How To Treat Poison Ivy - Cures for poison ivy

What do you do if you have a close encounter with some poison ivy? Dermatologist and author Dr Doris Day has remedies to treat a poison ivy rash, and help minimize the scratching, scarring and possible infection.

How To Treat Poison Ivy - Cures for poison ivy


A poison ivy rash only occurs if youre allergic to it. But you can develop the allergy at any time. It could take two or three weeks for poison ivy to completely clear up. Consider these poison ivy remedies to keep from scratching, scarring, and infection.

The Best Poison Ivy Treatment - Avoidance:
* The best prevention is to avoid the plant. It has an easy-to-identify 3-leaf pattern. If its on your property, have an exterminator come destroy it.

* Wear clothing that covers the area completely including sleeves and gloves. Wash the clothing right away. The resin from the plant can stay on the fabric for months.


If You Have Just Come In Contact with Poison Ivy:
* Once youve been exposed to the plant, get inside within 10 minutes. There are soaps and wipes designed to remove the resin before it has the chance to cause a reaction. Wash any exposed clothing immediately. Pets should be cleaned off ASAP, too.

If You Have a Poison Ivy Rash:

If you prefer poison ivy home remedies:
* Take a soothing bath with household ingredients. Take a cup of oatmeal, some whole milk, honey, and aloe and mix it into a paste. Pour it into a lukewarm bath. Soak for 15 or 20 minutes, a couple of times a day.

Try a commercial poison ivy treatment:
* Apply a 1% hydrocortisone ointment to problem areas. If that doesnt provide relief, see your doctor for a prescription strength ointment.

* Calamine lotion helps dry out moist bumps or blisters. Dont overuse it, and dont apply it to dry areas.

* Take an antihistamine like Benadryl. It may make you drowsy. You can take a non-sedating Claritin or Zyrtec during the day, and a Benadryl at night.

* Refrigerate and use an anti-itch spray for instant relief.

* If none of these methods work, see your dermatologist.

* Young children and infants should see a doctor right away. Young adults and adults can be initially treated at home.


Any poison ivy treatments or remedies you choose need to be applied repeatedly. Since a poison ivy rash can take 2-3 weeks to heal it's important to not scratch the area. Scratching the rash increases your chance of scarring and infection.

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