What kind of water should be used to wash hives for relieving itching?
Nov 29, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
In general, water-based cleansing methods that can be used to relieve itching from urticaria include warm water, normal saline, peppermint water, honeysuckle water, and mugwort leaf water. Washing the affected area with warm water at a temperature of 32–38°C gently cleanses the skin, reduces external irritation, promotes local blood circulation, and alleviates skin tightness and itching. It is important to avoid water that is too hot or too cold, as extreme temperatures may worsen skin discomfort.
Generally, the following water-based cleansing methods can be used to relieve itching caused by urticaria: lukewarm water, normal saline, peppermint water, honeysuckle water, and mugwort leaf water. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Lukewarm water: Washing the affected area with water at a temperature of 32–38°C gently cleanses the skin, reduces external irritation, promotes local blood circulation, and helps alleviate skin tightness and itching. Avoid water that is too hot or too cold, as extreme temperatures may worsen skin discomfort.
2. Normal saline: Normal saline is mild and has an osmotic pressure similar to human body fluids. When used to clean areas affected by urticaria, it soothes the skin, reduces inflammatory responses, relieves itching, and removes allergens or secretions from the skin surface, thereby minimizing irritation.
3. Peppermint water: After boiling an appropriate amount of peppermint in water and allowing it to cool, use it to wash the affected area. Components in peppermint stimulate nerve endings in the skin, producing a cooling sensation that rapidly inhibits itch signal transmission and alleviates itching symptoms. This method is particularly suitable for urticaria accompanied by a noticeable burning sensation.
4. Honeysuckle water: Boil dried honeysuckle in water, then cool and strain it before using it to cleanse the affected area. Honeysuckle has properties that clear heat, detoxify, and reduce inflammation, helping to relieve redness, swelling, and itching caused by urticaria and improving overall skin discomfort.
5. Mugwort leaf water: Simmer mugwort leaves in water for 15–20 minutes, then allow it to cool before washing the affected area. Active components in mugwort help soothe the skin, reduce itching caused by allergic reactions, and support skin stability, making it suitable for recurrent episodes of urticaria.
When washing, maintain proper water temperature and avoid vigorous rubbing of the skin. Each washing session should not exceed 5–10 minutes. After cleansing, gently pat the skin dry with a clean towel and promptly apply a gentle moisturizer to lock in hydration. If the rash spreads, itching worsens, or symptoms such as difficulty breathing occur, seek immediate medical attention to prevent delays in treatment.
