Poison ivy is a case of rash which appears on the skin when it comes in contact with a chemical called urushiol that is found in the sap of certain plants. Urushiol is the most dangerous natural poison on the earth. This chemical infiltrates the outer layer of the skin and gets to the dermis causing an allergic reaction. All people do not get affected by urushiol, only those who are allergic to it get poison ivy. The slightest contact can trigger poison ivy which causes intense itching, large blisters, soreness, fever, inflammation, and severe burning sensation.
The symptoms are manifested within an hour of contact but sometimes they may take seven to ten days to show themselves. The oak, sumac and poison ivy plants are mainly responsible for this ailment. Natural cures are the best for alleviating the symptoms and achieving a cure.
Tips To Cure Poison Ivy Naturally
Watermelon Rind
Watermelon rind is high in water content and has a cooling and soothing effect on the skin. Rub the inside of the rind several times a day to reduce itching. The juice of the rind permeates the skin and neutralizes the toxicity of the sap. The burning disappears and leaves the skin cool and free from itching.
Cucumber
Cucumber has detoxifying, cooling and astringent properties. It soothes the inflamed skin and alleviates itching. Its antioxidant properties relieve soreness and inflammation.
Make a cucumber paste and smear it on the skin. Several applications during the day will cure the rash and ease the pain. You can also place the slices of cucumber on the rash. Let the slices remain on the skin and let them dry on it. You will experience immense relief in the burning sensation.
Banana Peel
Banana peels which are discarded in the trash bin without a second thought have several medicinal benefits. Like the fruit, the peel also contains vitamins A, C and potassium which are very effective in soothing and calming an irritant skin. Rub the inside of the skin on the rashes frequently, to minimize the itching. The cooling effect of the skin will soon make the blisters disappear.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal has ant-inflammatory and healing properties. It negates the harsh effects of the sap and heals the blisters. Cook some oatmeal with water till it becomes very thick. Let it cool sufficiently.
Apply the thick paste on the rashes when it is still very warm and let it dry on the skin. The paste absorbs all the elements and impurities which give rise to the maddening itching, from the skin and leaves it cool and dry.
Baking Soda
Baking soda a common household ingredient is found in every kitchen. It is extensively used in several natural remedies. Its anti-inflammatory and neutralizing properties are particularly useful in treating various skin disorders and diseases. Its alkaline nature heals and soothes the skin.
Put half a cup of baking soda in a tubful of warm water. Soak yourself for half an hour. You can also make a paste by using four teaspoons of baking soda with enough water to form a thick paste and smear it all over the infected areas to get rid of the itching.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.