Urushiol is the yellow oily toxin produced by poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac. Approximately 90% of the population reacts to the substance with an allergic rash. This rash causes extreme itching in humans. There are a variety of remedies to help treat the rash and itching that comes from exposure to Urushiol.
Natural Remedies
Oatmeal Paste- Cook oatmeal until it is thicker than would be palatable for eating. Allow it to cool until it is warm to the touch. Spread the oatmeal on the rash and allow it to dry.
Baking Soda Paste- Mix baking soda with water. Spread it on the rash. Allow to dry.
Banana Skins- Rub the inside of a banana skin on the rash to relieve itching.
Salt Baths- Take a bath in water with a few cups of sea salt to help soothe itching.
Sumactin- Sumactin, a remedy with a variety of essential oils helps to treat the urushiol rash.
Zanfel- Zanfel removes usushiol from the skin even after it has bonded.
Preventative Remedies
The best way to fight urushiol is to protect yourself ahead of time. When hiking be sure to wear socks, pants, and close toed shoes. Don’t handle plants you are unfamiliar with. Use a product such as Ivy Block when the possibility of coming in contact with urushiol containing plants is high.
Urushiol Emergencies
Approximately 10% of people who come in contact with poison oak, poison sumac, or poison ivy will have a toxic reaction. This will cause their face, eyes, and throat to swell. It is one of the few true dermatological emergencies and requires immediate medical attention.