Herbal Cures: Poison Ivy

You can get the rash commonly known as poison ivy from an allergic reaction to the plant resin urushiol, found in poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac. The stubborn resin can cling to clothes, shoes, garden tools, workbenches, pet fur, and other surfaces for months before it is transferred to the skin. It can also penetrate lightweight clothing and, if the plant is burned, can be inhaled, affecting the respiratory tract.

Generally, the rash appears from two hours to 14 days after contact with the resin and lasts up to three weeks. Symptoms can include headache and fatigue. If the reaction is particularly severe, covers a large or sensitive area, or affects the nose, mouth, or throat, see a doctor.

Once the resin is on the skin, it can spread to other parts of the body and to other people. Therefore, as soon as you have been in contact with the plant, wash, dry, and treat the skin with rubbing alcohol. Also wash any clothing and shoes that may be tainted with the resin. Corticosteroid creams can soothe the skin, keep the rash dry, and reduce swelling. Calamine lotion, aluminum acetate (also known as Burow's solution), and baths and poultices made with oatmeal, cornstarch, or baking soda can relieve itchy, inflamed skin.

Herbal Remedies

Jewelweed Extract sap from the stem or leaves of fresh jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), or make a tea by adding any part of the herb to boiling water. Steep, then strain. Apply the sap or tea up to three times a day.

Plantain Extract the plant's juice by pressing its fresh leaves. Apply the juice to the rash up to four times a day. Contact dermatitis may occur.