Urticaria, commonly known as hives, is a skin condition marked by sudden red, itchy, swollen patches on the skin. In Ayurveda, urticaria is correlated with Sheetapitta, caused by the imbalance of three doshas. The condition may occur suddenly and may last from a few hours to several days. Common triggers for urticaria include allergens, certain medications, insect bites, stress, and environmental factors. Ayurvedic treatment for urticaria focuses on addressing the root cause by restoring dosha balance, purifying the blood, and strengthening immunity for long-term healing.
Urticaria Causes and Symptoms in Ayurveda
In Ayurveda, urticaria can be correlated with Sheetapitta, a condition caused by the vitiation of three doshas with predominant involvement of Vata Dosha. The word “Sheetapitta” comprises two words: ‘sheeta’ (cold) and ‘pitta’ (warm). The condition occurs due to the dominance of cold (existing in Kapha and Vata doshas) over Pitta dosha.
Common Triggers for Urticaria
Urticaria can be triggered by multiple factors, such as:
- Certain foods, including nuts, eggs, shellfish, milk, and wheat
- Use of certain medications, including penicillin, sulfa drugs, aspirin, and ibuprofen
- Environmental allergens, including pollen or dust
- Allergens such as latex, pet dander, pollen, and insect stings or bites
- Pressure on the skin, such as from sitting too long or a heavy backpack, can trigger a reaction.
- Excessive heat or cold exposure
- Chemicals in detergents, lotions, and cosmetics
- Emotional stress and hormonal imbalance
Read more: Ayurvedic Treatment for Anxiety
Ayurvedic View – Pitta Dosha Imbalance
As per Ayurveda, due to the above-said factors, Vata and Kapha doshas got aggravated, and in turn, they are mixed up with Pitta dosha. Further, these doshas spread all over the body and get accumulated beneath the skin, leading to red rashes, intense itching, and a pricking sensation.
Symptoms According to Ayurveda
The symptoms of urticaria can last anywhere from minutes to months—or even years. The common symptoms include:
- Raised welts: Small to large bumps on the skin that may appear alone or merge into larger patches.
- The welts are typically red or pink on lighter skin and can appear darker than the surrounding area or have a purplish tone on darker skin.
- Mild to intense itching accompanied by a burning or stinging sensation.
- Hives can appear, disappear, and reappear in a different spot, sometimes within a few hours.
- Swelling that occurs beneath the skin’s surface, often around the eyes, lips, hands, or feet.
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing in chronic conditions
Ayurvedic Treatment for Urticaria
Ayurvedic treatment for urticaria offers a comprehensive approach through purification therapies, oral medications, herbs, and lifestyle modifications. The therapies are incorporated in such a way as to meet the individual requirements of each person and their disease condition.
Herbal Remedies and Ayurvedic Medicines
Several classical Ayurvedic medicines for skin rashes and itching are recommended based on individual body constitution and dosha imbalance.
The single herbs for hives and itching include:
- Guduchi: Immunomodulator, anti-allergic, and anti-inflammatory
- Nimba: Antibacterial, anti-allergic, and blood-purifying
- Haridra: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and skin supportive
- Chandana: Cooling and anti-inflammatory
- Sariva: Blood purifier, cooling, and anti-inflammatory
The Ayurvedic medicines for urticaria include:
- Amritadi Kashaya
- Triphala Churna
- Haridra Khanda
- Ardraka Khanda
- Amruta Rajanyadi Kashaya
Disclaimer: Always consume Ayurvedic formulations under the guidance of a registered Ayurvedic practitioner.
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Panchakarma and Ayurvedic Detox for Skin Diseases
Panchakarma plays a vital role in Ayurvedic treatment for urticaria by eliminating toxins and balancing the body.
- Virechana (Purgation Therapy)
- Raktamokshana (Bloodletting)
- Vamana (Medicated Emesis)
- Abhayana with oils prepared with Eladi gana
- Lepa (Medicated Paste)
If you’re looking for holistic therapies that combine herbal care and detoxification, explore our Ayurveda Treatments in Kerala.
Diet and Lifestyle for Urticaria Relief
Ayurveda emphasizes diet and lifestyle along with Ayurvedic therapies.
Foods to Include:
- Fresh fruits such as pomegranates, papaya, and apples
- Vegetables, including bottle gourd, carrots, and cucumber
- Whole grains like rice and wheat
- Herbal teas and fresh coconut water
- Drinking plenty of water
Foods to Avoid:
- Spicy, oily, and fried foods
- Fermented foods like pickles and curd
- Seafood and processed meats
- Artificial sweeteners and preservatives
- Excessive caffeine and alcohol
- Peanuts and cashews
Lifestyle Factors
- Drinking herbal teas made from coriander seeds, fennel, and cumin
- Massaging the skin with cooling oils such as coconut oil or sandalwood oil
- Stress management with yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises
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Home Remedies and Natural Care for Urticaria
If you’re experiencing mild symptoms, try these urticaria home remedies for quick comfort:
- Apply cold compresses to soothe skin irritation
- Apply aloe vera gel or sandalwood paste to reduce itching and burning
- Drink plenty of warm water or herbal teas
- Adding powdered oatmeal to bathwater soothes the skin and reduces itching
- Avoid known triggers such as foods, allergens, stress, etc.
These home remedies for urticaria relief are simple yet effective when paired with lifestyle adjustments.
Preventing Urticaria Recurrence Through Ayurveda
Ayurveda focuses on long-term healing by addressing the root cause of urticaria through detoxification, diet, and stress management. Regular Panchakarma therapies and Rasayana herbs help cleanse toxins, balance doshas, and strengthen immunity. Adopting a cooling diet, staying hydrated, and practicing yoga further support skin health.
For complete rejuvenation, visit Back to Roots Kerala, an authentic Ayurvedic retreat in Kerala, offering personalized therapies and holistic care. With personalized care and natural treatments, Ayurveda not only soothes itching and allergies but also restores internal harmony for radiant, healthy skin.
FAQs
1. Can Ayurveda permanently cure urticaria?
Ayurveda can offer long-term relief for urticaria by addressing the root cause through detoxification, herbal therapies, and lifestyle correction. For complete rejuvenation and lasting relief, visit Back to Roots Kerala, an authentic Ayurvedic retreat in Kerala offering personalized care.
2 What is the best Ayurvedic medicine for urticaria?
Herbal formulations such as Amritadi Kashaya, Triphala Churna, and Haridra Khanda are among the best Ayurvedic medicines for urticaria. Expert guidance at Back to Roots Kerala ensures the right combination for your body type.
3. How long does Ayurvedic treatment take for urticaria?
The duration depends on severity and chronicity, usually ranging from a few weeks to a few months. Consistent therapy and lifestyle changes at Back to Roots Kerala can help achieve lasting results.
4. Is urticaria related to stress in Ayurveda?
Yes. Ayurveda identifies stress as a major trigger that aggravates Pitta and Vata doshas, worsening skin reactions. Stress management therapies at Back to Roots Kerala aid in calming the mind and reducing flare-ups.
5. Can Ayurvedic home remedies help mild urticaria?
Mild urticaria often responds well to home remedies, including neem, aloe vera, and turmeric. These can be complemented with expert care from Back to Roots Kerala for comprehensive and sustained healing.
