Over the Counter Remedies for Poison Ivy

Calamine Lotion

• One of the most popular over-the-counter treatments for poison ivy is calamine lotion. Calamine is readily available, low cost and is effective in relieving poison ivy itch. One of the biggest drawbacks of calamine is its pink color (see Reference 1). Once Calamine is applied, a person looks like a patchy monster from the pink lagoon. Today calamine is available in a clear form so people can treat the itch and go out in public.
  
  

Oatmeal and Baking Soda

• Oatmeal is delicious for breakfast and it soothes the painful poison ivy rash. Some over-the-counter ointments use oatmeal as an ingredient. Or, you use the oatmeal from your kitchen. For the homemade variety, prepare the oatmeal according to the package directions. The oatmeal should be thick. Apply the oatmeal to the infected areas while it is still warm. Allow it to dry and rinse off in the shower (see Reference 1).
  
  Many believe baking soda helps speed healing by promoting the drying process. You can use the baking soda by itself in bathwater or you can mix it with the oatmeal. Prepare the oatmeal and mix in baking soda before applying to the rash. Alternatively, make a baking soda paste. Mix baking soda with enough warm water to form a thick paste. Spread on infected areas. Allow the paste to dry thoroughly before rinsing it off in a hot shower (see Reference 1).
  
  

Creams and Ointments

• There are a number of creams and ointments formulated specifically for the treatment of skin rashes. These treatments help provide relief from itching and inflammation. Depending on the brand, they probably contain corticosteroid, aluminum hydroxide or zinc carbonate (see Reference 2). In addition to the creams, antihistamines will help relieve the painful symptoms during the healing process.
  
  

Golden Seal Powder

• An article in the Countryside & Small Stock Journal suggests using golden seal powder to treat poison ivy. Golden seal powder is available at natural food stores. Make a cream out of the herb by simmering 1 tsp. in about a pint of water. Apply the warm solution to the rash with cotton balls for itch relief (see Reference 3).