When the skin is in contact with poison ivy, the body responds with an allergic reaction called contact dermatitis. The red and itchy rash is the most common allergic reaction, even though in some cases, the skin might get covered with blisters or hives. When the body responds mildly to poison ivy, the rash and occasional blisters can be successfully treated at home. There are a number of home remedies that will provide you with the desired relief safely and quickly.
The simplest home remedy for poison ivy is table salt. It has an antimicrobial and antibacterial effect. It can relieve the inflammation to an extent as well. It will certainly stop the pain and itching. In many cases salt is effective for preventing the spreading of the poison ivy rash. You can fill your bathtub with cool water and add salt until the solution is mildly salty. Then you can soak in it until you feel relief. The simpler method is to dip your wet fingers in some salt and apply it directly on the affected area.
Vinegar can also help you get relief from poison ivy. It has an excellent anti-inflammatory effect and will soothe the itching almost instantly. Use a cotton ball to apply vinegar directly on the affected skin area. You will feel the beneficial effect almost immediately. Apply vinegar as many times as necessary.
Rhubarb is another effective home remedy for poison ivy. You simply need to take some leaves and crush them using the simple mortar and pestle you have at home. Then apply to the affected skin are for as long as necessary. You should feel relief from itching. The inflammation will be soothed and reduced.
Applying aloe vera juice to the affected skin area will provide you with instant relief. This plant is known for its healing properties. Aloe vera contains many beneficial vitamins, such as Vitamin E. These offer essential nurturing and protection. The juice can also relieve inflammation and itching effectively.
Using some goldenseal root extract dissolved in water can also help you get rid of poison ivy rash naturally. It reduces swelling and redness effectively. It contains various vitamins that boost the functioning of the immune system and facilitate healing.
In general, washing the affected skin area with soap frequently will remove some of the poison ivy oil absorbed in your skin. You should use a mild soap without scrubbing grains for effective relief. This is perhaps the simplest home remedy for poison ivy.