Hives, or urticaria, are itchy or burning red welts, bumps or patches that appear suddenly on the skin, usually, as an allergic reaction. Hives can be caused by allergens such seafood, nuts, dairy, medications, pets, pollen, insect bites, insect stings and allergy shots or due to stress, excessive sweating, exercise, certain infections, viruses, certain illnesses, excessive cold, extreme exposure to sun, excessive pressure on the skin and scratching. Sometimes, the cause of hives in someone can remain unknown and sometimes, hives can become a chronic issue. Traditional treatment for hives involves antihistamines or oral steroids which could have side effects like dizziness, mood changes, weight gain, vision problems, insomnia and osteoporosis.

However, hives can be managed naturally, too. Some of these natural remedies include the following:

One, exercise patience. Hives can go away without any intervention. Also, avoid irritating the affected area. Do not take hot showers and avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes. Next, figure out what triggered the reaction and avoid it from then on. Get an allergy testing done to reveal the source of your hives and keep a food diary in order to pin down the food that causes an allergic reaction. Calm the swelling down by not using any products on your skin such as soaps or clothes washed with harsh detergents.

Another important way to deal with hives is to learn how to manage stress. Hives and stress go together because stress releases histamine to support your immune system and histamines can cause hives. Another natural remedy is a paste made of baking soda and water rubbed on the affected area. The sodium bicarbonate will give immediate relief. Take natural supplements like quercetin, evening primrose, fish oil, and vitamins B12, C and D. Acupuncture is also an effective natural remedy to treat hives. Acupuncture is known to provide prompt relief from the itching and the swelling.