Treatment Techniques And Products

If you get it here is how you get rid of it.

Treatments

There are many treatments for those who have been infected with Poison Oak. The most immediate treatment is to gently cleanse ones skin with soap and water as soon as possible and to remove any adverse substance. Wash arms, legs, face, and even fingernails. It is important to compress and dry up open sores by using “Burow's solution” or “astringent solution (Bayer Consumer Care Division, Morris Township , New Jersey ).” It takes fifteen minutes to apply and should be repeated two to four times a day ( http://www.physsportsmed.com/issues/1999/05_99/garner.htm ).

As well as applying treatments, drug therapy is available. The most extreme relief is by using corticosteroids, typically used for dermatitis. The treatment calls for 60 mg per day in adults for a period of 10 to 20 days. Oral antihistamines can offer some quick relief but will not affect the breakout.

Image provided by: http://www.physsportsmed.com/issues/1999/05_99/garner.htm

Image provided by: http://www.physsportsmed.com/issues/1999/05_99/garner.htm

According to Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac Book: A Short Natural History and Cautionary Account , by Thomas E. Anderson, the best way to avoid getting a rash from poison oak is to stay away from the plant. It is important to know what the plant looks like and where it is typically located (often grow around trees and can be easily overlooked and tossed into a campfire). “If you get the oil on your skin, wash as soon as possible with lots and lots of cool water. The sooner you wash, and the more water you use, the less likely you will be of getting a rash ( Anderson , 24).” If the rash covers more than 20 percent of your body, or develops in sensitive areas like the eyes, mouth or genitals, see a doctor immediately. Physicians can prescribe steroids in either cream form or by injections that may decrease the allergic reaction. Extremely sensitive people may need to be hospitalized.

According to Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, Poison Sumac, and Their Relatives , by Edward Frankel, the quickest and most efficient way of dealing direct contact with poison oak is to first cleanse exposed skin with generous amounts of isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol. Second, wash skin with water. Third, take a regular shower with soap and warm water. Last, but not least, clothes, shoes, tools, and anything else that may have been in contact with poison oak should be wiped off with alcohol and water. Be sure to wear gloves or otherwise cover your hands while doing this and then discard the hand covering.

Personal stories of special treatment that helped treat poison oak.

Ruth, at ( mitlov@NOSPAMnaxs.net ), said, “ I have suffered in major ways from poison ivy over the years. The product that has helped the most, amazingly so, and seems to have help me build up an immunity is, is one from the homeopathic line of Hylands. It's simply called "Poison Ivy/Oak." I have taken the pills upon exposure, but never the recommended dose as I am sensitive to medicine and think smaller doses have worked for me. Homeopathy may not work for everyone, but it has made my life much less miserable. I also know that bathing with octagon soap right after working in the yard is a local folk remedy that seems to help as well for when you touch it. (I used to get it without even touching it.)" http://poisonivy.aesir.com/view/homeopathic.html

Studwitch@nospamaol.com said, “I have experimented with natural healing for at least 30 years. I started getting poison ivy regularly about 10 years ago when I joined a cross-country running club. I tried my old remedy that I have used for anything that is open or can be and has poison that needs to be drawn from it… cream of tarter. You watch the area and wait for it to open and ooze or you can usually open it with something abrasive like rubbing it with a washcloth, then mix a paste (not too firm and not too watery) with the tarter and apply it to the oozing area. " http://poisonivy.aesir.com/view/homeopathic.html

Products

This page consists of links where poison oak prevention items can be found. There are a number of different products that aid in the prevention and treatment of poison oak.

Tec Labs : multiple products

Zanfel :poison ivy wash

Raytech :pre contact towelette

Gaiam : origional poison oak soap

Brush-B-Gone : kills poison oak, poison ivy, and poison sumac

Oatmeal Bath Treatment : treats dry skin due to poison oak

Many over the counter ich relief medicines will aid in the treatment of poison oak. Just ask.

Home

Facts

Seasonal Change

Products\Treatment

Native American "Chumash" Usage

Quiz/Game