The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
General Feedback
Posted by Lilly (Dayton, Oh) on 10/15/2012
I am wondering if my muscle aches (polymalgia, what the doctors think I have) and hives could be related. Not sure if they are hives. Couple of months ago broke out in hives all over. Was able to finally get rid of them, but now on occasion I will break out in small welts that itch tremendously. I sometimes wake up with a swollen eye, which does go away after a couple of hours. Or in the middle of the day I might all of a sudden get a welt on the palm of my hand or other various parts of my body. Then after reading some post, was wondering if it could be dust mites in my bed and if this could all be related to my muscle aches which I have had for over 2 years.
Beer
Posted by Abel (Munchen, Germany) on 10/01/2012
★★★★★
Hello, When I had Hives in the past, Benedryl worked wonders, but now it doesn't seem to help. The two things I found that help are chemical-wise a pill called Cetirizin which is an offshoot of Benedryl, and the second, now don't laugh till you try it... Is Beer! In Germany there is a purity law which Bier can only be produced from Hops, Water and Malt, nothing else. As I was drinking one evening, about two hours later I noticed ALL the hives (welts) were gone! No I don't advocate drinking beer till you drop, but try Hops as a tea, this too has been helping. I boil water, let the hops soak for about 5 min. , add some honey and there you go.
For now, it's five o'clock somewhere, so PROST and good luck! =) Abel.
Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda, Exercise
Posted by Meez (Jamaica Plains, Ma) on 09/13/2012
Please read... BAKING SODA MAKES HIVES WORSE BY INCREASING CARBON DIOXIDE... pH NOT A FACTOR...
http://www.jci.org/articles/view/100402/files/pdf
What they found was that adding baking soda to the wheal (hive) slices actually made the wheals worse by increasing carbon dioxide, even though baking soda shifted the pH to alkaline. They increased and decreased the pH using an acid (similar to vinegar) or base (similar to baking soda) but the hives still flared because of carbon dioxide, CO2.
I've had hives for 13 years. Tried every medicine out there and even experimental ones. The only one that works for me now is Methylprednisolone.
I found this forum when searching for things to treat a minor hive flare up I had recently. I was browsing here and read about ACV and Baking Soda being helpful because it changed pH toward alkaline. I decided to try Baking Soda because it was the only thing I had around late at night. I took 2 tbsp's. An hour later I ended up having one of the worst attacks of hives i've ever had. Racing heartbeat, dizzyness, headache, trouble breathing, itching like mad, weakness. It lasted for 2 days straight. I only slept one day for 4 hours.
When I couldn't sleep, or barely move, I started looking up how Baking Soda could mess up my hives. I read that one of its normal function in the body is to release CO2. Then I found the study above.
My hospital, Mass General, now has an online system where I can check all my records back to 1993 when the hives started. This includes blood tests, xrays, reports, etc...
I started looking through my blood tests and the weird thing is that I found in ALL my blood tests i've always had PERFECT pH. BUT , I've also had high CO2 levels since 1993. Which is strange because high CO2 should make blood pH acidic especially over the course 13 years. The baking soda should have helped becaue I have high CO2.
So.. I browsed around and read that any Vinegar, even ACV and Baking Soda cancel each other out when mixed. That's why they fizz. That's means they can't both have an effect. That must mean that there is something in ACV only that is helping people, even if they take both ACV and BS.
I started looking around and found that there are 3 very powerful Anti-Inflammatories in ACV... Caffeic Acid, Ferrulic Acid and Ursolic Acid. Ironically I have already tried all of those supplements two years ago. I didn't know they were in ACV at the time. I found them when I read in different Allergy and Immunology journals that they help reduce Inflammation and are in trials for different diseases.
Caffeic Acid is in Coffee, but didn't know that until recently. Coffee always helps my hives. I thought it was the caffeine at first, but then tried caffeine alone as a pill and it made my hives worse. Last night I found an article that says Caffeine increases sensetivity to CO2. Amazing.
I bought the Ferrulic and Ursolic Acid as isolated supplements not in any food or herb. They are actually popular in Bodybuilding. They all helped me some, but I needed enourmous amounts which I couldn't afford to keep buying. In the large doses I had some terrible side effects anyways. In the end I just went back on Methylprednisolone.
