Understanding Hives (Urticaria): A Chinese and Western Medicine Perspective

Relieve Itching and Restore Balance Naturally

Hives, also known as urticaria, are red, itchy, and often swollen patches or welts on the skin that can appear suddenly. They may last for a few hours or persist for days, weeks, or even months in chronic cases. Hives are often caused by an allergic reaction—but not always.In Western medicine, hives are treated with antihistamines and sometimes corticosteroids. But in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), hives are viewed as a manifestation of internal imbalance, and treatment focuses on resolving the root cause to prevent recurrence.

🔹 What Are the Symptoms of Hives?

Raised, red or pink welts on the skin

Itching, stinging, or burning sensations

Welts that come and go, or move around the body

Swelling (angioedema), especially around the eyes or lips

Triggered by stress, certain foods, medications, heat, cold, or unknown causes

There are two main types:

Acute urticaria: Lasts less than 6 weeks

Chronic urticaria: Lasts more than 6 weeks and may not have a clear trigger

🔹 How Chinese Medicine Understands Hives

In TCM, hives are referred to as “Feng Zhen” (wind rash) and are often caused by external wind, internal heat, or blood deficiency with wind. Common patterns include:

Wind-Heat Invasion → Sudden rash, redness, intense itching, triggered by heat, spicy food, or emotions

Wind-Cold Invasion → Pale or pink welts, worse with cold, often in early or acute stages

Blood Heat with Dampness → Chronic or stubborn hives, sometimes with digestive issues or a greasy tongue coat

Blood Deficiency with Wind → Itching without a strong rash, worse at night, with fatigue or pale complexion

TCM treatment focuses on expelling wind, clearing heat, nourishing the blood, and regulating the immune and digestive systems.

🌿 TCM Treatments for Hives

✅ Acupuncture

Acupuncture can help regulate the immune system, reduce inflammation, and calm the nervous system. It’s especially effective for:

Reducing acute flare-ups

Managing chronic hives

Easing itching and emotional stress

✅ Herbal Medicine

Herbal formulas are customized based on your pattern and may:

Clear internal heatCool the blood

Expel wind and dampness

Strengthen the Spleen (to prevent recurrence)

✅ Diet and Lifestyle Guidance

In TCM, certain foods may contribute to “heat” or “dampness” and should be avoided during active outbreaks. These may include:

Spicy or fried foods Alcohol Shellfish Dairy or sugar (especially in chronic hives)

We also provide stress-reduction techniques and digestive support to help address root causes.

💬 A Natural, Lasting Approach to Skin Health

While medications may suppress hives temporarily, Chinese medicine aims to address why your body is reacting—and guide it back to a more balanced, resilient state.Whether your hives are short-term or chronic, Chinese medicine offers a safe, drug-free approach to calm your skin, restore harmony, and prevent recurrence.