Suggest me some poison oak home remedies.

Poison oak is a plant that is closely related to the poison ivy plant. Coming into contact with the plant would cause you to break out into a rash that itches and burns simultaneously. The body's immune system fights against the oil deposited on the skin by the plant and therefore the formation of a rash. Though scratching the infected area does not cause it to spread, dirt that lies under the finger nails could get into areas of the skin that have been broken and cause further complications. Severe symptoms of the rash include swelling of the glands in the throat, and a difficulty experienced in swallowing and breathing, because of the swelling. In such cases, urgent medical attention is required.

The most effective way to treat a rash caused by poison oak is by applying a damp warm compress over the affected area. This relieves the itching within a matter of a few minutes and also moisturizes the affected area. An oatmeal bath is another effective method of taking care of poison oak rash. The juice obtained from the mint and menthol leaves is especially beneficial in providing quick relief from rashes, and an application of menthol or mint will provide instant relief, while reducing the swelling. Similarly, olive oil is known to have therapeutic properties, and an application of the same, over the affected area will lower the sensitivity of the skin.

Increase your intake of vitamin C through fruits and vegetables, as it boosts the immune system and enables the body to control the rash naturally. After having taken a bath, pat the skin dry with a soft cotton towel, so as not to cause further damage by rubbing the skin with a towel made of coarse material. Use herbal based soaps as these do not remove the natural secretions given out by the body in order to fight the rash. Other effective methods of curing a rash caused by poison oak include washing the affected area with chamomile tea. chamomile tea is a known detoxifying agent and will cleanse out any of the toxins present on the skin that are causing you to break into a rash. A poultice made from a blend of yellow dock root, chaparral and dandelion is also known to reduce itchiness and discomfort caused by a rash. The use of aloe gel is time tested and well recommended in treating any infection of the skin that breaks into a rash.

answered by G M

Since poison oak is one of the worst poisonous plants that can affect you, your best bet is to learn all about the plant as well as the impact of poisoning from the plant. If you know the difference between poison oak and poison ivy, then you will be better equipped to deal with having been touched by poison oak. To begin with, you should know that there is no available and ready treatment for you if you have been touched by poison oak. It is good to be aware that if your skin has been touched and affected by poison oak, then there is a time period of recovery it will require. There is no magical remedy that will stop the scratching or the lesions that may have occurred. You can, however, try methods to get relief from the itching on a temporary basis. Contrary to popular belief, you should totally avoid using ice or cold water for relief. This method is usually known to backfire, as it ends up suppressing the symptoms momentarily. This leads to an increased time period of recovery. For instance, if the normal time period for the affliction to pass is about 48 to 72 hours, then applying ice or cold water will increase that time frame, sometimes by almost double or three times.

Instead, you should run hot water liberally over the affected area. this will help to get relief from the itching. Please note that in the beginning, the itching may seem to intensify. But give it some time and you will see that the itching sensation gradually subsides and after a while, it may even pass altogether. You should make it a point never every to apply any kind of soap on the affected area. No matter how mild or natural or hypoallergenic in nature the soap is. You should stay away from soap for the time being. Instead, make a simple paste with Fuller's Earth and water and apply this to the affected area. This will help to reduce the itching and will also help to cleanse the area well and thoroughly. Fuller's Earth is also known to have some healing properties so that may also speed up your healing process. For faster results, you can add a tablespoon of salt to the Fuller's Earth. Salt is known to help with subsiding the itching. You can also add a pinch of baking soda to the mix, which will help with sanitization.

answered by M W