How to Treat Hives With Cream of Tartar
Hives can be brought on by any number of causes. Whether related to allergies, stress or the climate, hives are unattractive and uncomfortable. A paste made with cream of tartar is a natural way to relieve the itching and swelling of hive-infested skin, and vitamin E helps heal and restore the area. Though this treatment works well on everyday outbreaks related to stress or the sun, it is imperative to ensure the hives are not related to a serious allergic reaction. If this is the case, seek medical attention immediately.
Instructions
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Wash the afflicted area with soap and water, and dry with a clean towel.
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Put the cream of tartar into a bowl and add warm water a teaspoonful at a time until a thick paste forms. The paste should have the consistency of mashed potatoes.
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Apply a dense layer of the paste to the hives. Allow the paste to dry and flake off on its own. If itching persists or worsens, rinse off the paste and seek medical help. The acid in the cream of tartar draws out the itch and cools the area, allowing the hives to heal. The dry paste also serves as a protective barrier, keeping you from scratching the hives.
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Rinse skin. Apply vitamin E oil, a few drops at a time, to the affected area and massage the oil into your skin. The vitamin E oil will moisturize and heal your skin, therefore keeping the site from growing dry or infected. If you suspect the hives are the result of poison oak, ivy or sumac, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after this step to avoid spreading the rash.
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Tips & Warnings
Taking a vitamin E supplement daily can help reduce chronic outbreaks of hives. Be sure to check with a doctor before using vitamin E on your skin or starting a vitamin E regimen.
Always explore possible causes for hives before treating them, and seek a doctor's opinion if necessary. Food allergies, in particular, have a quick onset and can be deadly.
