Poison ivy grows in most parts of the United States, except the Northwest. Contact with the toxin urushiol in the leaves and stem of the plant often causes a rash and blistering. The rash can appear instantly or take 24 hours to fully develop. Home remedies can reduce the itching and blistering. The rash usually resolves by itself within one to two weeks.
Washing
The oils first contact the skin and then penetrate into the skin after 10 to 15 minutes, so quickly washing with soap is the best way to prevent a poison ivy rash from developing and spreading. The oils remain active for months if they touch clothing, so also wash any clothes immediately, advises the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Honey
Honey is an antiseptic, antifungal and antiviral and has been found in Egyptian tombs in an unspoiled condition. Honey soothes skin conditions and has been shown to heal skin wounds, blisters and burns. Honey can be applied directly or added to warm water as a rinse, soak or bath. A spoon of honey mixed into a glass of warm water can be applied to poison ivy with a cotton ball or washcloth to relieve blistering skin.
Baking Soda
Baking soda eases itching in mild cases of poison ivy rash. It can be mixed into a paste and applied to the rash or added to a bath. About 1/2 cup per bath helps soothe irritated skin.
Oats
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends oatmeal baths for poison iv, dissolved in the tub with warm water. Hot water can aggravate the rash. Oatmeal is soothing to skin and reduces itching. Oatmeal can also be added to a baking soda bath. Wrap the oats in cheesecloth or a cotton bag so they don't clog the drain. Commercial oatmeal bath products are also available.
