Poison ivy are plants that contain uroshiol oil that causes irritation when it comes in contact with the skin. They cause an allergic reaction that results in itchiness and skin rashes. Redness, swelling, red patches, inflammation, burning sensation and itchiness are some of the symptoms of disease caused by poison ivy. If the plant is burnt and the smoke is inhaled, it can affect lungs and can lead to severe cases.
The transmission of infection caused by poison ivy from one person to another is due to different reasons viz. direct contact with the plant, indirect contact or airborne contact. Indirect contact is by touching the things that are directly in contact with the plant while airborne contact can be from the release of smoke by burning poison ivy plant that penetrates the skin, throat, nose or respiratory system.
Wash the affected part with soap and detergent, and then apply medicinal herbs for effective use. Following are the medicinal herbs that can be used for the treatment of infection from poison ivy.
Top Herbal Remedies for Poison Ivy
Jewelweed
Use spotted or pale jewelweed for the treatment of poison ivy. Use the stem part of this herb; slice it and rub it over the infected area. Another remedy is to chop the jewelweed herb and brew it in boiling water. This infusion can be stored for future use. It can be kept in the refrigerator and can be used in the form of ice for treating the infected part.
It can also be used in the form of soap or salve and can be applied over the infected skin. Salve can be prepared by crushing jewelweed and covering it with one cup of olive oil. Warm and mix one ounce of beeswax oil in it. This remedy is helpful in curing skin irritation, eczema etc.
Witch Hazel
Soak cotton ball in liquid witch hazel and apply over the affected area. It helps in cleansing as well as in providing relief from itchiness. It reduces inflammation and heals acne. Itchiness and swelling also get reduced using this herb. Other than poison ivy, it cures poison oak as well. Using lavender oil with witch hazel is also very useful in curing poison ivy. It can be applied a number of times in a day that provides better relief. It is a good drying agent and promotes healing.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Use apple cider vinegar in the organic form for treating poison ivy. Apply it over the affected area and it would remove all the poison. It can also be used in the form of compress and can be reused when needed.
Goldenseal
Root of goldenseal herb is effective in curing poison ivy. Make a paste by mixing root of this herb in some amount of water and apply over the infected area. It would help in reducing infection caused by poison ivy. It can also be taken in the form of tea which is the most effective method of using this herb for treating this ailment. This herb can be used in the form of supplement and can treat poison oak as well.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera in the form of gel is very helpful in curing poison ivy. Extract out gel from the inner flesh of the leaves and apply over the infected area. Its organic form can also be purchased from health stores. It can also be used in the form of juice.
Calendula
Calendula herb can be used as calendula salve and can be used in the form of moisturizer or oil. Flower petals of Calendula herb can be used for making tincture or oil, that can be applied over the affected area. It is also used in making ointment or cream. Apply Calendula oil over the infected area for two to three times in a day. It should not be used by pregnant women.
St. John’s Wort
Take two tablespoons of passionflower extract. Mix one tablespoon of oats extract in it. Further add two tablespoons of skullcaps extract and half tablespoon of St. John’s Wort extract. in it Combine with orange juice or water. This mixture would help in healing poison ivy. St. John’s Wort can be used in the form of oil or tincture.
Comfrey Root
Leaf and root of comfrey have medicinal properties. Comfrey contains rosemarinic acid that has anti-inflammatory properties. Make a poultice using comfrey root along with aloe vera, marshmallow root, witch hazel and slippery elm that would be helpful for healing rashes. Make an ointment using marigold, marshmallow and comfrey that would provide a soothing effect. Comfrey in the form of salve is beneficial for treating skin allergic reactions and eczema.
Plantain
It is one of the most effective herbs for the treatment of poison ivy. Extract prepared from leaves of plantain can be applied over the skin that can provide relief from poison ivy. It reduces itching associated with rashes and helps in drying up the blisters. The herb removes toxic materials from the skin. It can be chewed as well as used for topical medication.
Lavender
Lavender oil is a useful essential oil for the treatment of poison ivy. It helps in reducing itching and disinfecting the infected area. It can also be applied directly over the skin.
Peppermint
Oil prepared from peppermint herb can be used for treating the infected skin. It can be directly applied over the skin to reduce skin itching. It can cause irritation to skin, so it must be tested before using. The peppermint oil can also be used by diluting it with other vegetable oils like olive oil.
Black Walnut
The herb is beneficial for treating skin infections. It can be used in the form of tincture for treating poison ivy. Apply the tincture over the infected area for effective use. Extract prepared from black walnut can be used for the treatment of poison ivy. It has antiseptic properties and helps in reducing skin inflammation. It heals the wound and reduces swelling. Poultice made from leaves of black walnut can be very useful for curing poison ivy.
Burdock
Juice prepared from the herb can be applied over the skin for treating poison ivy.
Caution: Please use Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.
