Nice weather we have been having, for the most part. Itching to get outside? Now's a good time to talk about Poison Ivy (Toxicodendron radicans). I have had some bad poison ivy rashes in my time. If you've gotten it, you know it's an unrelenting itching that will annoy you by day and keep you awake all night.
So what to do?
First of all, learn to recognize the plant, here's a link with some information and photos. Also, know that the plant is alive in winter, without it's glossy leaves, so a good rule of thumb is don't touch any vine in winter, especially vines with hair.
http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/hort/consumer/poison/Toxicra.htm
http://www.fda.gov/fdac/features/796_ivy.html
Second, minimize exposure and clean the oils off if you're exposed. Here are some solutions from various sources: If you know you've been exposed, wash with soap and water, but don't scrub; or, rub skin with rubbing alcohol after exposure (use common sense, don't rub your eyes, face etc. with rubbing alcohol); some people say the crushed leaves of the Jewelweed plant will remove the oil from your skin. The FDA website above is very helpful.
Third, if the rash develops...this is beyond my ken, so ask your physician.
What works for me: Tecnu Poison Oak and Ivy Skin Cleanser, sold at Walgreen's and elsewhere. If I know I have been exposed, I apply this according to the directions (no stinging, no funky odor), and usually get no or very little breakout. Worth the price absolutely.
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