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Home remedies for itchy hives
Itchy hives are caused due to an allergic reaction to plants, drugs, metals, insect bites, stress, and in some cases sunrays. Itchy hives generally occurs when blood plasma leaks into the skin, resulting wheals or swollen areas. Itchy hives causes a tangling or uneasy irritation on the skin that makes you want to scratch the affected area. When itchy hives are persistent, medical help can be needed to determine and treat the cause. The patient suffering from itchy hives can experience an uncomfortable sensation in the skin as if something is crawling on the skin. There are several home remedies that work well to relieve the allergic reaction of itchy hives.
Home remedies for itchy hives:
- Jewelweed: Jewelweed is a very popular remedy to treat itchy hives. This remedy contains a compound called lawsone that is capable for treating the itching of hives. This medication should be prepared by cutting the plant into 1 – 2 inch pieces, put them in a plastic bag and flatten it with a rolling pin. Put the plant pieces in to a pot and just cover with water. Reduce the liquid to about half of the original amount by boiling it. Strain the plant substance and allow the water to cool. Transfer the water into ice cubes and freeze. Once frozen apply the ice cubes on the affected areas for treating itching of hives.
- Stinging nettle: Nettle usually cause rash when they come in contact with skin. If they are taken orally then they can help in healing itchy hives. Drinking nettle tea can help you in reliving itchiness of hives. In one cup of boiling hot water add 2 teaspoons of leaves or dried nettle root. Drink that tea three to four times a day. This remedy is also available in capsule form.
- Camomile: This remedy contains seven antihistamine compounds. Drinking plain camomile tea can help in treating itching of hives. You can also add other antihistamine herbs in the tea such as oregano, basil, tarragon and fennel. You can also add few cups into your bathtub and soak into it. It is advisable to use camomile with care if you are allergic to ragweed.
- Cool: It is advisable to use cold compresses such as ice cubes and cold baths to treat itching of hives. Coldness shrinks the blood vessels and keeps them from swelling and itchiness. It also helps in controlling the allergic reaction by slowing the body’s release of histamine. You can also add mint to the ice cubes for better results.
- Oatmeal: Add 2 cups of oatmeal and 3 tablespoons of cornstarch in a little water and make it into a paste. Apply that paste on the affected area for 15 – 30 minutes as it helps in treating itchy hives.
Try to increase the amount of quercetin in your diet as it is a natural antihistamine. It is mostly found in apples, onions and leafy green vegetables.
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