Hives or urticaria is allergic reactions that appear on the skin as red and itchy welts on any part of the body. The welts can be small or big, can appear isolated or in groups and can spread significantly and cover large areas of the skin. They are a kind of allergy that occurs when histamine a certain chemical is released from cells in children’s body into the skin. This produces an inflammatory reaction which stings and becomes very painful. They are usually harmless and disappear after a few days and do not damage any vital organs. Your child can hives if he is allergic to peanuts, milk, soy, other nuts, shellfish and certain foods.
Certain chemicals present in pesticides, cleaning agents, sprays, shampoos, soaps and perfumes can also trigger an attack of hives. Contact with certain plants or bushes or the presence of a foreign substance in your child’s body can also cause hives. Sometimes viruses and bacterial infections give rise to hives. Simple home remedies can treat the tender skin of your child naturally and without any harmful effects.
Home Remedies For Hives
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is very safe, very effective and easily available. Take a thick leaf of aloe vera. Remove the skin and apply the gel on the affected areas. It will cool the skin, take away the sting, reduce the swelling and itching and alleviate the redness and pain. It will also give a protective coating to the skin. You can also give its juice to your child that will help eliminate toxins from the body and enhance immunity.
Green Tea
Green tea is antihistamine. Its polyphenols are antioxidants and the flavonoids present in it, prevent tissue damage and boost the immune system. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it very desirable in treating hives. Give green tea to your child at least three times a day. Use honey to sweeten it.
Ginger
Ginger helps suppress the onset of hives. Its anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties quickly deal with swelling, itching and harmful waste matter. It stimulates the blood circulation. Grate some fresh ginger and squeeze the juice. Take a teaspoon of this juice and mix it with two teaspoons of honey. Give it to your child at bed time before he goes off to sleep.
Apple cider vinegar
while alleviating the itching reduces the swelling and soothes the skin. Make a paste of apple cider vinegar and cornstarch. Apply the paste to all the affected areas and let it dry. The itchy welts will subside after a while. You can also dab apple cider vinegar on the affected parts with a cotton wad. Apply frequently to get maximum relief.
Baking Soda
Make a thick paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the affected area. The swelling and itching will instantly subside leaving the skin cool. Give your child foods rich in quercitin. Quercitin is a strong antihistamine bioflavonoid which reduces inflammation caused by skin allergies. Rich sources of quercitin are apples, black grapes, cherries and blackberries. Make your child eat these fruits to prevent an outbreak of hives.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.