How Can Naturopathic Medicine Help With Hives?

Interview with Deborah Wiancek, Naturopathic Doctor.
Posted on Jul 27, 2010 by Joséphine Beck

Hives (or Urticaria) are a kind of skin rash notable for dark red, raised, itchy bumps. It is estimated that 5% of all people will develop urticaria at some point in their lives. What can you do to get rid of them? In this interview, Dr Deborah Wiancek tells us how Naturopathic Physicians can help treat hives.

Are hives usually caused by an allergic reaction?

Yes, hives can be caused by allergies to drugs, skin care products, laundry detergent, environment allergies and food allergies. Hives can also be caused by autoimmune disorders and hormonal issues.

Do hives go away on their own or can they turn serious?

Hives generally do not go away on there own. Hives are due to a problem with your immune system and left untreated can cause autoimmune type problems.

How can naturopathic medicine help people with hives?

As naturopathic physicians we investigate the cause of the hives and treat accordingly. Without identifying the cause you are mainly treating the symptoms and hives will never go away.

Why using natural treatments instead of medication to deal with hives?

Natural treatments do not have the side effects of medications. And natural treatments can help support your immune system rather than suppress it.

I heard that mint, peppermint, or stinging nettle could help relieve itching and inflammation. According to you, what are the most effective herbs for hives and how should they be used?

Again identifying the cause herbs can help a little but if you do not get to the cause the hives will keep returning. Stinging nettles can help. I generally do not use mint or peppermint for hives. It really all depends on the patient.

Do you believe a proper diet can help eliminate hives?

Yes doing an anti-inflammatory diet by eliminating white flour, sugar, alcohol and caffeine can be helpful.

What about supplements such as Essential Fatty Acids or vitamin B12?

Yes essential fatty acids are anti-inflammatory so fish oil and flax seed oil can be very helpful. Vitamin B12 can be helpful but it is generally not a main treatment that I use.

What kind of treatments would you recommend for children with hives?

Again it would be identifying the cause of the hives. Know two people are alike when treating hives. There are many different types of causes.

About Dr Deborah Wiancek

Dr Deborah Wiancek is a graduate of Bastyr University, school of naturopathic medicine. She has founded and practices Naturopathic medicine at the Riverwalk Natural Health Clinic and Natural Pharmacy LLC in Edwards, Colorado for the past twelve years. She has clients from all over the world and all walks of life. Her main clinical interests are Botanical Medicine, Homeopathy, Nutritional therapy and Craniosacral therapy. She specializes in working with allergies, athletes, dermatology, gynecology, gastrointestinal issues, pain management and pediatric health care. She participates in the NERC residency program through Bastyr University and trains naturopathic residents in her clinic.

Dr. Wiancek is featured in the Idiot’s Guide to Natural Remedies and author of Natural Healing Companion and created one of the first CD-ROM’s in natural Medicine called The Complete Natural Reference. She has been broadcasted by over 2,000 radio stations on various health topics. Dr. Wiancek had done various seminars including the latest Research in Breast Cancer Prevention for the Betty Ford Breast Cancer Association. She has been featured in the Women’s World, Ski Magazine, Energy Times, Prevention Magazine, Natural Health, United Hemispheres and Cleansing magazine. She also writes a monthly health article for the Vail Daily.