We all look forward to the sun but the Brits are notoriously bad at dealing with the heat.  As we sit packed into our work offices and call centres, suffering poor air conditioning and sweating in our office attire, prickly heat or heat rash can strike.

What is prickly heat?

Prickly heat occurs when un-evaporated sweat blocks the pores on the skin.  An itchy irritating rash can occur which is recognized by small, red, inflamed blotches and tiny blisters on the affected area. 

Home and Herbal Remedies aim to cool and soothe the inflamed skin, soak up excess moisture and prevent infection.  However to prevent prickly heat in first place wear loose, cool, cotton clothing, get plenty of cold showers and lots of air to your body.

If you have been struck by heat rash here are some herbal remedies that can help:

Yellow dock

Make an infusion by boiling a few handfuls of dock in a couple of cups of water and apply as a wash to itchy inflamed skin. 

Aloe Vera

Slice open an Aloe Vera leaf and scrape out the cooling gel and apply to the affected area.  Alternatively use a good pre-made Aloe Vera gel. 

Chamomile 

Chamomile lotion can be applied to the affected areas to soothe and cool.