Poison sumac, along with related plants such as poison ivy and poison oak, contains a skin-aggravating oil known as urushiol. Found on the plants' leaves, stems and even roots, when urushiol touches the skin, allergic contact dermatitis occurs. Symptoms include itching, redness, rash and irritation. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the rash generally appears three to five hours later but may not appear until several days later. Items found in most kitchens or grocery stores can provide temporary relief of the symptoms, but there is no cure for the allergic reaction.
Cleansing
A person who has encountered urushiol should immediately remove all clothing and wash the skin with warm soap and water. Continuous rinsing of the skin for several minutes is encouraged. Scrubbing under the fingernails is encouraged to remove as much of the urushiol as possible. If contact with poison sumac occurs while camping, a person may use a nearby stream or water source to wash the skin. Garden tools, camping gear and even pets may carry urushiol and should be thoroughly washed to remove any residue.
Compresses and Showers
Cold compresses made from paper towels or washcloths can temporarily relieve itchy skin associated with poison sumac. The compress can be soaked in ice water or simply cold running water. A person should apply the compresses to the skin as often as needed for about 15 to 30 minutes per session, the MayoClinic.com recommends. Cold showers or baths are also beneficial for relief.
Baths
Uncooked oatmeal or baking soda may be added to a bathtub filled with cool water for itch relief. Colloidal oatmeal, such as Aveeno, may also be used, according to the MayoClinic.com. If a person is unable to take a bath, pastes made from the oatmeal or baking soda and applied to the skin can help to dry oozing blisters associated with the poison sumac allergic reaction. A paste can be formed by mixing baking soda or oatmeal with a small amount of water. As the paste dries, so do the seeping blisters.
Over-the-Counter Products
A variety of over-the-counter medications are available to fight the symptoms of the allergic reaction. Calamine lotion as well as Milk of Magnesia can help to relieve poison sumac itch, reports MotherNature.com. Hydrocortisone creams and ointments also reduce itching. These medications should not be applied to broken skin or open blisters. An oral antihistamine, such as medications containing diphenhydramine, can relieve symptoms associated with the allergic reaction, but may cause drowsiness.
Emergency Care
Though home remedies often are all that is needed to relieve poison sumac allergic reactions, occasionally prompt medical attention is necessary. A person should seek medical attention if the urushiol is on a person's genitals or face, or if they have inhaled urushiol-infused smoke, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Swelling, respiratory distress or a history of severe allergic reactions to poisonous plants requires calling emergency personnel or visiting the nearest emergency room.
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