Poison Oak Remedies

It is spring and it means that poison oak and poison ivy are coming up to the woods near you.  Common medical treatment for the rash include steroids, but fortunately you still have several options. There are quite a few of traditional natural remedies, which bring relief and healing almost as fast as steroids. They are:

1. Lavender and tea tree oils. Just apply to the affected area and they should reduce the itch immediately. Use 50/50 mixture for best results.

2. Oatmeal bath. As it turns out it is not just for babies. Colloidal (very finely ground) oatmeal added to hot bath can do wonders for the rash. You can make colloidal oatmeal yourself (in a blender) or buy it at a pharmacy (e.g.Aveeno). Use a few cups per bathtub and add some baking soda or Epsom salts for added effectiveness.

3. Aloe Vera gel. This gel can come directly from a fresh plant or from a pharmacy. It helps to cool down and heal affected areas.

4. Homeopathic remedies. Rhus Thox is a remedy derived from poison ivy, but requires prolonged use in order to build up your natural immunity. Grindelia Robusta is another plant-derived remedy that can really help. Although homeopathic remedies cannot harm you in any way (they are highly diluted), it is wise to seek advice of a trained homeopath in order to increase effectiveness of any treatment.

To brush up on the poisonus plants see Poisonus Plants to Look out for on your Next Camping Trip.