1. Avoid triggers
These can include foods, medications, pollen, pet dander, latex and insect stings.
2. Use an over-the-counter antihistamine
A nonprescription oral antihistamine, such as loratadine (Claritin), cetirizine (Zyrtec) or diphenhydramine (Benadryl, others), may help relieve itching.
3. Take a comfortably cool bath
To relieve itching, sprinkle the bath water with baking soda, uncooked oatmeal or colloidal oatmeal — a finely ground oatmeal that is made for the bathtub (Aveeno, others).
4. Cold Compress
Most skin allergy specialists suggest cold compresses as the best topical natural remedy for hives. Cold temperature helps shrink the blood vessels and block further release of histamine. This in turn alleviates swelling, inflammation and itching.
5. Baking Soda
Baking soda is another popular remedy for hives. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation as well as itching.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is another good remedy for hives. Its antihistamine properties will help relieve inflammation quickly and regulate the body’s immune system response. It also plays a key role in restoring your overall skin health.
7. Ginger
Known as a ‘wonder drug’, ginger can be used to treat hives due to its strong anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties. Basically, ginger targets the genes and enzymes that trigger inflammation, in turn improving circulation to the skin, relieving swelling and reducing itching.
8. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera gel is another natural remedy for hives. It contains anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help reduce redness, inflammation and itching when applied topically. Also, when taken internally, it stimulates immunity and helps eliminate inflammatory toxins.
9. Turmeric
Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and helps stimulate the body’s natural anti-inflammatory corticosteroids. It is also considered a very effective natural antihistamine and antioxidant for hives and a variety of inflammatory skin ailments.
10. Basil
Basil also works as a natural antihistamine and hence it is very effective for treating hives. Plus, it can effectively combat itching and inflammation.
Sources:
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hives-and-angioedema/basics/lifestyle-home-remedies/con-20014815
http://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/picture-of-hives-urticaria
http://www.top10homeremedies.com/home-remedies/home-remedies-hives.html/3
