Poison Ivy Treatment. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or have been stranded in the wilderness, there are certain plants to watch out for, including poison ivy. If you do find yourself scratching and itching after exposure to the plant, or realize you’ve been exposed upon contact, there are several steps you can take to minimize the spreading of the rash as well as the pain. And let’s look at some poison ivy treatment.
Remove Clothing
The first thing you should do upon exposure is to remove all clothing, as there’s
Rinse Off
In addition to washing your clothing, it’s a good idea to head for water yourself. Access to showers is always a good thing, if not, go for a fresh spring if possible. As long as you don’t have any open cuts or other wounds you can rinse your legs, stomach, neck, arms, and back in river water.
Rubbing Alcohol
Use rubbing alcohol from an emergency preparedness kit to wipe off skin if possible. The oil from poison ivy absorbs into the skin rather slowly, so the quicker you can swipe skin with rubbing alcohol, the less chance there is of absorption.
Vinegar and Baking Soda
If you have either of these available, you can use them to treat and combat poison ivy. Make a paste with baking soda and water and apply it to affected areas, or apply vinegar to skin where needed. Both are excellent for dealing with itchy skin.
Soap and Water
Cleanse affected areas as soon as possible with soap and water if you have the access. Rinse skin thoroughly before using soap to minimize the spreading and absorbing of the oil.
Coffee
Have any leftover coffee? Use it to treat poison ivy. Coffee beans contain an acid that reduces inflammation.
Aloe Vera
Alove Vera is renowned for its healing abilities, so use it to treat itchy, burning skin. Use pure gel or break off part of the plant and squeeze the liquid out.
It’s also a good idea to study what poisonous plants look like before heading out on a wilderness adventure! Stay safe!
Source: survivalbased.com