I haven't read every reply so I probably missed it, but to me it seems like ACV isn't changing pH at all but it is just the delivery medium for the anti-inflammatories Caffeic, Ferrulic and Ursolic Acids. At first I read that people take ACV and BS to make the pH alkaline. Then I got confused because i've read most patients with allergic disorders have high copper levels. Which means ACV souldn't be needed. Then I read that ACV helps digestion but if in order to help digestion it needs to be acidic to break down food. Then I read that it kills bacteria, but if we had bacteria the immune system wouldn't attack us and cause hives, it would be focused on the bacteria. This actually happens to me if I stay out all night and party. I get run down, get a cold and the hives clear up. :)
Do people take ACV because of the anti-inflammatories in it? Or to try to lower or raise pH? Or is it something I missed? Confussed.. :(
General Feedback
Posted by Kuku (Gt, , Grand Cayman) on 08/27/2012
Hives have many reasons, many of them autoimmune. Do some research on MAST CELLS disease. I have body heat hives (exercise hives), pressure hives, photosensitivity etc. There is new supplement available called Quercetin. Do research and try.
Activated Charcoal
Posted by Lisa (Thousand Oaks, Ca, Usa) on 08/10/2012
Hi Ashley, I would venture to say that it is most likely your diet. You didn't mention anything about that. Remember the skin is also an eliminative organ- our largest one actually. Hives in Chinese medicine are also an indication of too much heat in the body. My suggestion would be to first look at your diet and clean that up. And Benadryl is just throwing off your body ecology anyway. Not only is it damaging topically but the body absorbs whatever you put on it too. I can assure you, if you clean up your diet and begin detoxing, you will see this change.
If you can get to a Traditional Chinese medicine doctor, they can help you with this condition as well. Even still, it is imperative you clean up your diet because those hives are an indication of toxins that want to get out. By the way, the cold and nervousness are just things that aggravate the body. Hope this information helps. Lisa
Activated Charcoal
Posted by Ashley (Flint, Michigan Usa) on 08/10/2012
I get hives every single day and have been getting them like that for 16 years. I know that it is from the cold and from being nervous. I'll be starting college this year and I'd really like to go without sitting in class itching my arms and legs. The only thing that seems to help is benadryl but I take so much of it that my body is almost immune to it. I dont know what else to do to get rid of them.
Activated Charcoal
Posted by Mollie (La Puente, Ca. United States) on 08/02/2012
The only thing that helps my son with hives is ZYRTEC allergy medicine.
Activated Charcoal
Posted by Rsw (Uniontown, Oh) on 07/31/2012
When I used to get hives for many years, I took 50 mg of Benedryl several times a day, as directed. They seemed to come out more at night, probably from the heat of the bed covers, especially on my hands on feet which would swell and felt like I was walking on big rocks. To get some sleep, I would fill the bathtub with cool water and pour some blue liquid starch into the water until it felt "starchy. ". A nurse told me to do this and it helps, at least temporarily. Sometimes you need almost a whole bottle of starch but it is inexpensive. If you wake up and don't want to do the bath, just fill the sink with cold water and some starch and put your hands or feet in for a while until your skin isn't hot and you can feel the hives stop itching. Let them air dry. Good luck! By the way, the stress and excitement of the trip may be a contributing factor. I would get them if I was worried and under stress and also when I was very happy and excited.
Activated Charcoal
Posted by Zarahlin (Park City, Utah, Usa) on 07/31/2012
The hives have become worse. I have not found relief from using any of the suggestions here but will not give up on them altogether. I'm very discouraged and wonder how I will be able to cope on this trip. I have not had more than 2 hours of sleep a night for several weeks now. I've been feeling like I'm in a black hole and wonder if I'll ever get rid of these hives.
Activated Charcoal
Posted by Janet (Kendal, U.k) on 07/28/2012
I have suffered these awful things myself. After reading up on the subject I would highly recommend antihistamine intially, I feel for you knowing the distress they cause. Alkalising my diet help immensely too. I used tropically and interally ACV with BS. Of course these were diluted in water. Good Luck and enjoy your trip. These tips will bring instant relief but keep up with them for a while after the hives have gone usually 2-3 days. BTW. I also take tumeric daily now and that address a lot of internal issues.:)
Activated Charcoal
Posted by Lisa (Thousand Oaks, Ca, Usa) on 07/28/2012
Hi Zarahlin, Can you get yourself to a good Traditional Chinese Medicine/ Acupuncturist right away? They will be able to take care of this for you. They see the body very differently in this ancient method of healing. I am certain of its efficacy. See if you can get it resolved before you leave to Belize so it doesn't make you miserable during your holiday! Try not to be discouraged, Lisa
Activated Charcoal
Posted by Zarahlin (Park City, Utah, Usa) on 07/28/2012
I broke out with a small hive cluster on June 19, 2012 on the back of my right thigh. It wasn't major, but the hive spot appeared out of no where. I've experienced rashes before, but never really had hives. I saw a dermatologist a few days later who looked at the spot for a couple of minutes and then pronounced I had an auto-immune disease and prescribed a steroid ointment which was useless. Little do I know what I was in for in these coming weeks. It is now 5 weeks later and I have broken out severely in hives on both legs. The right leg has the most clusters and is much worse than the left leg. I have been to two dermatologists because I thought I had scabies and started treating for that. I am now under the care of a naturopathic doctor who told me I am dealing with urticaria.
