Vitamin C For Poison Ivy

Vitamin C For Poison Ivy

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Poison Ivy

Poison Ivy

By: Naturopathic Doctor ( N.D.)

Poison Ivy, Poison oak and Sumac...

What is it?
Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac are a family of plant found all over North America, most commonly in wooded areas. These plants all produce urushiol, a sap or resin that causes an allergic reaction or contact dermatitis when it comes in contact with skin. This results in severe itching and an often painful rash. Some individuals are more sensitive than others.
15-30 % of the population will have no reaction, while a small percentage of the population can have an anaphylactic episode, following exposure. With repeated exposure, the reaction is often more severe. The typical rash will develop within a few hours to one week following exposure and the rash can last anywhere from one to four weeks. There is no way to distinguish a poison ivy rash from that of poison oak or poison sumac.

Whatever you do, don't scratch!
Poison ivy, oak and sumac are not contagious, but can spread very easily if the resin is not removed from the skin. Be sure to thoroughly wash all exposed areas and clothing as soon as possible to prevent spreading to other parts of the body.

Animals can also spread poison ivy, although they do not often have symptoms themselves. If you suspect your pet may have poison ivy, give them a thorough washing (wear gloves) so they do not pass it on to you.

Know what to look for!
The best prevention is simply to avoid contact, which means you need to know what to look for. These plants are usually found along the edge of wooded areas. Poison ivy and oak are recognized by their characteristic cluster of 3 leaflets. They are red or reddish-orange in the spring and fall and bright green or yellow green in the summer. Each group of three leaflets grows on its own stem, which then connects to the main vine. Poison Sumac is known to have five, seven or more leaflets. Although they are sometimes noted to be hairy (stem and leaflets), none of these plants have thorns thorns.

Other Prevention
In terms of prevention, there is a small amount of research suggesting that quercetin and high dose vitamin C (3000-8000mg/day in divided doses. 1000 mg at a time) during the spring months, when poison ivy is at its most irritating (when it is full of sap) can help to prevent a reaction, or minimize a reaction in those who are most sensitive.. vitamin C is a natural anti-histamine and helps to reduce swelling, so it is also useful in these doses as a treatment. Bentoquatam (Ivy block) is a bentonate-based topical medication intended to act as a shield against exposure to urushiol, the oil found in plants such as poison ivy or poison oak. Contact your pharmacist to see if this product is available in your area.

Oops. Too late! Natural Treatment Options
Black Walnut can be taken both internally and applied externally, directly on the rash or blisters. It is best used as an acute treatment or for lingering infections. It helps to fight infection and minimize spreading. Goldenseal is another option (taken internally and/or applied topically), which is especially useful if there is a lot of swelling/inflammation. Aloe Vera and Witch hazel are also good topically for relieving the itch and healing the skin once the infection is on its way out. Rhus Toxidendron is the stand-by homeopathic for the treatment poison ivy. It has been shown to relieve itching and promotes faster healing.

Calamine
Calamine lotion, a combination of zinc oxide and iron oxide, is widely used as an anti-pyretic (anti-itch) remedy for the treatment of poison ivy, chicken pox, stings, and more. Unfortunately, there is little to no research supporting its safety or effectiveness for these uses.

Nutritional Information

poison ivy - quick facts
black walnut	take as directed. apply topically as needed used to treat infection and skin wounds. high in tannins, to diminish pain and swelling.
goldenseal	oral: 500-1000 mg/day. apply topically as needed antimicrobial and anti inflammatory. astringent and antiseptic.
quercetin with vitamin c	quercetin 300-1500 mg/day with 1000-5000 vitamin c daily in divided doses. natural anti-histamines, balancing immune reaction.
aloe vera	apply topically as needed. protects tissue from infection, possesses anti-inflammatory properties, soothes and helps to heal skin.
rhus toxidendron	200ch or 30 ch, consult homeopathic doctor for individual dose recommendations. traditional homeopathic for the treatment of poison ivy/oak/sumac.

What you can do to help maintain Poison Ivy :

Poison ivy, oak and sumac are not contagious, but can spread very easily if the resin is not removed from the skin.

Nutritional Information

poison ivy - quick facts
black walnut	take as directed. apply topically as needed used to treat infection and skin wounds. high in tannins, to diminish pain and swelling.
goldenseal	oral: 500-1000 mg/day. apply topically as needed antimicrobial and anti inflammatory. astringent and antiseptic.
quercetin with vitamin c	quercetin 300-1500 mg/day with 1000-5000 vitamin c daily in divided doses. natural anti-histamines, balancing immune reaction.
aloe vera	apply topically as needed. protects tissue from infection, possesses anti-inflammatory properties, soothes and helps to heal skin.
rhus toxidendron	200ch or 30 ch, consult homeopathic doctor for individual dose recommendations. traditional homeopathic for the treatment of poison ivy/oak/sumac.

Vitamin C For Poison Ivy

Source: https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/health-concerns/poison-ivy/