Baking Soda For Hives

Health Tip of the Day

Baking soda is an excellent home remedy to soothe itchy, miserable hives caused by allergies.

According to the Mayo Clinic, baking soda contains antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties and is excellent for skin irritations, rashes, bug bites, and especially hives.

A baking soda bath with one-half cup to 1 cup of baking soda added to a lukewarm bath works well. Soak for 20 to 30 minutes.

As hives appear in various areas of the body a baking soda paste can bring relief. The paste reduces the inflammation by drawing out water from the raised wheals. The alkalinity of baking soda relieves the itching.

A baking soda paste works immediately and lasts for several hours.

To make a paste mix a small amount of baking soda and water just enough to make a mixture which will stay on the affected area. Leave on the skin until it dries and flakes off or remove with cool water after about 15 minutes.

Calamine lotion and oatmeal baths are also effective.

Steroid creams, antihistamines, and corticosteroid drugs need to be used only as a last resort in extreme cases.