The naturopathic doctor has given me two rounds of supplemental IVs containing B vitamins, selenium, and high doses of vitamin C. I am now trying to alkanize my body through a fast and drinking a lemon/lime concoction throughout the day. I also take 13,500 mg. Daily of ascorbic acid powder in water. Unfortunately, everything has become worse. The night itching is unbearable and every morning I wake up with more spots. I am desparate to clear this up because in 8 days I leave for Belize which has a hot, humid, tropical climate.
I'm thankful I found this site, and will try some of the recommendations here. I am so discouraged and depressed right now. I hope I find something that works.
Almond, Lavender and Tea Tree Oils
Posted by Michael (Tucson, Az) on 07/05/2012
I was suffering from total body hives for a year, and taking heavy prescription antihistamines which put me to sleep and tired all day. I went to an allergist and he put me on over the counter Zyrtec and Pepcid. (which by the way are both antihistamines.) I buy the generic form of each to save money, and I haven't had a single outbreak in over 60 days.
Hives Triggers
Posted by Blueplanet (Hong Kong) on 06/25/2012
I never had any hives in my life until recently. On retrospection, I realized that I became unusually obsessed with baking soda on these dates. I suspect that my hives were linked to my excessive intake of baking soda.
Baking soda neutralizes stomach acid, which is needed for proper digestion of proteins. The connection between low stomach acid and chronic recurrent hives was relatively well known and described in medical journals in the early and mid-20th century:
http://wrightnewsletter.com/2011/05/16/itching-for-knowledge/
http://www.digitalnaturopath.com/cond/C42513.html
If lack of stomach acid is a real cause of chronic hives, then should we (victims of hives) include foods that increase secretion of stomach acid?
Hydrochloric Acid
Posted by Blueplanet (Hong Kong) on 06/25/2012
★★★★★
I confirm that soaking the affected areas in diluted hydrochloric acid works. All the blisters either dry up, burst or become scabs. I have no more itching sensation.
Coconut Oil
Posted by Deborah (Dallas, Texas) on 06/24/2012
★★★★★
Hi, last month my husband broke out in hives for the first time in his life. His entire body was covered so we went to the Dr. and they gave him a shot which he had an allergic reaction too (and also didn't help). So a couple days ago when he broke out again and the dr couldn't help help him I did a lot of reading to try to learn about it. He woke up friday with a few hives and by the end of the evening his back and the tops of his arms where his sleeves had been were basically one big hive, plus other little ones around his body. When he got home from work saturday still no change so before he went to bed I put coconut oil (unrefined organic) on his back and arms. When he woke up in the morning every bit was gone on his back and arms. All that was left was the little hives where there hadn't been any coconut oil.
Hydrochloric Acid
Posted by Blueplanet (Yuen Long, Nt, Hong Kong) on 06/24/2012
★★★★☆
I contracted severe hives on my palms after applying a deet based mosquito repellent on mosquito bites. I have already stopped using the repellents, but the hives persist. I have tried many things but to no avail. I have finally found some relief by soaking my hands in a solution of diluted hydrochloric acid. The itching sensation has gone, but I am not sure if the hives will come back later. I will post back.
ACV, Iodine, Op
Posted by Sheila (San Diego, Ca) on 06/19/2012
Could I have had a pH imbalance? Iodide is an element that is listed as acidifying. Is there info on it possibly balancing out?
It was really awful last year, going through the major rash, and I'm wondering now if I had monitored my pH if I could have avoided it by making sure I was pH-balanced enough to handle dosing.
Activated Charcoal
Posted by Lou (Tyler, Tx) on 05/09/2012
I just had hives so bad they thought it was shingles. the intense itching kept coming back every night. I bought some cocoa butter that had soy in it and that was a mistake, as I'm allergic to soy apparently. The skin doctor gave me two steroid shots. Calmed it down immediately. Zyrtec helped too. The health food store recommended I take acidophilus.
I've just been reading about the health benefits of barberry. That's a possible solution. I have been using some pear soap from France that seems to really keep my skin smooth. I know one thing: Coffee gets your histamines up and so does chocolate. I would avoid them during a breakout.
