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Botanical Medicine and Homeopathy for Hives

Botanical Medicine and Homeopathy for HivesHives, technically called Urticaria, can present at any given time. For some, the presentation of red, swollen, itchy skin eruptions are a common occurrence while others struggle with a sporadic bout. The cause can be found in many culprits such as environmental toxins, food allergens, insect bites, medicine side effects, anxiety, or a clue of something adverse internally systemic.

Most dermatological prescribed or over-the-counter remedies offer a fast Band-aid effect that reduces symptoms and gets people back on track. However, chances of reoccurrence are high as even though the symptoms are quelled, the root cause remains dormant waiting for its next opportunity to strike.

Botanical medicine and homeopathy for hives could be an alternative natural remedy that is able to not only bring relief but may potentially go deep enough to remove the root cause.

Botanical Medicine for Hives
There are scores of herbal preparations that can be applied to acute or chronic hive outbreaks. Working closely with a naturopathic doctor, topical applications as well as ingesting specific dosages of various botanicals can show promising results.

Compiled research of herbal treatments for skin disorders found in ‘Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects’ (2nd edition) states that,

“A few randomized, controlled trials have also demonstrated significant results in the use of herbal therapies for the treatment of dermatologic disorders.”

Green Tea – This tea is a famous Asian cure all. It contains unique compounds linked to many healing capabilities including the ability to alleviate a hive outbreak.

According to the University of Michigan Health System, and a 1997 study published in the European Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, two chemicals in green tea called ECG and EGC have been shown to act like natural antihistamines. Histamine is a major player in forming hives to alert an allergic response.

Drinking 3 cups of per day is recommended to receive green tea’s full benefit. Talk to your naturopathic doctor.

Turmeric (Curcumin) – Derived from the root of the curcuma longa plant (a relation to ginger) turmeric has strong natural antihistamine and antioxidant properties. In addition, it works as an excellent anti-inflammatory capable of reducing raised, inflamed hive outbreaks.

Aloe Vera – Keep the gel of this plant in your refrigerator and at the first sign of hives apply it directly. Externally it cools dermal tissue, provides a protective coating, reduces itching and quells inflammation. Internally, aloe vera supplements may eliminate inflammatory toxins and increase immune system functioning.

Chinese skullcap – The flavonoids in this odd sounding herb are highly potent, capable of stabilizing the immune system during an allergen overload. It cools “damp heat” which, according to Classical Chinese Medicine, is associated with hive presentation.

Homeopathy for Hives
The practice of homeopathy is a simple like-cures-like approach to challenging health conditions. By studying the effects on humans of specific plants, animals or minerals in whole form, homeopathy compares results to similar symptoms of various conditions and diseases. The whole form is then diluted to the point of holding the ‘vibration’ of the whole source enabling it safe to ingest. This vibration then attempts to “burn out” the offending ailment.

Under the guidance of a naturopathic doctor, homeopathy for hives can be highly effective when successfully matched.

Some remedies include:

Apis mellifica – Derived from the Western or European honey bee, this remedy is used when hives resemble the stinging and itching similar to experiencing a bee puncture. Tender to the touch and sometimes light purple in color, these hives can sometimes be affiliated with minor asthmatic symptoms.

Belladonna – In its whole form the oils from the belladonna plant contain atropine a highly poisonous substance used only in medicinal preparations. However, in its safe homeopathic form belladonna may alleviate violent sudden outbreaks of red, hot, painful hives primarily located near the inner aspects of the limbs and face.

Ledum palustre – This is the genus of the wild rosemary plant that has been successful in reducing hive breakout symptoms associated with certain insect bites. It may also be used as an antidote to hives caused by touching poison oak.

Rhus toxicodendron – Rhus tox is derived from the poison ivy plant. Hives are very similar to a poison ivy presentation which include large red patches and/or small red bumps accompanied by extreme itching. Using this remedy for these symptoms may offer rapid relief.

The use of botanical medicine and homeopathy for hives requires that a naturopathic doctor look at the whole individual rather than just the symptom. Determining various factors such as time of day symptoms are worse; thirst; skin tone; tongue presentation; pulse and so much more paints a complete picture on how to choose the best remedy. At Integrative Med Solutions, we will design an acupuncture and naturopathic treatment program that works for you. In many cases, insurance covers portions of the acupuncture treatment. Allow us to support you to achieve optimal health.  To make an appointment or find out more about how acupuncture and naturopathic medicine can benefit you, please call our office at 914.337.2980 or CLICK HERE to schedule an online appointment.

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