Can poison ivy be treated with salt water?

No. Urushiol is the active ingredient in poison ivy (and poison oak, and poison sumac). This is an oily organic compound which is NOT soluble in water. Or in salt water. read more

No. Urushiol is the active ingredient in poison ivy (and poison oak, and poison sumac). This is an oily organic compound which is NOT soluble in water. Or in salt water. If you are in contact with one of these plants, washing with soap and water within 10 minutes is the only prophylactic remedy. read more

Hot water no help. Poison ivy is a contact dermatitis that takes 10 - 14 days to clear. Hot water will cause the superficial blood vessels in the skin to dialate making the area redder and if hot enough briefly numb nerve endings. It will not in anyway improve or shorten the natural course of poison ivy. The only treatment that partly helps is oral or injectable steroids, but side effects can be significant. read more

Witch hazel is another home remedy to treat poison ivy. Soak a cotton ball in witch hazel and apply it on the rashes. 5. Aloe Vera. Aloe vera is one of the best ways to get rid of poison ivy as it is really soothing to treat skin allergies. Apply fresh aloe vera gel on the blisters. read more