Oil Pulling
Posted by Kr (Roanoke, Va) on 05/04/2012
I totally get the not being able to talk about your hives! :D
Baking Soda
Posted by Kr (Roanoke, Va) on 05/04/2012
So.... why are you posting "yea" for baking soda if you are taking Zyrtec? Obviously it is the Zyrtec keeping your symtpoms at bay.
Activated Charcoal
Posted by Rfoxx (Palm Desert, Ca) on 04/24/2012
This is the 3rd time in the last several years that I have had a hive breakout. The first time lasted for approx. 8 months. I tried homeopathic, etc. And ended up only taking benedryl almost every other day. I had skin testing done by an allergist from the surface skin test to the deep subcutaneous skin test. I had to desensitize myself prior to these tests and you have to wait 1 week in between. It was a total inconvenience and you have to suffer thru the hives. The hives get to the point of angioedema, swelling of lips, eyes, huge welts.
That skin testing showed that I was allergic to dander, dust, dustmites, pollen, mold, cats. At the time, I had a cat and a dog and the cat always slept at the foot of my bed. Every nite. Traumatic as it was, I had to keep the cat out of the room and I proceeded to the nearest Bed Bath and Beyond, purchased a new vacuum that was proven with a hepa filter, no bag. Put a dustmite cover on my mattress and vacuumed the room and under the bed, etc. Like a crazy person. Guess what, no more hives. The problem is now.... My cat is long gone, however, I have a dog who does shed and she sleeps on the end of my bed. I do have a new dust mite cover on the bed, but still waking up in the morning with hives that always appear on the very bottom of my buttocks and the sides and along the armpit area. The problem is once you have hives, your allergic reaction to other things that you normally wouldn't be allergic to is more pronounced. Getting the histamine level down is a chore. Anyone ever have anything like this? The only other thing I haven't done yet, is purchase a new vacuum. Next on the list.
Digestive Enzymes
Posted by James (Coventry, Uk) on 04/12/2012
Could you tell me the make of the enzymes please?
Gluten-Free Diet
Posted by Jose (Salt Lake City, Ut, USA) on 02/27/2012
★★★★★
About 2 years ago, I started having hive outbreaks that completely changed my lifestyle. Initially I and the multiple doctors I visited had a difficult time identifying my body's reaction as hives. They started by appearing as crescent shaped welts as well as targets, or circular welts with clear centers. Not long after, however, these outbreaks became quite severe. Tightly clustered hives formed super hives the size of dinner plates on my chest, back, and legs. I also experienced deep tissue hives that I could feel below the skin and near joints, which caused painful swelling. In addition, as if things were not bad enough already, I also suffered from pressure hives--too much physical pressure actually caused hives! I couldn't even carry a basket at the supermarket without my hands swelling from an outbreak.
Eventually, I found a naturopathic doctor that helped me identify my outbreaks as an immune dificiency. It turns out that I developed an allergic reaction to gluten, which was basically in everything I was eating. At the time all this happend, I was in my mid-thirties and in relatively good health. Cutting gluten out of my diet helped tremendously, but I found a few things that helped with my condition prior to receiving my diagnosis.
If I did nothing, my outbreaks would pass within two or three days, which was just far too long for me, so I found a few different ways to move the hives out of my system within a day to half a day. In some instances, I was able to rid the current outbreak within a few hours.
1. Cayenne pepper. I took cayenne pepper to increase blood circulation. I added 1/4 tsp to a glass of water (8 oz) and chugged it once or twice a day. This might be too much for some people (it was too much for me at times), so I would recommend experimenting with this measurement. As bad as it was at times to drink this concoction, it was worth the relief.
2. Physical exercise. Again, the idea was to increase blood circulation. I joined a local field hockey team and we played 3 times a week. This was better than a treadmill because it was fun, I made new friends, and I got the serious cardiovascular workout I needed.
3. Sea water. I was visiting the Dominican Republic for a wedding and had a breakout every single day that I was there. I discovered, however, that taking a dip in the ocean soothed my outbreaks and got rid of them pretty quickly. I never actually tried it but perhaps an epsom salt bath would also help? Anyway, I include this here in case it helps someone reading this even though I only used it during my visit.
4. Juicing. Hands down this is the best thing I tried for hives AND my gluten allergy. I bought a single auger juicer for about $260 (US). The reason I decided to juice is because I not only wanted the vitamins and minerals, but I wanted to make sure I was also getting the live enzymes that come from juicing. I mostly juice vegetables and some fruit. Initially, I juiced every day for about 3 weeks. I made some form of green juice and had a tall glass of it right away. After that time period, I juiced a few times a week instead of everyday. By the way, I'm not talking about juice fasting. All I did then, and continue to do now, is incorporate juicing into my existing diet.
