The Best Supplements for Prickly Heat

Prickly heat is an itchy, painful skin condition in which the pores on the skin's surface become clogged and irritated, and eventually rupture; resulting in a red rash. It is most common in very warm, humid climates where heavy sweating occurs. If the sweat glands become clogged after using a talcum powder or wearing nonabsorbent clothing, the sweat actually escapes to adjacent tissues, resulting in the red, itchy rash. While the best medicine for prickly heat is practicing preventative measures--such as keeping yourself as cool and clean as possible--there are several supplements and herbal remedies that may help alleviate the burning sensation once it is in rash form.

Aloe Vera

• The gel found within the aloe vera plant is cool and calming when applied to a prickly heat rash. The soothing effect makes aloe vera an effective herbal remedy for the burning sensation. It is easy to use, as well. Simply snap the end off an aloe vera leaf, squeeze the gel from within, and apply it liberally to the entire rash. Repeat as often as necessary.

Calendula

• Another helpful herb is calendula. Apply calendula lotion or gel to the affected area to ease the itching and burning. Having both astringent and antiseptic attributes, calendula also aids in healing.

Neem

• A nice, cool dressing of neem leaves provides instant relief from prickly heat pain. Apply wet neem leaves to the rash and allow the dressing to dry. Once completely dry, remove the leaves and rinse the area with cool water.

Sandalwood Paste

• A popular remedy for prickly heat is sandalwood paste. Mix sandalwood powder with rose water until a paste is created. Smear the paste over the rash. The result is two-fold: it helps to heal the prickly heat and helps prevent excessive sweating that could further clog the pores.

Vitamin C

• With its natural antihistamine effect, vitamin C is a great remedy for a prickly heat rash. It will minimize inflammation, which will reduce itching, and can possibly prevent prickly heat from occurring all together. To ward off this rash, take 1 g vitamin C three times a day.