The constant itching leading to redness and blisters on your skin can be due to the allergy caused by Poison Ivy, a toxic plant. The plant is mostly found in the wild but can also grow along the sides of the roads and the trails.
If you somehow get in contact with the plant, it is possible that you may develop an allergic reaction known as Contact Dermatitis. Such a similar response is also known to be caused by Poison oak. Essential oils for Poison Ivy are a great way to treat such allergic reactions. These allergies may last up to 10-15 days. However, in severe cases, they may take up over 30 days to heal. To quicken up the process, use essential oils.
How to Use Essential Oils for Poison Ivy Treatment?
One can treat the poison ivy reaction by using over the counter methods. However, if you are not quite into using medications and are looking or natural remedies, then essential oils for poison ivy are a great option. These oils obtained from plants are quite potent and can be helpful in treating various conditions including Poison Ivy.
[Also Read: Natural Remedies to Get Rid of Poison Ivy]
What Essential Oils to Use for Poison Ivy?
Essential oils are known to have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and antibacterial properties that make them quite effective in treating reactions caused by poison ivy and poison oak. Mentioned below is the list of essential oils for poison ivy that can cure the trouble and give you relief instantly.
1. Tea Tree Oil for Poison Ivy
Health Benefits of Tea Tree Essential Oil for poison ivy(1). Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce the symptoms of the result. Using the oil also helps reduce pain and prevent secondary infections.
How to use?
- Blend 5 drops of tea tree oil in one tablespoon of jojoba or olive oil
- Massage the oil blend on the affected area
- It promotes faster healing of the area infected by poison ivy
2. Peppermint Oil
Poison Ivy reaction is known to cause severe itching. If you wish to get relief from it, then use peppermint oil. Application of the oil helps soothe inflammation, burning, and itching caused due to contact dermatitis.
How to use?
- Take two to three drops of the peppermint oil. In case of sensitive skin, you can dilute the oil with coconut or olive oil
- Massage the oil on the affected area
- Menthol present in peppermint has a cooling effect that soothes the inflammation and reduces itching
3. Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender Essential Oil is quite potent with restorative properties that provide quick healing of poison ivy itch and other symptoms. It fastens up the skin healing process and reduces inflammation.
How to use?
- Take four to five drops of Lavender essential oil
- Apply them directly to the area of the reaction
- Repeat the process daily to reduce the symptoms
4. Neem Oil
If you wish to get rid of poison ivy symptoms sooner, then Neem oil can be of great help. Its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties make it one of the most useful remedies for poison ivy treatment(2).
How to use?
- Take a few drops of diluted Neem Oil mixed in any carrier oil
- Apply it on the affected region
- Let it remain there for half an hour
- After that, wash the oil with water
- You should repeat the process one to two times a day for at least a week to see the results
[Also Read: Baking Soda for Poison Ivy Rash]
5. Cypress Essential Oil
The antiseptic properties present in Cypress Essential oil promotes fast healing by preventing infections(3). It also helps soothe the inflammation and reduce the pain caused due to the allergic reaction.
How to use?
- Add a few drops of Cypress Oil in coconut oil
- Massage the mixture on the area of infection
- Do this at least two times a day to see quick results
6. Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus with its powerful ingredients makes it to the list of essential oils for poison ivy. It has a quick effect on the inflammation caused by the allergic reaction. The menthol present in it helps reduce the pain and burning caused due to the rash.
How to use?
- Take a few drops of the oil and apply it on the affected region
- Repeat the process one to two times a day
- The healing properties of the oil ensure a fast recovery
[Read: Home Remedies for Poison Ivy]
7. Myrrh Oil
Application of Myrrh essential oil increases skin hydration and soothes the pain due to the allergy. It speeds up the process of healing.
How to use?
- Add a few drops of the oil in your bath
- Soak it correctly for the oil to work and stimulate the healing process
[Read: Treat Poison Ivy with Bleach]
8. Helichrysum Oil
Helichrysum Oil is known to have anti-inflammatory properties that are quite effective against Poison Ivy symptoms. The rejuvenating compounds present in the oil help treat the reaction and ease of pain and inflammation. It further improves the immune system of the body against the response.
How to use?
- Add five drops of Helichrysum Oil in a tablespoon of coconut oil
- Apply the blend to the inflamed area
- Do this two times a day till the problem subsides
9. Geranium Oil
Geranium oil can work wonders for those suffering from an allergic reaction due to Poison ivy. Its anti-allergic properties can quickly soothe the itching and other symptoms of the rash. It prevents the release of additional histamines and helps bring the immune system back to its normal functioning.
How to use?
- Take five drops of the oil and mix them in a tablespoon of coconut oil
- Massage the blend on the affected area
Side-Effects of Essential Oils
Essential oils are getting famous for treating Poison Ivy for their useful properties that accelerate the recovery process. But if you wish to use them, then it is highly recommended that you should first check your skin’s sensitivity as these oils are quite compelling. Also, you must use them in diluted form as these may cause:
- Severe Headaches
- Allergic Reactions
- Skin Rashes
FAQs
1. Do Essential Oils Have a Shelf Life?
Essential Oils once opened do get affected by sunlight, oxygen, and heat that changes their composition. Hence, you can say that essential oils have a shelf life.
2. Can I Consume Essential Oils?
Essential oils are mostly for topical application or inhalation. Only a few are ingestible. Intake of some essential oils may prove to be fatal.
Besides being painful and annoying, the blisters caused by Poison Ivy are embarrassing. Essential oils for Poison ivy accelerate the skin’s healing process so that you can get quick relief from them. These are readily available and prove to be a natural remedy for those who frequently get affected by Poison Ivy