There are obvious benefits to juicing, and with a little research you can find certain recipes for different ailments. I have a favorite one that I make specifically for heavy metal toxicity, which I suspect is the cause of my pressure hives. The overall result from jucing? I rarely have any hive outbreaks anymore. They're all but gone. I can also have foods that contain gluten such as pasta, breads, ketchup, soy sauce, beer.... The list is endless. Although I can have it again, I'm choosing a cleaner diet. I'm able to carry a basket at the supermarket again and I want to keep it that way.
Hypnotherapy
Posted by Martin (Oxford, England) on 02/24/2012
I have just had my third ever attack of hives - and I've found a common cause I think - walking outside with cold air on my face.
I know it is coming on because my scalp gets really itchy, then my face an torso just bubbles up. After a couple of hours it dies down if I can resist itching!
I'm a professional analytical hypnotherpist as so I'm now going to go on the attack! I believe that allergic reactions are simply normal reactions that are excessive - so I use hypnosis on my clients to simply reduce the sensitivity - and it works - but I've never worked on hives before.
Has anyone tried hypnosis for hives, and if so, how did you get on? And if anyone lives near Oxford in the UK and has been suffering for a long time, I'll be happy to work with someone for free to see if my analytical approach is appropriate. Just contact me if you are interested.
So I'm now going to develop a programme for myself and see how effective it will be - watch this space!
Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda, Exercise
Posted by Natasha (Auckland, New Zealand) on 02/07/2012
I have never had hives before but two weeks ago I started getting them first on my legs. Then on my arms. At the beginning they were small in size. Later they appeared on my upper arm, underarm, neck and even face. It was itching crazy. Immidiately after I scratched them, they was growing in size and was looking like raised flat topped bumps.
I was searching everywhere for some remedy and decided to try using tooth paste. I rubbed it onto hives and minutes later itching disappeared!! Hour later the hives were not swollen any longer and started to dissappear fully.
I don't know if it will help me to get rid of them fully, cos I tried this today, so I just have to wait and see. At least it helps to get rid of itchiness for sure.
Nettle Tea, Quercetin
Posted by Ursula (Weston, Florida, Usa) on 01/05/2012
★★★★★
I gave my 10 year old son quercetin 500 mg with bromelein caps a few days ago and he hasn't had hives since then. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that this might be his cure or at least the best way to manage his daily hives.
My son has had hive attack daily for the past two years. They appeared suddenly out of the blue and have plagued him ever since sometimes multiple times a day. We never go anywhere without Bendadryl and Zyrtec and sometimes even those don't work so well. He also had about 20 NAET treatments with a chiropractor that gave him marginal results while he was getting them but had no long term results.
ACV, Iodine, Op
Posted by Heather (Marysville, Oh) on 01/05/2012
My 5 year old son, has urticaria. He get his hives mostly when scratching. The welts/hives appear and then disappear (if scratching is stopped) within mins. As far as the ACV, Iodine.. etc. What amount should I give him? Any advice is greatly appreciated.
General Feedback
Posted by Livinlife (Austin, Texas) on 12/20/2011
Hives don't actually burst breaking out means they start developing at rapid pace and can't seem to stop.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Christian (Salt Lake City, Utah) on 12/20/2011
I have a family remedy that my parents have saying, wash grains of rice (it has to be raw rice) then with your mouth, chew until it it becomes a white paste- this only works on acute hives though.
Nettle Tea, Quercetin
Posted by Lindsey (Columbus, Ohio) on 12/05/2011
★★★★★
I have had 2 bouts of Hives after going gluten free. I believe contact with gluten is the culprit but I'm not positive. I had a very untimely breakout before Christmas and the only way I got through it was to drink tons of nettle tea and taking quercetin. Both suppress the production of histamine which causes the itching and ill side effects.
There are great supplements out there that contain both. I can't believe this hasn't been posted yet!
Activated Charcoal
Posted by Ali (College Park, Md) on 12/03/2011
For months, my husband started having itchy chronic hives (diagnosed urticaria) basically all over, including lip swelling. It mostly appeared at dawn time. A couple of times, it was even accompanied by difficulty breathing and wheezing. We eliminated one thing after the other, with no avail. A blood test showed nothing wrong and our doctor scheduled us for allergy testing. OTC allergy meds helped but only temporarily.
I started doing lots of research on-line as I didn't want my husband to be dependent on meds forever. Finally I came across this website talking about water treatment for hives, and I thought why not. http://www.topix.com/forum/health/hives/T3JE7RJD4S1FFOBUM/p5
Within the first 48 hours, his itching got less. We canceled the allergy appointment. Within a week, the hives still came but less. He also stopped drinking coffee totally (apparently it's very dehydrating). It took about two months of drinking water about 8-10 glasses, and now the hives are completely gone, thank God! The water has also helped his eczema itching as well. We also had liquid oil of oregano at home (search youtube for an easy painless way to take it- it's strong). Please DO give this a try, and I'll post this on a couple of sites in hopes it may help someone else.
