Urticaria (Hives)

Definition

Urticaria (hives) are transient, itchy, raised skin lesions (wheals) that may appear anywhere on the body and often change size, shape, and location over minutes to hours.

Causes

• Temperature factors (combination or rapid shifts of cold and heat)
• Food allergens / incompatible food combinations
• Medications (e.g., some painkillers, antibiotics, antihypertensives, codeine)
• Intestinal worms; insect bites
• Contact irritants (e.g., Bhilawa / Semecarpus anacardium; Kaunch / Mucuna pruriens)
• Improperly performed Panchakarma (e.g., Asamyak Vaman) per classical guidance

Symptoms

Early signs can include thirst, reduced appetite, nausea, eye congestion, and body heaviness. Primary features are intensely itchy wheals with pale centers and red/pink borders; flushing, swelling, and headache may accompany flares.

Ayurvedic Perspective (Shitpitta / Urticaria)

Frequent exposure to cold air with subsequent fluctuation can aggravate Kapha and Vata; together with aggravated Pitta, these influences may disseminate into the Rakta Dhatu (blood tissue) and localize in the skin (Sthana Samshraya), manifesting as Shitpitta (urticaria).

Supportive care emphasizes detoxification and balance of doshas, rekindling digestive fire with gentle herbs, nourishing the skin with appropriate oils, and soothing the mind. When indicated, classical Panchakarma modalities such as abhyanga (massage), svedana (fomentation), carefully indicated vaman and virechana are used under supervision.

These measures are complementary to dermatology/allergy care, not a substitute for emergency treatment in severe reactions (e.g., angioedema, breathing difficulty).

Diet & Lifestyle Advice

• Avoid sweets (sugar, jaggery), alcohol, and heavy-to-digest or incompatible foods.
• Limit sour items; favor freshly prepared, easily digestible meals.
• Include cooked split grams (legumes), bitter gourd, and pomegranate; use honey in place of sugar.
• Prefer mustard oil for cooking (as tolerated).
• Occasional light fasting or very light foods (porridge, boiled rice, vegetable soups) may be advised.
• Avoid suppressing natural urges, excess sun/wind exposure, daytime sleep, and overexertion.

Some Home Remedies

• To support immunity and soothe, many traditions suggest turmeric (Haridra): 1 tsp turmeric powder with warm milk or water, two–three times daily (check for individual tolerance and interactions).
• Gentle mustard oil application followed by a lukewarm bath may reduce itching.
• Topical aloe vera gel to affected areas for 30–40 minutes may offer comfort.

If hives are accompanied by swelling of lips/tongue, trouble breathing, dizziness, or recurrent severe flares, seek urgent medical care and consult your clinician before using herbs.

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