Poison oak leaves contain urushiol oil. When the oil has contact with skin, a reaction occurs. Signs and symptoms include severe itching, discomfort, swelling and a red or pink rash. According to the Mayo Clinic, the rash can appear 12 to 48 hours after exposure and may last up to three weeks. A minute amount of oil is needed to cause a skin reaction. A variety of natural remedies can be followed to treat poison oak.
Clean Fingernails
Clean well under your fingernails. Oils from the poison oak plant may be trapped under the nails. When scratching affected areas, bacteria from underneath the fingernails can cause additional infections.
Wet Compresses
Apply wet compresses to aid in relief every 15 to 20 minutes. Use a cool wet washcloth or paper towel soaked in cool water. Apply aloe vera to skin to aid in cooling and healing.
Peppermint Mud Mask
Mix 1 tsp. of salt with 1/8 tsp. of peppermint oil. Stir well, and add 1 cup of green clay. Add a small amount of water and stir ingredients until a paste forms. Apply the paste to areas affected by poison oak. Allow the paste to dry. The paste will suck up any oils from the poison oak plant that remain on the skin. Use treatment one to two times daily, or as needed. Store the leftover ingredients in your refrigerator.
Baking Soda & Coffee
Mix together baking soda and liquid coffee to form a paste. Mix well and apply to your skin. Let the paste dry and reapply as necessary.
Potato Pulp
Grind a peeled potato into a fine pulp in a blender. Place the pulp on your skin and wrap with plastic wrap. Leave on overnight to relieve skin of itching and irritation. Wash off in the morning and repeat, if desired.
Bath Soaks
Soak in the bathtub. Put 1 cup Epsom salt in your bath for relaxation and relief. An alternative treatment to add to your bath water is 1 cup of oatmeal. Oatmeal can also be applied, when wet, directly to the skin as a paste for relief.
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