Banana Peel
Posted by Rsw (Uniontown, Oh) on 11/23/2011
Liquid starch (the blue liquid) in cool water (use in sink to soak feet or hands, or in bath for whole body, enough to make the water feel starchy) will relieve the itching of hives. Soak for as long as you can and do not rinse.
Banana Peel
Posted by Sarah (Littleville, Alabama, Usa) on 11/23/2011
★★★★★
Rub the inside of a banana peel anywhere you have hives. The itching will be gone in a second or two. You won't be sticky or anything, it soaks in just like lotion, nice and dry, not greasy. You still need to figure out the cause if it's a chronic condition, but you won't itch anymore!
L-Lysine
Posted by Patricia (Los Angeles, California) on 11/04/2011
★★★★★
I have suffered with chronic Hives for the last 4 years!! Woke up with my eye closed shut or my lips all swollen.... I am so grateful to find this page & all the wonderful information, for the first time I feel that I am not alone & not losing my mind!! Thank you so much to all!
Activated Charcoal
Posted by Becky (Olathe, Ks) on 10/12/2011
To the person who used baby oil made with mineral oil. Did you just smooth it over the hives? I have chronic hives and have had two shots of a high dose of an allergy medicine, it works for a month after the shot, but it costs $1,200 each time and my insurance denies its use. I can't afford it. I'm now trying the ACV 3X a day. I hope this works. I don't want to continue taking a lot of medicine that can have major side effects.
Multiple Remedies
Posted by V. (Orlando, Fl) on 10/02/2011
★★★★★
I have had hives for over a year and a half now. I got it a month after the passing of my grandmother who raised me. Many doctors discard the fact that emotional changes can trigger hives, yet there are some that do not discard that. In my case, I have been diagnosed with chronic urticaria. I have experienced it all, swelling of tongue and throat, and huge welts on my skin and even my face! I was so desperate because I have been to 2 specialists, and all they do is keep prescribing different anthihistamines and steroids like prediscone, which I hate because the relief is temporary, yet the side effects are horrible and more permanent. In my desperation, I said to myself there has to be a natural way to cure this.
So, here is what I have done, and have been doing for a week now, and let me tell you, even though I cannot say yet that the hives are permanently gone, the difference is pretty much close to it. So I really hope this will help some of you: First, ACV does work. You have to however, get the organic ACV! That is very important! _____s brand is the best. _____ also sells pre-made ACV drinks which you can get at any health food grocery store, and they come in different flavors and they are all organic and natural. I started drinking ACV and it has tremendously improved my breakouts! I no longer get big welts, and I do get a few small breakouts on my legs, but they dissppear quick. Haven't had swelling since I started drinking ACV. The other thing I found really helps with the itching besides the good o'l aloe vera plant, is oatmeal body lotion! It's miraculous! Oatmeal is an anti itching agent. I rub it on my skin everyday and night, and the itching is gone almost instantly! I also use castor oil to rub on my skin! Yes, the combo of castor oil and oatmeal lotion really helps. There is something about the castor oil, that helps diminish the welts and stop them from coming out and spreading. They sell the castor oil you can rub on your body at the beauty section of any health food grocery store. It's amazing! So you may want to try this to see if this brings as much instant relief as it has done for me. Good luck and God bless!
Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Shireen Ali Williams (Port Of Spain, Trinidad) on 09/30/2011
Good nite, my daughters 16 and 4 yr old both have hives. I need help- could Ted please help?
Activated Charcoal
Posted by Julia (Jacksonville, Florida) on 09/30/2011
I had hives for 3 months straight and I just had to tell everyone- I tried everything and nothing worked from Apple Cider Vinegar to castor oil to claritin. The only thing that has worked is baby oil ( the one with mineral oil). I never post anything online but I am posting this hoping to help someone because the baby oil is miracolous and anyone that has hives knows that they are really annoying.
It does not matter the brand just baby oil made with mineral oil. I am using the store generic brand and I have not had any hives for a whole week! I am so happy I want to shout!
L-Lysine
Posted by Janet (Kendal, U.k) on 07/31/2011
I use either or but not both. the HP is so diluted as not to have affected my face, however I did don a shower cap because I didn't want it bleaching my hair.
I would wash the face with a cloth rather than submerging in it and avoid the eyes.
