The most frequently reported UV allergy is polymorphic light eruption, also known as sun poisoning. Symptoms of PMLE and other sun allergies include rashes, itching, blisters and hives. Limiting sunlight exposure and taking ultraviolet light therapy may help, as can using over-the-counter or prescription creams and oral medication. Some herbal remedies reputedly sooth irritated skin or reduce UV sensitivity, but always ask your doctor before attempting any self-treatment for sun poisoning.
Aloe Vera
MayoClinic.com recommends aloe vera to treat the irritation and itching of some sun poisoning rashes. The leaves of the common aloe vera houseplant yield a gel that can be directly applied to affected areas. Alternatively, purchase ointments containing 0.5 percent aloe vera. Use your own aloe gel or store-bought aloe ointments three times a day. For initital treatments, rub a small amount of the gel on your skin to ensure you don't have an allergy to aloe vera. If your sun poisoning involves oozing blisters, ask your doctor if aloe vera gel is appropriate for these types of open wounds.
Green Tea
Whether taken in tea or capsule form, green tea provides radiation protection, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The antioxidants in green tea counteract damaging free radicals from sunlight, helping protect you not only from sun poisoning but also from the skin cancer resulting from long-term UV exposure. Use dried leaves for tea, or take 400 mg daily of the standardized extract. Green tea, which contains caffeine, is a stimulant. It may be unsuitable for people sensitive to caffeine or who are on specific medications. Check with your practitioner.
Astragalus
Taking a daily dose of astragalus may provide general antioxidant protection, as well as help your body fight the stress of a reaction to sunlight. Herbalists consider astragalus an adaptogen, meaning that helps your body fight a range of ailments. Roots from the Asian plant yield capsules, tinctures and topical ointments. For protection against sun poisoning, use extracts in capsule form. Standard dosing is three to four doses of 250 mg to 500 mg each day. Astragalus has few known side effects or drug interactions, but always clear the herbal remedy with a physician before using it for sun poisoning protection.
Rhodiola
According to UMMC, a standardized extract of 150 to 300 mg rhodiola, taken up to three times daily, provides some UV radiation protection. Like astragalus, the Nordic plant Rhodiola rosea is considered an adaptogen, in this case helping your body protect itself from the stress of sun poisoning. Few studies have been conducted on the herb, but currently no known side effects or drug interactions exist. Ask your doctor if rhodiola may be useful for sun poisoning protection.
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