In this article we will learn about the different methods to treat poison ivy. When planning for a nature outing, you should follow some precautions to make yourself and your trip safe and pleasant. One of such precautions is related to poison ivy. Poison ivy is a notorious plant known for causing several skin problems. When you come in contact with the poisonous leaves, roots, or stems of a poison ivy plant, it can cause you a severe and unbearable itchy rash. About 10 to 50 million people in the U.S. are affected by poison ivy every year. In fact, this toxic plant comprises the single most common cause of allergic reactions in the US. If you ever suffer this condition, it is strongly recommended to avoid itching the rash. Scratching can irritate the reacting skin, which can lead to severe infection. It’s also recommended to keep the affected areas clean.
Symptoms of Poison Ivy:
Some of the common symptoms of poison ivy include:
- Pain
- Strong inflammation
- Burning sensation
- Fever
- Blisters
Although, a poison ivy rash goes away on its own after a few days, but the itching caused by this toxic plant can drive you absolutely insane. There are several home remedies to treat poison ivy naturally and fast. These remedies can effectively alleviate the various symptoms of poison ivy.
Home Remedies to Treat Poison Ivy Fast and Naturally:
1.) Baking Soda to Treat Poison Ivy Fast
Baking soda is a classic homemade remedy for poison ivy treatment. Baking soda is an excellent drying agent. It has fine anti-inflammatory properties which can help alleviate the inflammation and itching associated with poison ivy.
Directions:
Method 1:
- Take 3 tsp of baking soda and mix with 1 tsp of water to make a thick paste.
- Apply the paste on the rash and leave it on to dry.
- Then, wash it off with cold water.
- Repeat this thrice daily to boost the healing process.
Method 2:
- Optionally, you can take a soothing baking soda bath.
- For this, simply add 1 cup of baking soda in a lukewarm bath water. Stir it gently.
- Soak yourself in the bath water to relieve symptoms.
2.) Oatmeal to Treat Poison Ivy
Oatmeal has 2 compounds present in it which are known as phenols and avenanthramides. Both these compound has anti-inflammatory properties which help lower the inflammation and irritation caused by the skin’s reaction to urushiol. Urushiol is a substance present in the poison ivy plant which is responsible for the irritation in the skin.
Directions:
Method 1:
- Boil some oatmeal in water.
- Let it to cool for a few minutes.
- Then apply it to the affected skin area while it is still warm.
- Leave it on to get dry on its own.
- Afterwards, rinse it off with lukewarm water.
- This simple home remedy will give you quick relief from itching.
Method 2:
- Optionally, take a few tablespoons of oatmeal powder and add to warm bath water.
- Soak the affected area in this water for about 30 minutes.
- This will help in drying out a rash that has started to blister. It also provide relief from the itching.
- It will also help moisturize and soften your skin, which in turn lock moisture and protect skin from foreign irritants.
3.) Aloe Vera to Get Relief from Poison Ivy
Aloe Vera is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help minimize poison ivy symptoms. For this, you need some fresh Aloe Vera leaves. If you don’t have an Aloe Vera plant, you can purchase a bottle of the Aloe Vera gel from the local store. But, make sure that it is at least 90% real Aloe Vera.
Directions:
- Just slice a leaf from a fresh Aloe Vera plant. Extract the gel out of it.
- Apply the gel to the affected areas several times a day.
- This will provide you instant relief from itching and pain.
4.) Rubbing Alcohol to Treat Poison Ivy Rash
Rubbing alcohol is a chemical having 70% isopropyl or absolute alcohol. It is generally used as a topical application. It has great disinfectant, cooling and soothing properties which can help get rid of the symptoms of poison ivy fast. It also sanitize the affected skin and helps prevent skin infection.
Directions:
- Simply spread the rubbing alcohol over the concerned area and cover it with gauze.
- Repeat this a few times a day for 2-3 days.
- If you apply it immediately after getting in contact with the toxic plant, it will help slow down and minimize the size of the rash as well as your discomfort.
5.) Buttermilk to Heal Poison Ivy Naturally
Buttermilk is known for its high protein content. A protein present in buttermilk help draw out fluid from the blisters. It also gives soothing effect which will give you relief from itching.
Directions:
Method 1:
- Take equal amount of buttermilk, salt and vinegar.
- Rub the mixture on the affected area.
- Though it is a little painful, but this remedy will help dry up the rash instantly.
- Plus, it will help reduce itching and soothe the skin.
Method 2:
- Alternatively, add some buttermilk in warm water and use it to wash the affected area.
- This remedy is very soothing on itchy skin.
- Repeat this process once daily or until the condition improves.
6.) Banana Peel for Poison Ivy Treatment
Banana peel is another effective home remedy to rescue you because of its cooling soothing properties. This remedy is quite useful if you have blisters which have broken open.
Directions:
- Simply peel the skin of a ripe banana.
- Rub the inside of the peel on the affected skin area for quick cooling relief.
- Continue the process 2-3 times a day.
7.) Acorns for Poison Ivy Treatment
Acorns have fine antiseptic and antiviral properties which can be used to cure skin irritations and rashes, cuts, minor burns and abrasions as well as poison ivy.
Directions:
- Takes some fresh cracked acorns and boil in water for several minutes.
- Strain out the nuts and let the tannic water to cool.
- Soak a cotton ball in the water and apply it on the rashes.
- Do this 2 or 30 times a day.
- You can even freeze the tannic water in ice-cube trays.
- Use the ice cubes as cold compresses on the affected skin area.
8.) Cold Water to Treat Poison Ivy Fast
Applying cold compresses soon after getting in contact with the toxic plant can help reduce the severity and size of the developing rash. It will also will reduce itchiness in the area.
Directions:
Method 1:
- Simply soak a cotton ball in very cold water and dab it on the affected skin area.
- Leave it to air dry.
Method 2:
- Wrap some ice cubes and apply it on the affected area for several hours.
- Repeat the process again after 2 hours. Make sure you never apply ice directly on the skin.
- You can even keep the affected area under cold running water for 10-15 minutes.
- You can also use a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel.
9.) White Vinegar for Poison Ivy Treatment
White vinegar has acid, which can help prevent a rash from spreading. A compress of cold vinegar will help dry out the rash. It also helps in reducing the itchiness.
Directions:
- Take ½ cup of white vinegar with 1 ½ cups of water. Freeze the solution in the fridge for a couple of hours.
- Moisten a piece of cloth in the solution and press it against the affected skin area for 2 minutes.
- Wait for a few minutes and repeat again.
- Repeat this for a few minutes once daily for a 1 or 2 week.
10.) Watermelon to Get Rid of Poison Ivy
The rind of watermelon works as an excellent cold compress. On the other hand, the watermelon juice helps dry out blisters effectively. It is also one of the best home remedies to get rid of poison ivy rashes.
Directions:
Method 1:
- Rub a chilled watermelon rind gently over the rash. Leave it to dry on its own.
- Repeat this 3-4 times a day until your condition improves.
Method 2:
- Optionally, Take some watermelon along with the rind, mash and chill it in the refrigerator for one hour.
- Apply the mashed watermelon on the skin and allow it to dry naturally to have a soothing relief.
- Repeat this several times a day.