GOOD LUCK. IF YOU WISH TO CONTACT WITH ME.janetwhiteside(at)live.co.uk
L-Lysine
Posted by Debbie (Melbourne, Australia ) on 07/30/2011
RE your daughter not liking apple cider vinegar, try hiding it in Apple Juice.
L-Lysine
Posted by Jfm (London, England) on 07/30/2011
To: Janet from Kendal. Thanks for your interesting reply. Just wondering if I've understood you correctly. Would I use both the vinegar and the Hydrogen Peroxide in the bath at the same time? (2 cupfuls of each)? I know what you mean about the Hydrogen Peroxide, just the name of it scares the hell out of me. I think because it sounds so chemical, I have visions of some mad scientist with a test tube in a laboratory with Hydrogen Peroxide bubbling away in it.
I don't know if you will know the answer to this but is Hydrogen Peroxide safe to use on the face? Is it dangerous if you get it near your eyes?
I will also try and bribe my daughter to drink some Apple Cider Vinegar, she tried it once and hated it!
Thanks.
L-Lysine
Posted by Janet (Kendal, U.k) on 07/30/2011
RE-bathing in Vinegar I used the plain old malt , much cheaper only used a couple of times a couple of cup fulls to a bath. Was a bit scared to be honest with the HP, but same with that. (and I am still here.!!! Lol. )but the relief I got was instantely felt.
The burn, itch, pain cycle was broken. Let me sleep far more restfully. And help me feel much better all round. I continue to do the above once a week to maintain but but never felt this good in months.
Maybe you can persuade your daughter to drink a little too I do but ACV with BS. it alkalise your systom which I believe was the root of the problem.
Hope she feels better soon , for anyone that hasn, t had this to contend with it, s a blessing because it, s damned right awful.
P.S be great to know if it helps her. :)
L-Lysine
Posted by Jfm (London, England) on 07/29/2011
To Janet from Kendal, Uk. Thanks for your reply. When you say your hives have now gone was that due to bathing in the AVC or Hydrogen Peroxide? If so, what quantity of AVC or HP did you use in the bath? And how long did it take before you completely got rid of the hives? Thank you.
L-Lysine
Posted by Janet (Kendal, U.k) on 07/29/2011
Talking from my own experiance, I have found bathing in vinegar or hp the very best relief and they've gone now.!!!
L-Lysine
Posted by Jfm (London, England) on 07/28/2011
I have a 10 year old daughter who has been suffering from Hives for the last couple of months. She has outbreaks every few days with a red, itchy, lumpy rash all over her face, her legs, her torso and inside her lips.
I was thinking of starting her on Vitamin C and L-lysine as I have read that these could be helpful for Hives. The problem is I have no idea whether L-lysine is safe for children to take. I wonder if anyone on this site can please advise me?
Thank you.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Maicalani (Minneapolis, Mn, Usa) on 07/28/2011
★★★★★
Yes! Finally something natural that helped with my chronic hives!! I started getting hives in Feburary of this year, was put on a few different antihistamines; prednisone was the only thing that would suppress my daily, out of control hives. I gained 25 lbs in 2 months, moonface, etc. I tried H202 therapy for a month, mangosteen juice, Vit B... I came across this site and saw that some people had luck with ACV. I went out and bought some with the mother. I took 5mg of Prednisone last on July 8th, started ACV (2tsp 2x day) on the 10th. I've only had very mild hives since then. 90% of the time since the 10th (18 days now), I haven't had any hives!! I am so thankful. Thank you Earth Clinic!!
Iodine
Posted by Laurie Anne (Ridge Manor, Fl, Usa) on 07/26/2011
After finding temporary success with many therapies such as ACV, digestive enzymes and an antihistamine diet, I am very pleased to share that I have permanently resolved my hives by taking lugols iodine 2% 2-6 drops, twice a day in water ( with 1/2 tsp. ACV when I remember ). As advised on other websites, I also am mindful to continue taking selenium, magnesium and vit. C, but not at the same time as the iodine (vit. C ). I have been suffering from this condition for 3 years and found it to exacerbate with heat, many different foods and stress.
Apparently iodine is beneficial for every dermatological condition, as it is used by every cell in the body, with increased use by the endocrine system ( yes it balances the thyroid, regulates estrogen production and diminishes cysts in the breasts and ovaries ) and the skin. You could easily substitute iosol iodine and take appx. 6-10 drops twice a day to get a similar effect. I recommend these two products because they have iodine and potassium iodide and the body needs both for optimal health. Iodine has numerous other uses and benefits and I am now recommending it to every one I know... It's well worth the cost and I have had no side effects except some fatigue for the first few days of use. Iodine will displace other heavy metals and I also advise researching "bromism" or bromine toxicity as well.
