Poison ivy is a common allergenic plant found in North America. The Kids Health website states that poison ivy -- as well as poison oak and poison sumac -- contains a substance called urushiol. Urushiol is a colorless, odorless oil, or resin, that is stored in the leaves of the poison ivy plant. When the resin touches your skin, it becomes inflamed, red and very itchy. Herbal treatments can help reduce poison ivy-related discomfort, although you should always talk with your doctor about risks and side effects before using herbs to treat your health complaints.
Poison Ivy
According to Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," over 50 percent of the American population is allergic to poison ivy, poison oak or poison sumac. Poison ivy is more common to the regions east of the Rocky Mountains. The first symptom of poison ivy is a burning or itching sensation, which is usually followed by a red and itchy rash. If you have poison ivy, you may develop swelling, oozing and crusting blisters, states Balch.
Herbal Treatments
Herbal treatments for poison ivy can be used in several different ways, although most herbs for poison ivy are applied topically, or to your skin. Commonly used herbal treatments for poison ivy include aloe vera gel, white oak bark, marshmallow root, tea tree oil and witch hazel. Other helpful herbal treatments include echinacea for immune system support, bloodroot for swelling reduction and black walnut to help fight infection. Goldenseal and myrrh may also be used topically to help treat this condition.
A Commonly Used Herb
Witch hazel is a commonly used herb in treating poison ivy. According to herbalist and naturopathic doctor Sharol Tilgner, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," witch hazel helps stop passive bleeding, possesses anti-inflammatory action and encourages your skin lesions to heal. Balch states that witch hazel helps tone and tighten your tissues and has healing properties when applied topically. Witch hazel is also commonly used to treat hemorrhoids. Witch hazel is a plant that grows in North America, Japan and China.
Additional Information
Severe cases of poison ivy often require medical intervention. Certain symptoms are indications that medical help may be needed in treating your poison ivy, including an extensive rash that covers over 50 percent of your body, extreme redness and swelling and persistent fever. Poison ivy-related rashes that develop near your eyes, mouth and genitals are a cause for concern. Although the toxin contained in poison ivy does not affect dogs and cats, your pets may pass this substance to you via their fur.
References
- Kids Health: Poison Ivy
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
