Best Way To Get Rid Of Poison Ivy
The phrase “leaves of three let it be” serves as a warning against the poison ivy plant. This plant contains compound leaves with three leaflets, and it is found in every state of the US except Hawaii and Alaska. The leaves of the plant contain an oily sap called urushiol. This sap triggers an allergic reaction when your skin comes in contact with it.
Poison ivy rash appears like red blisters on the skin. Sometimes the allergic reaction can also appear as black spots or streaks on the skin.
In most cases, this rash can be treated at home, but getting medical help is the best way to get rid of poison ivy rash. Here are some more tips you should consider to manage a poison ivy rash.
Don’t scratch
Refrain from scratching poison ivy rash since this might intensify it. Scratching can also cause the blisters to burst, which can cause other areas of the skin and body to become infected.
The best way to get rid of poison ivy at home involves the aloe vera plant since aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps soothe the skin. Cut open an aloe vera leaf and extract the gel from it. Rub it on the area that itches to reduce the need to scratch it.
You can also put slices of cucumber on the rash or mash it to make a fine paste and apply it on the affected area to soothe the skin.
Try some rubbing alcohol
This is the best way to get rid of poison ivy since it helps remove urushiol oil from the skin. If you are thinking of traveling to places where poison ivy plants are abundant, pack rubbing alcohol in your bag. You can use it to prevent getting a rash and ruining your trip.
Use creams and lotions
Applying anti-itching lotions such as calamine lotion is the best way to get rid of poison ivy. Anti-allergic lotions minimize the symptoms of the rash and decrease the need to scratch the itchy surface. Applying FDA-approved OTC lotions and creams that contain zinc acetate, zinc carbonate, or zinc oxide can reduce the oozing caused by poison ivy.
But always read the instructions mentioned on the bottle before applying these types of creams and lotions.
Thoroughly wash Items
Urushiol can stick to items such as gloves, clothes, gardening tools, boots, etc., and remain active for several months. You can develop a rash if your skin touches any item with residual urushiol stuck on its surface. Therefore, the best way to get rid of poison ivy residual urushiol is to wash all the items that came in contact with the plant.
Always remember to wear disposable gloves while removing or washing the items that have come in contact with the plant. This way, you can ensure the oil does not transfer to your skin or any other object.
The oil can also get stuck on your pet’s fur so thoroughly wash it if they have ventured into an area with poison ivy plants.
Shower and cool compress
Washing the affected areas within 10 minutes of exposure can greatly reduce the chances of any allergic reaction. Therefore, the best way to get rid of poison ivy is to shower as soon as you come into contact with the plant.
Thoroughly wash your skin and the skin under your fingernails with soap and lukewarm water to remove plant oils. If the oil is not washed off, it can spread to other body parts. Avoid using hot water since that can aggravate the irritation.
You can also try using a cool compress on the affected area for about 30 minutes multiple times a day. This helps relieve itchiness.
Oral antihistamines
OTC oral antihistamines such as Benadryl are the best way to get rid of poison ivy symptoms. They can help with itching and inflammation. But always consult your doctor before taking any medication. Do not apply topical antihistamine cream to your rash, as it will worsen the itching.
FAQs
How long do the blisters formed by poison ivy last?
The allergic reaction to poison ivy generally develops between 12 to 48 hours after the person is exposed to it, and it lasts two to three weeks.
When to seek medical assistance for a poison ivy rash?
Go to the hospital under the following conditions:
. trouble breathing or swallowing.
. a fever higher than 100F
. severe itching
. rash all over your body
. swelling on your face or your eyes
What should I do if the blisters formed due to poison ivy start oozing?
Applying OTC skin protectants such as zinc acetate or calamine can dry the oozing of poison ivy blisters. But if that isn’t working, consult your doctor; that’s the best way to get rid of poison ivy rash.
Conclusion
Poison ivy is a plant that is abundantly found in both rural and urban areas. You need to know what the plant looks like to avoid exposing yourself to it. However, if you get exposed to it, wash the affected area with warm water and soap or apply rubbing alcohol. Poison ivy rash can easily be managed at home, and the above article discusses the best way to get rid of poison ivy.