General Feedback
Posted by Philippa (Surrey, Bc, Canada) on 07/20/2011
I have read several times about hives "breaking out". What does this mean? What happens when a hive bursts open?
Multiple Remedies
Posted by Kitty (Perth, Australia) on 05/16/2011
ACV, Iodine, Op
Posted by Sheila (San Diego, Ca, Usa) on 04/19/2011
Thanks, Lisa. I'm already a part of the same group if you mean the one with Victoria and Stephanie moderating. I'm new to the iodine protocol, and am reading through all of the files. I did have the info you mentioned, and appreciate you posting it.
The saltwater cleanse works, but it takes getting used to. It helps. With the severity of the bromide detox I'm experiencing, I'm contemplating now how long I've been so toxic.
ACV, Iodine, Op
Posted by Lisa (Rabat, Morocco) on 04/19/2011
Hi Sheila, I belong to an iodine group on yahoo and they have a recommended protocol to follow when taking iodine. You should make sure to take these supplements daily:
Vitamin C - 2,000-5,000 mg
Magnesium - 400 mg
Selenium - 200-400 mcg
unrefined sea salt (Celtic, Himalayan) - 1/2 tsp
For the bromide detox symptoms you can use another 1/2 tsp unrefined salt in 1/2 cup of water followed by 12 oz of water every 30-45 minutes until urination begins. The chloride binds to the bromide in the blood and carries it out through the kidneys. Taking 12.5 mg of Lugol's is actually quite a small dose and some recommend taking a minimum of 50 mg. Don't give up on taking it. I hope this helps you.
ACV, Iodine, Op
Posted by Sheila (San Diego, Ca, Usa) on 04/18/2011
When I increased my iodine/iodide to 2 drops of Lugol's 5% (12.5 mg) my face, throat, and the skin on my sternum started to break out in a rash and some hives. Itched like mad. I had built up to 2 drops in a matter of a few weeks, but it seems the 2 drops is just too much for my system to handle at this point. I'm lowering it to 1 drop (6.25 mg) of Lugol's 5% to see if my skin calms down, and if not, I will go back to taking World Organic liquid potassium iodide equalling 3 mg until I can safely increase w/o the rash symptoms.
I have also been taking vit C, E, A, a multi, and an assortment of liver and kidney-supportive supplements. I believe my rash is a detox reaction of bromide from taking Lugol's.
ACV has helped a great deal with the breakout and the itching. I am consuming and using diluted ACV topically. It has soothed my skin considerably in a matter of a few days.
General Feedback
Posted by Alena (San Francisco, Ca) on 04/03/2011
I have been suffering from what I think is hives for the past two day. Some history-
For the past 3 weeks I have been on a liver cleansing diet (Fat Fl--h) toward the end of the 3rd week I forgot to take the suppliments and the physilium husk/ cranberry water as reguraly. Some one reminded me when you are losing weight especially fat then the toxins that are mostly stored in thoes fat cells get released in the blood stream and somehow have to be flushed out if you are not keeping regular bathroom visits it does not get out of your body quickly enough. The released toxins could be the reason for my hives? The hives developed under my chin and on my shoulder in the same area where I had a hard to get rid of pimple.
On this diet I have been taking-
milk thistle, evening primrose oil, flax seed oil and lots of ACV. I was already on a no sugar, no carbs, no beans, or dairy products diet for the hives I have tried castor oil rubbed directly on the affected area and started taking some caprylic acid. The hives are not increasing in area but are still very itchi.
Would love to hear any comments. It's ironic that I should get hives for the first time when my system has been cleansed. Perhaps it has to get worse before it gets better?
Hives Triggers
Posted by Itchyscratchy (Sydney, Nsw Australia) on 01/28/2011
Dr Ted
Firstly I'd like to say yours is one of the best natural healing websites on the net. Well done. I broke out in a severe rash of hives over the last weekend and I have never been allergic to anything in my life. The only change I have made recently is that I started taking Acetyl L Carnitine with Alpha Lipoic Acid as a cognitive supplement, which I might add is FANTASTIC in that regard. I started the ACL and ALA three weeks before the onset of the rash, which lasted four days and led to a short course of Prednisone and Phenergan. Could the supplements have been the cause of my new friend - Hives!
Thanking you. ItchyScratchy
Kefir
Posted by Anonymous (Kansas City, Mo) on 01/23/2011
★★★★★
My 1 year old has had daily hives for about 3 months following an upper respiratory infection. I could control them with an antihistamine but he seemed so groggy. I gave him a glass of Kefir daily for about a week and they have finally resolved.
