Natural Ways to Treat Hives and Relieve Inflammation

Have you noticed unusual bumps on your skin? Do they appear out of the blue and go away within hours? These symptoms may indicate that you have urticaria. Also known as hives, this condition is usually an allergic reaction. It causes pale red bumps on the skin, itchiness, burning, and stinging. Most times, it lasts for a few hours or up to one day.

Even though hives are not a medical emergency, they do cause discomfort. Imagine you’re getting ready for a job interview or a date when you suddenly have an outbreak! If that happens, try these natural ways to treat hives:

Identify and Eliminate Your Triggers

Urticaria occurs when your body produces too much histamine. Basically, it’s an allergic reaction. The best way to prevent and manage hives is to eliminate your triggers. These may include tap water, certain foods, latex, chemicals, insect bites, pollen, medicines, dust mites, and even sunlight. Sometimes, stress is the culprit.

Start by ditching common allergens like gluten, eggs, nuts, dairy, and soy. Wear clothes made of natural fabrics, such as cotton and hemp. If your symptoms persist, get an allergy test. This will help you identify the root cause of your problem.

Take a Cold Shower

Hives often cause inflammation, making your skin swell. To address these symptoms, apply a cold washcloth on the affected areas. Another option is to take a cold shower or a cool bath.

Use soaps and shower gels made with natural or organic ingredients. The chemicals in skin care products can worsen urticaria.

Try Baking Soda

This popular cooking ingredient soothes and cleanses the skin. It also speeds up wound healing and fades scarring.

To reap the benefits, mix a teaspoon of baking soda with water. Massage it gently on your skin, let it dry, and then rinse. Repeat several times a day.

Apply Aloe Vera

Aloe vera boasts anti-inflammatory properties. For this reason, it’s often used in the treatment of acne, psoriasis, eczema, herpes, wounds, and hives. This plant reduces swelling and redness while improving skin health.

Depending on your preferences, you can either apply aloe vera juice on the skin or use a topical cream or gel containing this ingredient.

Other natural treatment options include witch hazel, acupuncture, evening primrose supplements, and quercetin. Also, try to limit stress, which is a major contributing factor to hives. Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing and stop using cosmetics that contain synthetic ingredients.