Back off, itch!

Natural Health, April, 2005

Spring outings mean exposure to poison ivy, sumac, and oak. But nature also provides relief from such unfortunate encounters.

what      Poison Ivy Pills              Sumactin

why       Made from Rhus                Sumactin is a soothing
          toxicodendron (poison ivy),   topical oil-like gel made
          this homeopathic remedy has   from natural ingredients
          been in use for 80 years.     such as jewelweed, aloe,
          Also called Rhustox., it's    plantain, and soapwort.
          taken before or after
          exposure.

evidence  A recent study published in   Jewelweed, which often
          The International Journal of  grows in the vicinity of
          Pharmaceutical Compounding    poison ivy, has long been
          found that Rhus tox. Reduced  considered in folk medicine
          the severity of symptoms      to be its antidote.
          related to toxic-plant
          exposure.

caveats   No contraindications; Rhus    The manufacturer advises
          tox. has a long history of    against using the product
          safe use.                     on your face.

use       As a preventive, dissolve     Apply the gel directly to
          two Poison Ivy Pills on       the affected area three
          your tongue morning and       times daily until symptoms
          evening for one week. Repeat  disappear.
          in 30 days. If you've been
          exposed, dissolve two
          tablets on your tongue every
          two hours for a total of
          four doses, then every three
          or four hours. Take less
          frequently as symptoms
          abate.

what      Itch Nix

why       Itch Nix cools down and helps
          contain burning rashes with
          B vitamins, camphor, menthol,
          echinacea, calendula, witch
          hazel, comfrey, nettles, and
          clove bud oil.

evidence  Studies have shown that
          camphor and menthol are
          therapeutic for the type of
          contact dermatitis caused by
          poison oak or ivy. Witch hazel
          is a time-honored Native
          American remedy for skin
          conditions.

caveats   Use externally only. Avoid
          contact with eyes.

use       Apply liberally to the rash and
          repeat as often as necessary.