Medicine
Fact-checked

At WiseGEEK, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How Do I Choose the Best Herbal Treatment for Hives?

Meshell Powell
Meshell Powell

Choosing a herbal treatment for hives is often a matter of personal preference, although the potential side effects of each herb should be considered. Some of the most common herbal supplements used to treat hives include chamomile, stinging nettle, and amaranth. Additional herbs that may be beneficial include yarrow, elderberry, and burdock. Before using a herbal treatment for hives, a doctor should be consulted to make sure the hives are not caused by a serious condition that requires medical attention and to discuss the safety of the herbs in an individual situation.

Chamomile and stinging nettle are often recommended as options for the herbal treatment for hives. Prepared as a tea, chamomile can be ingested or used as a skin wash to soothe the swelling, itching, and discomfort caused by hives. Those who are allergic to ragweed should consult a doctor before using products containing chamomile. Stinging nettle extracts or infusions can be applied directly to the hives for immediate relief of symptoms. This herb can also be made into a tea, although it can have significant blood-thinning effects.

Small cluster of hives.
Small cluster of hives.

Amaranth and yarrow may be used as part of a herbal treatment for hives regimen. Frequently combined with other herbs that have antihistamine properties, amaranth is used to create a skin wash and is applied directly to the lesions. The safety of this herb has not been fully determined, so it should not be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Yarrow is reported to reduce inflammation and speed the skin healing process. This herb is related to ragweed and should not be used by those who are allergic.

Anti-itch cream can be applied to alleviate the symptoms of hives.
Anti-itch cream can be applied to alleviate the symptoms of hives.

Elderberry and burdock contain antihistamine properties that may make them useful in the herbal treatment for hives. Both of these herbs are believed to help reduce inflammation caused by skin conditions such as hives. A person with an autoimmune disorder such as lupus or multiple sclerosis should use elderberry only under the supervision of a doctor, as it may cause symptoms to worsen. Burdock is another plant in the ragweed family, so caution should be used when taking this herb.

Herbal treatments for hives can interact with other medicines, so it may be wise to consult a physician first.
Herbal treatments for hives can interact with other medicines, so it may be wise to consult a physician first.

Some medications may not work properly when combined with herbal remedies, so a doctor should be consulted and notified of all over-the-counter and prescription medications being used. Allergic reactions may occur when using any herbal treatment for hives. Symptoms such as facial swelling or chest pain that accompany the hives should be reported to a doctor immediately.

Discussion Comments

discographer

@turquoise-- Yes, please share your experience with Chinese herbs. I've been hearing about Chinese herbs and acupuncture for hives for sometime now but have not had a chance to try them.

I have tried stinging nettle leaf tea and aloe vera juice tough and had good results with both. They don't get rid of my hives but they do reduce itching which is the worst part of hives for me. I get both of these at the health food store, in the supplement section.

turquoise

Eating fresh fruits and veggies high in vitamin C and green tea are great for hives. Vitamin C is an antioxidant and so is green tea. They help detox my body of histamines. I learned about this from my neighbor who is very knowledgeable about natural remedies. She is Chinese and will be taking me to a Chinese medicine practitioner next week. She believes that my hives are completely curable with herbs. I will make sure to share my experience here afterward.

literally45

I use chamomile and sometimes oatmeal in my bath water when I get hives. Both are very soothing and relieve the itching.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Small cluster of hives.
      By: Rob Byron
      Small cluster of hives.
    • Anti-itch cream can be applied to alleviate the symptoms of hives.
      By: picsfive
      Anti-itch cream can be applied to alleviate the symptoms of hives.
    • Herbal treatments for hives can interact with other medicines, so it may be wise to consult a physician first.
      By: Shakzu
      Herbal treatments for hives can interact with other medicines, so it may be wise to consult a physician first.
    • Chamomile tea can be ingested or used as topical compress to reduce hives.
      By: lily
      Chamomile tea can be ingested or used as topical compress to reduce hives.