Many people are allergic to Poison Ivy due to the presence of urushiol - a skin irritant. Poison ivy, oak and sumac all produce this oil which can be very dangerous to you. This oil is found on every part of the vine. Sometimes the slightest brush can trigger an allergic reaction. Poison Ivy, Poison Oak and Poison Sumac are all from the same family but are found in different areas. Poison Ivy mainly grows in the form a vine along the riverbanks. Causes of Poison Ivy To come in contact with any part of the vine. Touching clothing or pets which have come in contact with the vine. Inhaling smoke from a burning poison ivy vine can also cause allergic reaction. Symptoms of Poison Ivy Extreme itching accompanied with red rashes Eruption of rashes in the form of streaks or patches at the affected area The affects may subdue after sometime or may prolong depending upon the severity of the reaction. Self-Care measures Learning more about poison ivy, oak and sumac before heading outdoors Avoid touching your skin or any other clothing which still contains the triggering oil Carry a first aid too kit which would at least compromise soap, warm water and a brush Wash the clothes in hot water and soap to remove the residue Apply any cream if available to stop the itching Avoid too much heat as sweating can aggravate the itching Home Remedies for Poison Ivy You can apply Calamine lotion on the affected area. Applying calendula lotion on the rashes helps in reducing the itching and spread of rashes. Cool compresses would provide a great relief as it helps in containing the itchy feeling. You can apply a slice of watermelon on the rash to help in healing and soothing the skin. Make a thick paste of half a cup of baking soda and proportionate amount of coffee. Pour cool coffee in the baking soda bowl to make a thick and fine paste to be applied on the rash. Let it dry naturally and you would notice the difference in a day or two. Apply Vicks VapoRub on the affected area and get rid of the itching. Boil some leaves from peach tree. Wait till it cools down; later dab this solution with cotton on the affected areas. There won’t be any more rashes to bother you anymore. You can also apply milk of magnesia at affected part to stop the itching and provide a soothing effect. Rubbing banana peel over the affected area can help you with the itching and rashes. To provide relief pour aloe vera juice or apply tofu on the affected area. This helps in soothing and drying out the poison. Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.