Poison ivy is a plant that grows as small shrubs or vines. The leaves of this plant are said to be very poisonous and can cause deep rashes to erupt on the skin if you so much as even brush past them. So if you have just found out that you are affected by poison ivy, take a look at the symptoms you need to be wary off as well as some natural remedies that may help you take care of the condition until you get medical help.
Symptoms of Poison Ivy Rash
Some of the more telltale symptoms of poison ivy include redness, swelling and itching in the affected area. In certain cases, you may expect to see some blisters appearing in and around the affected area. The rash itself will take a long time to develop and may look like it is spreading in the process.
Frightening Fact: Global warming may increase poison ivy rash
Poison ivy rash can be a very painful problem to deal with. The frightening thing here is that the poison ivy plants are all set to become itchier and more poisonous with global warming. This can be attributed to growing levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere which will help the vines grow faster as well as bigger.
Home Remedies for Poison Ivy Rash
Before heading over to the doctor to treat the condition, consider opting for these home remedies for poison ivy rash. Consult a doctor if the symptoms worsen as well as spread to the face or genital regions.
- Cucumber
Cucumber contains cooling properties that will help soothe the rash, thus reducing itchiness and inflammation in the region. It will also help boost the skin’s health and promote quick healing from the rash. Simply slice a cucumber and place the slices on the rash for about 15-20 minutes at regular intervals throughout the day. This will help you get rid of the poison ivy rash quickly and effectively.
- Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains antioxidant properties which help to draw out the toxins from the poison ivy rash. This will, in turn, help the skin heal faster from the rash. The antibacterial properties of apple cider vinegar will also prevent infections in the affected area. Dab a piece of cotton in apple cider vinegar and place it on the rash. Do this for 10 minutes at regular intervals to get rid of the itchiness and inflammation caused by the rash.
- Banana Peel
Banana peels are very effective in treating poison ivy rash. It is very simple to use as well. Peel a banana and place the inside of the peel directly on the rash. Wait for about 15 minutes and rinse the area with cold water. Do this thrice every day to get rid of poison ivy rash quickly.
- Baking Soda
Baking soda contains anti-inflammatory properties. This will help bring down the itchiness, irritation and swelling caused by poison ivy rash. All you need to do is make a paste of baking soda powder and water. Apply this paste on the rash and wait for it to dry completely. This is a great remedy in case you have oozing blisters on the skin. Baking soda will help remove the toxins from the poison ivy and help your skin heal faster in the process.
Prevention Tips
In addition to these home remedies, here are some prevention tips that can come in handy when tackling the condition and its symptoms.
- Wash, wash, wash
Make sure you wash the skin immediately after coming in contact with a poison ivy plant. This helps to wash off the oil that may have collected on your skin’s surface. Make sure you wash the clothes you were wearing when you touched the plant as well. This will help control the symptoms to a great extent.
- Oatmeal Bath
Take a bath in warm water filled with oatmeal powder. This will help control the itching and remove the oil from deep within the skin’ pores. It will also help relieve the itching and irritation considerably.
- Ivy Block Cream
Make sure to wear ivy block cream when you venture out. This will help prevent recurrences as well as prevent the infection from spreading when exposed to heat.
Poison ivy rash is characterized by the appearance of a reddish rash over the skin that can become very itchy and painful to handle. Some home remedies can help deal with the problem with relative ease.