Poison ivy is a condition in which a rash occurs due to the chemical called urshiol in the sap of the plant or leaves and root of the poison ivy plant. An allergic condition that is observed, is generally result of the chemical penetrating into the skin and directly acting on the dermis of the skin. Poison ivy may not caused to everyone who gets in contact with the plant. One who has very sensitive skin get affected very easily.
Though it is not a serious health condition, if not treated properly may lead to serious complications which may then lead to complex and painful procedures to be followed. There are many natural remedies available that can be followed and help in getting rid of poison ivy naturally. However, caution has to be followed while considering few natural remedies as some of them may have side effects depending on the body type.
Ways To Cure Poison Ivy
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is well known for its great healing properties. Especially, works very effectively for all skin problems. Aloe vera can be used to soothe irritation and reduce the rash and allergy caused by poison ivy. Aloe vera can applied generously onto the skin to reduce the rashes. Aloe vera is one of the best ways to get rid of itching and sores. Take an aloe vera leaf, wash it and squeeze the gel and apply it on the skin. It has anti-inflammatory properties and reduces the inflammation.
Plantain
Medicinally plantain leaves are used to relieve pain and itching sensation caused by insect bites. Plantain leaves are a great healing herb to treat poison ivy as it easily helps relief pain and itching. Rashes are also reduced. It is one of the best herbs used to treat poison ivy.
Take some plantain leaves and crush them. Apply this juice on to the rashes caused by poison ivy. It effectively reduces the allergic reaction. It is an excellent remedy as it can reduce rashes at any stage, either initial or severe.
Vinegar
The allergic reaction to poison ivy is caused by reaction towards urushiol allergen found in poison ivy. Vinegar is a good remedy to treat the rashes. Make a vinegar solution by mixing one table spoon of white vinegar in cool water. Take a cloth and dip it in this solution. Rub the cloth gently and slowly over the rashes.
Apply it for ten to fifteen minutes four times a day. This process removes the fluid from the rashes. Cautions should be exercised while using vinegar as it is not suitable to use on all skin types.
Cold Milk
Cold milk is used for treatment and prevention of poison ivy. Cold milk can be used in the form of a compress and applied to the rashes. Cold milk is very soft on skin. It soothes and relieves the itching. It also dries up the weeping blisters caused by poison ivy. Soak a clean towel in cold milk and gently rub over the affected areas. Skimmed milk should not be used for this purpose.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a wonderful herb and works best and is an excellent remedy for blisters. The leaves and bark of this herb is used for treatment. It has astringent properties that decreases itching and swelling. The oil of witch hazel is extracted from the leaves and bark of witch hazel and topically applied to get relief. Witch hazel contains gallic acid and flavanols which give witch hazel its important properties.
Potato
Potato is one of the naturally available remedies to treat poison ivy. Take a fresh potato and peel it off. Apply the potato peels on to the affected area and leave it for sometime. Alternatively, potato poultice can be prepared by making a potato paste in blender. Place this in a plastic wrap. Apply this wrap on the affected area and leave it for two hours and rinse off well.
Green Tea
Green tea is the best and safest solution to treat various medical conditions. It has great healing properties as it directly acts on purifying the blood. Not only this, it also improves blood circulation in the body and boosting the immune system. Poison ivy can also be treated by using green tea effectively by direct intake of green tea.
The main content of green tea is flavonoids that are responsible for proper blood flow through the body. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial properties that fights the allergy associated with this health condition. Green tea can be taken for two to three times a day regularly. It is also proven to have almost no side effects.
Burdock
Burdock is a very beneficial herb which has medicinal properties. The root of this plant is used for treatment. The burdock root can be made into a thick paste and its hot compress can be placed over the affected area to get relief from the symptoms. Alternatively, soak a clean towel in the warm herbal concoction that is prepared by boiling the root in water.
Topical application of this herbal compress relieves itching immediately. For the purpose of herbal compress burdock root can be combined with other herbs like plantain and comfrey.
Turmeric
Turmeric is one of the most commonly used ingredient that is used for treating various kinds of health conditions. It is very easily available and considered to be the effective solution with no side effects. Poison ivy can also be treated using turmeric, thus visibly reducing the symptoms and helping to get rid of the health condition.
Turmeric can be directly applied over the affected area and leave it for sometime. It is considered to have anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which helps in soothing the pain associated with poison ivy. Instead of topical application, turmeric can also be taken directly by mixing it in milk.
Lime Juice
It is the simplest natural solution to alleviate the symptoms of many diseases, especially skin diseases. Lime juice has vitamin C, which is very essential for a healthy skin. A proper amount of lime juice may be taken regularly in order to reduce the symptoms of poison ivy. Topical application of lime juice is not preferable as it may cause irritation.