Hives, medically known as urticaria, are raised, red, and often itchy patches of skin that can appear suddenly and disappear without a trace. These patches, also referred to as “wheals,” can vary in size from small dots to large areas covering significant portions of the body. They typically cause itching, stinging, or pain and can last from 24 hours to several days. Hives are caused by irritation in the upper layers of the skin and can sometimes be accompanied by deeper skin inflammation, leading to swelling and pain. Chronic urticaria (CU) is a form of hives that persists for more than six weeks without a specific trigger or identifiable cause, significantly impacting the quality of life. The condition can be part of a serious allergic reaction, presenting additional symptoms such as dizziness, stomach cramps, swelling, or trouble breathing, necessitating emergency medical attention.
Types of Hives
Hives can appear suddenly, causing red, itchy welts or bumps on the skin that can last anywhere from a few hours to several weeks. While hives may look similar, they can actually be caused by a variety of factors, each leading to different types of hives. Understanding the various types can help you identify triggers and manage symptoms more effectively. Here are the most common types of hives you should know about.
- Acute Urticaria
- Chronic Urticaria
- Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (CSU)
- Chronic Inducible Urticaria (CIndU)
- Physical Urticaria
- Dermatographism
- Delayed-pressure Urticaria
- Exercise-induced Urticaria
- Cold Urticaria
- Heat Urticaria
- Solar Urticaria
- Vibratory Urticaria
- Non-physical Urticaria
- Cholinergic Urticaria
- Contact Urticaria
- Aquagenic Urticaria
Common Causes of Hives
Hives can appear suddenly and be triggered by a wide range of factors, making it sometimes tricky to pinpoint the exact cause. Whether you experience hives occasionally or more frequently, understanding the common triggers can help you manage and prevent outbreaks more effectively. From foods to environmental factors, here are some of the most common causes of hives you should be aware of:
- Allergic reactions to foods (e.g., nuts, shellfish, eggs)
- Medications (e.g., antibiotics, aspirin, ibuprofen)
- Insect stings or bites
- Physical stimuli (e.g., pressure, cold, heat, sunlight)
- Latex
- Blood transfusions
- Bacterial infections (e.g., urinary tract infections, strep throat)
- Viral infections (e.g., common cold, infectious mononucleosis, hepatitis)
- Pet dander
- Pollen
- Stress
- Exercise
- Sweating
- Sun exposure
- Emotional stress
- Autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus)
- Cancer
- Thyroid disease
Best Herbs for Hives
Using herbs to care for hives offers several benefits compared to conventional medication, primarily due to their natural and holistic approach. Herbs like chamomile, licorice root, and Chinese dittany possess anti-inflammatory and antihistaminic properties, which can soothe the skin and reduce the itching and swelling associated with hives. Unlike some medications that may cause drowsiness or other side effects, herbs often provide a gentler alternative with fewer adverse reactions. Additionally, herbal remedies can be tailored to individual needs, allowing for a more personalized treatment plan. They also promote overall well-being by addressing underlying imbalances in the body, rather than just alleviating symptoms. While scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of herbs for hives is still emerging, many people find them to be a valuable complement to traditional treatments, especially when aiming for a more natural lifestyle.
1. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel or hamamelis is a skin-protecting and healing liquid that has strong antioxidant properties. You can apply it several times a day to help calm the itching and burning sensations. People used witch hazel for centuries to soothe irritated skin and reduce swelling.
2. Coconut Oil
As a natural skin moisturizer, coconut oil, besides its antimicrobial properties, also can soothe the skin and comfort itching sensations usually present with hives. Just make sure that you use only virgin coconut oil as it has the best properties.
3. Aloe Vera
Being a natural source of vitamin E, aloe vera is excellent for treating skin with any type of rash, including hives. It is a powerful hydrating natural remedy for soothing skin, calming swelling, and stimulating circulation. You simply need to apply aloe vera gel all over the area you notice the redness and other symptoms. It takes only a few minutes to dry, and you can put your clothes on after it is completely dried. What is also important is that you need to use 100% aloe vera to avoid introducing other allergens that could further hurt your skin.
4. Tea Tree Oil
Itchy skin can be treated with tea tree essential oil. Make sure to dilute it with water before applying it directly to the affected area. It will calm down the itching skin and control hives due to its antifungal, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Always opt for pure and organic essential oils and do a patch test before applying, although they are found to be safe for most people when used correctly.
