Healing Hives

Recognize these? 

These are the red, hot, itchy little buggers covering my little one right now.  Hives, or Urticaria, are raised, itchy, red welts on the surface of the skin. They are usually an allergic reaction to food or medicine.  But in our case, it's a result of the latest virus going around.  So not only is my little one hot and stuffy, but itchy as well.

Is it Spring yet?!

Hives are one of those signs that gets parent's hearts beating a little faster.  Since they are normally associated with an allergic reaction, we worry that it will lead to swollen throats and trouble breathing.  Scary stuff.  And not to be messed with.  However, if they are not associated with an allergic reaction (and you've talked to your doctor), there are lots of ways to treat hives naturally.

Think cool and soothing.

1. Cold Compresses- place a cool cloth over the affected area, changing frequently.  Even better is soaking the cloth in a cool tea of peppermint, spearmint, or lavender.

2. Aloe Vera- the cool gelatinous insides of Aloe are perfect for cooling down the inflamed areas of hives. The gel is widely available. Just make sure it is 100% Aloe.

3. Tumeric Paste- You might have Tumeric sitting around in your spice cabinet.  It's a great addition to a lot of meals!  It is also a well-known anti-inflammatory.  Take 1 tablespoon of Tumeric powder, add enough water to form a thick paste, and then apply. 

4. Oatmeal and Marshmallow Root Bath- If you have hives all over the body, you might want to try this one.  Take about 1 cup of rolled oats and grind into a fine powder.  Do the same with 1/2 cup of Marshmallow Root.  You can also use Slippery Elm Bark, but it's an at-risk plant, so make sure you have a reputable source.  Sprinkle the mixture into the running bath of lukewarm water. Make sure the water isn't too hot, or it will further aggravate the hives.  This colloidal treatment will cool and soothe those hot itchy bumps. 

Apply any of these treatments as needed and hopefully you (or your little one) will find some relief! 

Be Well!
Kristin