Poison ivy, sumac and oak are all plantings that release a toxin known as urusiol oil. Many people experience an allergic reaction that includes itchy rashes and blisters they've had contact with the oil of one of these three plants. While certainly irritating, poison ivy et al. rashes are generally not considered serious. While prevention remains the only permanent cure because it involves avoiding urisiol oil altogether, suffers can also use self-help care methods to minimize contact with the toxin and to manage symptoms for the duration of the rash, which usually disappears on its own within one to three weeks.
Symptom Management
According to the University of Maryland Medical System website, over-the-counter anti-itching creams such as calamine lotion prove effective for treating the itch that accompanies poison ivy, oak and sumac. Corticosteroid creams like hydrocortisone and those containing menthol like Sarna prove especially helpful during the first few days when itching becomes particularly fierce. You can also minimize Itching with cool, wet compresses applied for 15 to 30 minutes several times daily, along with cool showers or cool water baths containing oatmeal or baking soda.
Barrrier Creams
An over-the-counter barrier skin cream containing bentoquatam applied before going outdoors can help protect the skin and minimize the chances of developing a poison ivy rash. According to the Mayo Clinic website, the ingredient bentoquatam absorbs urisiol and prevents or lessens skin reaction to the oil.
Controlling the Culprit
There are several ways to remove as much urisiol as possible. While this will not ensure the eradication of all poison ivy reactions, it may help reduce their severity according to the Mayo Clinic website. Wash all clothing promptly with detergent in a washing machine to help remove any urisiol, and handle contaminated clothes carefully to avoid urisiol transfer to furniture or rugs. Consider also washing outdoor gear including shoes, tools and even jewelry that may have become contaminated as soon as possible. Dry cleaning is another method that the Mayo Clinic points out can help eliminate urisiol. Washing the skin and fingernails with mild soap and water within ten minutes of exposure may also help avert a reaction.