5. Green Tea
Due to its antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties, green tea can help treat hives from the root and make them disappear. The presence of polyphenols adds another layer of health benefits for urticaria. Two to three cups a day will ease your symptoms.
6. Ginger
Being a natural blood purifier, ginger can help control hives outbreak. It also stimulates the blood flow and soothes the itching and burning skin. Drinking one tablespoon of ginger juice with two tablespoons of honey can relieve the skin rashes.
7. Turmeric
With its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric is widely used to heal rashes. Drinking turmeric-infused water or milk can relieve the itching. Also, you can apply the turmeric paste directly to the area of the hives.
8. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has natural anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, making it an excellent solution for treating outbreaks of hives. It can relieve the swelling associated with the condition, and even help to support the immune system if taken internally. You can add this remedy topically to the affected area by diluting with water or you could even mix it with a little honey and water, and drink internally. If you are curious about this particular home treatment, you can find a range of apple cider vinegar products at Your Health Food Store
9. Oatmeal
A seemingly unusual choice for treating your skin ailment, oatmeal works brilliantly at soothing itchiness and irritation, and can exfoliate your skin, removing the dead skin cells. Similarly to apple cider vinegar and aloe vera, oatmeal also has natural anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful at relieving inflammation and the associated redness and wheals. You can apply oatmeal directly to your hives after mixing with water to form a paste, or you could even add a couple of handfuls to your evening bath.
FAQs
- Can hives be prevented by using herbs?
Answer: While herbs can help manage symptoms of hives, there isn’t enough evidence to suggest they can prevent hives from occurring. However, some herbs, such as turmeric and ginger, which have anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties, may help reduce the frequency of hives in people prone to allergic reactions.
- Are there any herbs to avoid if I have chronic hives?
Answer: People with chronic hives should be cautious with certain herbs that may cause allergic reactions or interact with medications. For example, St. John’s Wort can interact with many medications, and some individuals may be allergic to herbal ingredients like tea tree oil. It’s important to consult a healthcare provider before starting any herbal remedy.
- How long does it take for herbs to alleviate hives symptoms?
Answer: The time it takes for herbs to alleviate hives symptoms can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the hives. Some herbs like aloe vera or witch hazel may provide immediate relief, while others like turmeric or green tea may take several days to show noticeable effects.
- Can I combine multiple herbal remedies for treating hives?
Answer: Yes, many people combine different herbal remedies to treat hives, such as applying aloe vera topically while drinking turmeric-infused water. However, it’s important to ensure that these herbs do not interact negatively with each other or with any medications you are taking. Consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended.
- Are there any dietary changes that can complement herbal treatments for hives?
Answer: Yes, certain dietary changes can complement herbal treatments for hives. Avoiding known allergens, reducing intake of histamine-rich foods, and incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, ginger, and green tea into your diet can help manage symptoms.
- What should I do if herbal treatments do not improve my hives?
Answer: If herbal treatments do not improve your hives, it’s important to seek medical advice. Persistent hives could be a sign of an underlying condition that requires conventional medical treatment. Additionally, severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or swelling should be treated as an emergency.
- Can children use herbal treatments for hives?
Answer: Some herbal treatments, like aloe vera and oatmeal, are generally safe for children. However, essential oils and other potent herbs should be used with caution. It’s important to consult a pediatrician before using any herbal remedies on children.
- Are there any side effects associated with using herbs for hives?
Answer: While herbs are generally considered safe, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or side effects. For example, tea tree oil can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals, and consuming large amounts of apple cider vinegar can lead to stomach upset. Always perform a patch test and start with small doses when using a new herbal remedy.
- Can hives recur even after using herbal treatments?
Answer: Yes, hives can recur even after using herbal treatments, especially if the underlying cause, such as an allergy or stress, is not addressed. Herbal treatments can help manage symptoms but may not prevent future outbreaks.
- What lifestyle changes can support the effectiveness of herbal treatments for hives?
Answer: Lifestyle changes such as managing stress, avoiding known allergens, maintaining good skin care practices, and staying hydrated can support the effectiveness of herbal treatments. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can also help reduce the frequency and severity of hives.