Hives also medically known as Urticaria is a skin condition that causes red, itchy, raised welts on the skin that last for a maximum of six to twelve hours. They can appear anywhere on the body and vary in size and shape. The exact cause of why hives are formed is unknown, though it is observed that due to allergic reactions towards food, pollen, certain temperatures etc the condition is triggered. Symptoms are oval or round rashes, itching skin, red flares around the swellings. Hives can be Acute or Chronic depending on the time period of the symptoms. If the symptoms last for less than six weeks, it is acute and if it extends beyond six weeks it is known to be chronic Urticaria, which is very rare.
This condition can be cured and made less annoying with certain home remedies:
Baking Soda
Mix water with baking soda and apply the paste on the affected area, wash it with cold water. This can be applied twice a day. Baking soda reduces itching and irritation due to the alkalinity it contains.
Coconut Oil
Massaging the affected area with virgin coconut oil twice a day will reduce itching and inflammation. Its antimicrobial properties will prevent further infections.
Turmeric
Mix turmeric with water and apply the paste on affected areas twice a day. Drinking a glass of water mixed with one teaspoon turmeric water is also effective. Turmeric contains curcumin which is a bioactive component and also this herb is anti-inflammatory and natural antiseptic.
Ginger
Mixing one teaspoon fresh ginger juice with two teaspoon honey and drinking it twice or thrice a day can be very effective for hives treatment. Ginger acts as an anti-inflammatory product which reduces swelling. It is also considered a natural blood purifier and helps in reducing itching caused by hives.
Aloe Vera Gel
Apply fresh Aloe Vera gel on the affected area and wash it with cold water after 20 to 30 minutes. This process can be done twice a day for better results. Along with having moisturizing qualities, Aloe Vera contains Glucomannans that accelerate the healing process.
Oatmeal Bathing
Add 2 to 3 cups of ground oatmeal to cold water and soak in the bathtub for ten to fifteen minutes. Doing this every day will reduce itching. Oatmeal contains beta-glucans and starches that protect the skin. It also has anti-inflammatory properties which help in treatment for hives.
Cold Compress
Taking a shower with cold water or applying ice cubes to the affected area will reduce inflammation. Cold temperatures reduce or inhibit the release of histamines which cause swelling and itching. Ice cubes should be wrapped up in a cloth before applying and should never be used directly. Also covering hives with moist and cool dressing and bandages will prevent you from scratching.
Vinegar
Add one teaspoon of vinegar to one tablespoon of lukewarm water and apply it to the affected areas gently with cotton balls. This will help in reducing itching.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel contains skin healing properties along with antioxidant and astringent properties. Applying or dabbing witch hazel liquid on the hives will calm down the itching sensation. This can be done several times a day.
Though hives are very irritating and annoying skin condition especially if it occurs to kids, it can be cured with few easy home remedies. People suffering from this condition should avoid harsh skin products and also avoid hot showers and only use cold water for bath and showers. Loose and smooth material clothing is also very essential to avoid further inflammation. Certain foods, medications, and other triggers should be avoided.