4 Simple Techniques of Using Baking Soda for Poison Ivy Rash

Updated on November 14th, 2019
Baking Soda for Poison Ivy

Hazardous plants often catch you off guard. Contact with these plants could lead to an allergy reaction. Baking soda for poison ivy rash works very well, and it is the best home remedy that comes handy (1). Many people are allergic to this urushiol oil. When a person comes in contact with urushiol, he/she will suffer from poison ivy.  This could result in itchiness, swelling, and rashness.

The best thing to do after getting into contact with such dangerous oils is washing thoroughly. Using natural home remedies in such cases helps a lot to get relief from the symptoms and also the infection.

Bizzare Facts

  1. Did you know that December 30th is National Bicarbonate of Soda Day?
  2. Unlike us, most of the wildlife and birds eat poison ivy without being affected

Baking Soda for Poison Ivy

baking soda
Image:ShutterStock

Baking soda is a chemical compound, which is used as a treatment for many health conditions. It can also be used as an antacid for your refrigerator. It also helps remove odors. It is handy to treat the symptoms of poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac.

[Also Read: Baking Soda: Health Benefits & Uses]

How to Use Baking Soda for Poison Ivy Rash

When you get exposed to poison ivy, wash your skin within five minutes, and remove the oil. Use soap, and cold or lukewarm water for this. Hot water can worsen your irritation.

You can try one of the below methods for the application of baking soda to treat poison ivy.

1. Baking Soda Bath for Poison Ivy

Once the symptoms are developed, they can last for approximately three weeks. During this period, you will probably be willing to do anything to stop the itchiness. One of the best methods to get relief is to take a warm bath with baking soda (2).

To Make a Baking Soda Bath

  1. Mix one or two portions of baking soda in a tub of lukewarm water.
  2. Sit in the tub for at least 15 to 20 minutes.
  3. If you do not have a bathtub, then take a regular bath for a longer duration.
  4. Allow the affected area to soak entirely for at least 20 minutes.

2. Baking Soda Paste for Poison Ivy

Baking Soda Paste
Image:ShutterStock

This is one of the best ways to treat poison ivy rash, with the implementation of baking soda paste directly. Some people use thick baking soda paste, but some prefer in diluted and liquid form. You need to test on a small area of skin, to check if it causes any irritation.

Baking Soda Paste

  1. You can mix one portion of baking soda in one part of water to get more diluted form. Use less water if you want a thick paste.
  2. Soak a ball of cotton in baking soda paste.
  3. Apply the paste on the rash with the cotton ball.

Repeat it 3 to 4 times a day.

The Itching will get reduced, as baking soda dries. When you are experiencing open blisters, you have to avoid this home remedy, because baking soda can irritate them.

[Also Read: Treat Poison Ivy Using Apple Cider Vinegar]

3. Baking Soda Compress

Some people get a lot of relief by using baking soda compress. This is helpful to soothe itching and reduce swelling.

To Make a Baking Soda Compress

  1. You have to combine equal parts of baking soda and cold water.
  2. Apply it on the rash for 15 to 30 minutes using a cotton ball.
  3. Repeat this for few times a day using a clean rag or cotton ball each time.

Make sure not to rub the cotton ball on the rashes aggressively.

4. Baking Soda Spray

Baking soda spray is an ideal handy option, especially if you are out of cotton balls or clean rags.

To Make a Baking Soda Spray

  1. You have to mix one part of baking soda and three parts of water.
  2. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
  3. Spray the mixture on the rash several times a day.

Some poison based-plant rashes could cause hazardous skin infections like a poison ivy rash. Baking soda treatment is one of the best home remedies to treat poison ivy rashes, swelling, or the itchiness effectively. Baking Soda is the most economical solution to get rid of the annoying symptoms.


FAQs

1. Can Pregnant Women Use Baking Soda for Poison Ivy?

Since you are using it for application, pregnant women can also use it. But you should never consume it, as it can irritate your stomach during pregnancy. If you are having any other doubts regarding baking soda application to treat poison ivy, please contact your doctor immediately.

2. Can Diabetic Patients Use Baking Soda?

Yes, diabetic patients can also use baking soda. But it is better to check for the sensitivity. Apply in a small area and wait for 24-48 hours. If you do not find any rash, you can continue using it. Never take it orally without consulting your doctor as it could have adverse effects on the stomach.

3. Is Baking Soda Bath Safe When the Rash Is Severe

Yes, it is most advisable to get relief from your symptoms. But you should take a patch test before taking a bath. If you find any aggravation, talk to your doctor immediately for a better diagnosis.

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