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.
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.
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.
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.