Hives are one of the most aggravating conditions suffered on a regular basis. Most simply put, hives are an allergic reaction in the skin, where small amounts of histamine are released, the body's natural defense against allergens. Although rarely dangerous in and of themselves, the allergic reaction underlying them can be, and if they are accompanied by swelling in the mouth, tongue or throat are experienced as well, immediate medical attention should be sought.
Although antihistamines are the medical method of choice to deal with hives, there are more gentle, natural alternatives that can prove just as useful — and without the severe drowsiness that comes with most medical antihistamines.
Natural Antihistamine Herbal Tea to Treat Hives
This combination contains a broad range of antihistamine compounds, and is likely to bring relief to anyone suffering from hives, regardless of the cause.
Combine roughly equal parts basil, fennel seed, oregano, and tarragon, with two parts each chamomile and regular tea leaves. Steep in nearly-boiling water for about ten minutes.
This can be drunk sweetened with a little honey, or several cups can be added to a bath for a soothing soak — or better yet, sip a cup of this tea while in the soothing bath.
Essential Oil Blend to Sooth Hives
Make an oil blend with:
- 1 part Yarrow
- 1 part Tagetes
- 2 parts German Chamomile
in
- 3 parts base oil of choice
- 3 parts Jojoba oil
- 1 part Evening Primrose oil
(about ten times the amounts of base oil to essential oils total)
This blend can be dabbed lightly to the hives to soothe and calm the itch. It is best used after a good soaking bath in which has been added 5 drops of German Chamomile essential oil, and a half cup of baking soda.
Other Herbs and Essential Oils That May Bring Relief from Hives
Obviously, chamomile is one of the best antihistamine herbal remedies, but those with ragweed allergies shouldn't use it, as it may only make the allergic reaction worse. It is followed closely, however, by oregano, and then by rue. Beyond those three, almost as effective are basil, echinacea, fennel, fig, ginkgo, grapefruit, passionflower, tarragon, tea, thyme, and yarrow.
Contrary to what most would consider logical – because this plant can actually cause hives itself – is stinging nettle. The leaves of this stinging plant, if harvested carefully and either juiced or cooked and eaten, seem to actually have strong anti-allergy activity in the body. Some say this is a particularly effective remedy for hives caused by consumption of shellfish.
Ginger and licorice are also recommended to try, either internally, externally, or both.
In addition to the essential oils listed above, caraway, clove and lemon balm are recommended for hives. Lavender applied neat might also provide some itch relief, even if it does not have any particular use for the hives themselves.
Sources:
- The Complete Book of Essential Oil & Aromatherapy, by Valerie Ann Worwood (New World Library, 1991)
- The Herbal Drugstore, by Linda B. White, MD, and Steven Foster (Rodale, 2003)
- Prescription for Herbal Healing, by Phyllis A. Balch (Avery, 2002)
- The Green Pharmacy, by James A. Duke, PhD (St. Martin's Paperbacks, 1998)
- Personal experience
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