Poison Oak, Ivy, Sumac Treatments
About
The oil of poison ivy, oak and sumac leaves causes an allergic reaction in most people
When they are damaged, poison oak, ivy and sumac release a toxic oil, called urushiol, which causes an allergic reaction in about 80-85% of people who come into contact with this oil. What begins as a sting and minor irritation, becomes a red rash that gets progressively itchier, especially in the area of contact with the plant. Eventually bumps form that ooze a liquid. However, contrary to popular thinking, the ooze is not contagious or spread by scratching, since the “ooze” is not the offending urushiol oil.
The poison ivy / oak / sumac rash or ooze is NOT contagious, only their oil
The blisters begin to dry up and crust after a few days and the rash peaks about a weak after exposure – usually lasting 5-12 days.
Treatments
Wash the area of contact within 6 hours of contact with soap and water. This should remove much of the offending oil and lessen the reaction
Prevent further contact with oil. Wash clothing and anything else that came into contact with the plant oil. E.g. gardening tools, shoes, pets.
Topical Anti-infectives (scratching can cause infection):
- Hydrogen Peroxide (footbath);
- Ozone Therapy (Ozonated Olive Oil, limb-bagging);
- Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy SOTA Magnetic Pulser);
- Wild Oregano Oil;
- Grapefruit Seed Extract – Mix 2 tsp. GSE to 5oz (10 Tbsp.) water in a spray bottle and apply to a small area of the skin. If a burning sensation results, add a little water. Spray liberally over affected areas; repeat every 2 hours as needed. Shake mixture between sprayings.
Anti-itch:
- Cool compresses
- Calamine lotion
- Hydrocortisone cream
