Plant Contact Allergy & Poison Ivy
Most people know that contact with Poison Ivy causes, itching, burning, and redness of the skin, with blisters appearing up to five days after contact.. Touching contaminated areas before they are thoroughly cleaned just spreads the toxin and should be discouraged. More serious reactions include headaches, fever, and large blisters.
If blisters are broken from scratching, there is also a serious risk of bacterial infection, which could really ruin your day. So as Mom always used to say, "sit on your hands if you have to", and get proper treatment a sap!

To treat Poison Ivy victims, first remove all contaminated clothing or footwear, and clean it carefully without direct skin contact. Residual plant oils on clothing can easily recontaminate unless it is thoroughly washed.

Next, wash all affected skin with strong soap and water, followed by rubbing alcohol. Antihistamine first-aid creams are often helpful, and a tincture (extract in alcohol) of calendula is also said to relieve the itching. In the woods, it is often possible, in the same habitat as Poison Ivy, to find Jewelweed (Spotted Touch-me-not), whose leaves may be crushed and immediately rubbed on affected skin to prevent the reaction.
Content Courtesy : museum.gov.ns.ca.
^{The information provided herein is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. The information should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.}