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Nothing spoils a vacation like a run-in witht those seemingly harmless, shiny three-leaf clusters. One brush with poison ivy, a summertime staple throughout the Eastern United States (or poison oak, it's western cousin), causes an extremely itchy red and often blistering rash for those who are allergic to it -- and that's approximately 70 percent of all people.
Those who have never had a reaction to these poison plants would be wise not to tempt fate: You can develop a sensitivity to them at any time. And, as anyone who has been afflicted knows, no amount of calamine lotion can eradicate the extraordinary itch. However, there are a number of effective natural remedies to relieve the rash and discomfort.
An anti-inflammatory, St. John's wort, (Hypericum perforatum) works to reduce itching and swelling. Apply St. John's wort tincture directly to the rash two to three times daily.
Homeopathy
Several homeopathic remedies can soothe burning, itchy and irritated skin. Look for calendula with St. John's wort. There are also combination remedies to treat itchy rashes. And don't be surprised if you see Rhus toxicodendron (poison oak and ivy) listed in the ingredients; homeopathic treatments work on the principle that the substance that causes the symptoms can cure the symptoms, provided it is in small enough quantities.
Finally, another soothing thing you can do when you're desperate for relief from poison ivy's misery: Take a very hot shower, letting the water spray directly onto the rash. This provides the kind of instant relief that scratching does.
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