basil-tea, add 1 ounce of dried basil leaves to 1 quart of hot-water. Let the mixture to cool down to the room temperature. Now, wash your skin with the tea to get rid of hives.
Baking Soda and Cornstarch Bath:
Fill the tub with warm water and add half a cup of baking-soda and half a cup of cornstarch in the water. Now, soak the body in the mixture for about 30 minutes. Baking soda bath can ease out the irritation caused by hives. If the condition or itching is severe, then you can take this bath twice per day.
Aloe Vera:
Aloe Vera application is one of the simplest yet effective natural cures for hives. With its healing properties, Aloe Vera can relieve burning sensation and itching induced by hives. Aloe Vera is 100% safe on skin and it can reduce swelling in a short period of time.
Turmeric:
Turmeric has been used traditionally for thousands of years to treat various skin conditions. For hives, you can use this herb both externally and internally. A cup of warm milk mixed with turmeric power can be effective to cure hives. Topical application can make your skin smoother and healthier. For better results, you can apply turmeric mixed with lemon juice or mint juice.
Cold Compress:
You can cool your skin with a wet, cold compress. The cool temperature together with moisture can relive itching and inflammation. Apart from cold compress, you can also apply calamine lotion on your skin to produce chilling effect.
Enrich Your Diet:
Including more healthy food items can enhance your overall immune system of the body, thereby decrease the chances of getting hives. Eat fruits like oranges, lemons, tomatoes, raspberries that are rich in Vitamin C. Also add food items that contain acidophilus for optimal digestive-health to lessen the duration of hives. Yoghurt that had live active-cultures, sauerkraut and cottage-cheese are some rich sources. Vitamin E and zinc are also effective against hives patches and rings.
If you get hives because of any particular food items, then avoid it completely. Also, when you are affected by hives, make sure that you do not touch or prick them. Stress can also be a cause for hives; so stay away from stress-filled situations in work place.
