Oatmeal Cure for Poison Ivy

Whether you come into contact with poison ivy, poison oak or poison sumac, it's the same substance, toxicodendrol, that causes the unbearable rash. If you are allergic to the toxicondendrol, a rash will develop from 12 to 72 hours later on the spots of skin that came into direct contact with the plant. To help control the itching, there are tips on using oatmeal to treat poison ivy rashes.

Oatmeal--Not Just for Breakfast

• Though it's not the most pleasant bath you'll ever experience, placing two to three cups of oatmeal in a warm bath will coat your body with a protective, powdery film that helps reduce itching for several hours. Alleviating the itch is the best way to help the rash heal, because the skin will not be further damaged by scratching. You can also make a paste out of oatmeal and water, and apply it to affected areas. This may be more preferable, especially if the rash is confined to a small area.

Over-the-Counter Oatmeal Help

• Several oatmeal-based treatments are available at the pharmacy, including Aveeno Skin Relief Bath Treatment and Anti-Itch Concentrated Lotion, that contain colloidal oatmeal (ground into a fine powder). Colloidal oatmeal has been used since ancient times to alleviate itching and reduce irritation.

Other Help for Itch Relief

• In addition to oatmeal treatments, you can use hyrdrocortisone ointments and calamine lotion to help alleviate the irritation and itch associated with poison ivy.