Natural Ayurvedic remedies for prickly heat
Prickly heat, also known as Heat rash or miliaria rubra, is a common skin condition that occurs when sweat glands are blocked and sweat accumulates under the skin. This causes small, red, itchy bumps that can be very uncomfortable and irritating. Prickly heat can affect anyone, but it is more common in babies and children, as their sweat glands are not fully developed. Prickly heat usually affects areas where there is friction or where clothing is tight, such as the neck, chest, back, armpits, groin and thighs.
Fortunately, there are some natural Ayurvedic remedies that can help soothe prickly heat and prevent its recurrence. Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine that uses herbs, diet, and lifestyle to balance the body and mind. According to Ayurveda, prickly heat is caused by an imbalance of pitta dosha, which is the principle of heat and transformation in the body. Pitta dosha can be aggravated by hot weather, spicy foods, alcohol, stress, and other factors.
Here are some of the natural Ayurvedic remedies for prickly heat that you can try at home:
- Aloe vera and cucumber gel: -
Aloe vera and cucumber are both cooling and soothing for the skin. They have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce redness, swelling, and itching. To make this gel, blend some fresh aloe vera pulp and cucumber slices together. Apply this gel on the affected areas and leave it for 20 minutes. Wash it off with cool water. Repeat this twice a day until the rash heals. - Sandalwood and rose water paste: -
Sandalwood and rose water are also cooling and calming for the skin. They have antiseptic qualities that can prevent infection and bad odor. Sandalwood also has a pleasant fragrance that can uplift your mood. To make this paste, mix two tablespoons of sandalwood powder with enough rose water to form a thick paste. Apply this paste on the affected areas and let it dry naturally. Wash it off with cool water. Repeat this once or twice a day until the rash subsides. - Durva (Cynodon dactylon), Chandana (Sandalwood powder) and Ushira (Khas khas grass) paste: -
These ingradients are taken in equal quantities and fine paste is made. While making the paste, rose water may be added. This fine paste is applied over the prickly heat affected area. Repeat this twice a day until the rash heals. - Neem leaf paste: -
Neem is a powerful herb that has healing properties for various skin problems. It can fight inflammation, itching, and bacteria that can cause prickly heat. To make this paste, grind some fresh neem leaves with a little water to form a smooth paste. Apply this paste on the affected areas and leave it for 10 minutes. Wash it off with cold water. Repeat this once or twice a day until the rash clears. - Multani mitti or Fuller's earth: -
Multani mitti is a natural clay that can absorb excess oil and sweat from the skin. It can also soothe irritation and pain caused by prickly heat. To use this remedy, mix half a tablespoon of multani mitti with some water to form a paste. Apply this paste on the affected areas and leave it for 10 minutes. Wash it off with cold water. Repeat this once or twice a day until the rash improves. - Basil leaves paste: -
Basil leaves have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help treat prickly heat. They can also reduce itching and burning sensation caused by the rash. To use this remedy, make a paste by grinding some fresh basil leaves with some honey. Apply this paste on the affected areas and leave it for 15 minutes. Wash it off with cool water. Repeat this once or twice a day until the rash heals.
To prevent prickly heat from occurring, follow some simple tips:
- Stay cool and dry: - Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and hot weather as much as possible. Wear loose-fitting and breathable clothing made of natural fabrics like cotton or linen. Use talcum powder or cornstarch to absorb excess sweat from your skin.
- Take frequent cool showers: - Taking cool showers can help wash away sweat and dirt from your skin and prevent clogging of sweat glands. You can also add some baking soda or oatmeal to your bath water to soothe your skin.
- Stay hydrated: - Drinking plenty of water and fluids can help regulate your body temperature and flush out toxins from your body. You can also drink some herbal teas like mint, chamomile, or fennal.
- Avoid - spicy, oily, or sour foods that can aggravate pitta dosha (the fire element) in your body and cause more heat.
- Eat more cooling foods - like cucumber, melon, yogurt, coconut water, mint, fennel seeds, etc.
- Avoid - direct exposure to sunlight or use sunscreen or umbrella when going out.