Natural Poison Ivy Antidotes
Perhaps you’ve heard rumors about certain plants being antidotes to poison ivy or at least know the sentiment that toxins and cures are often companions. Well for one of our least favorite native plants, (yes poison ivy is native), the cure is never far away. Here are a few poison ivy antidotes you can add to your herbalism tool belt this summer!
Jewel Weed - Impatiens capensis
What it is: A succulent, watery-stemmed native plant sometimes called “touch-me-not” for its spring-loaded seed pods that pop at the slightest nudge. Look for bright orange flowers and soft, light green foliage!
Where it grows: Moist, shady areas like stream banks, forest edges, and damp trail sides. If you’ve found poison ivy, there’s a decent chance jewelweed is lurking nearby like a quiet understudy. Found poison ivy? This is likely nearby!
Why it works: Jewelweed contains compounds (like lawsone and saponins) that help counteract urushiol, the oily irritant in poison ivy. Its juicy stems also act as a natural skin-soothing wash.
How to use it: Crush the fresh stems and leaves until they’re juicy and rub directly onto the affected skin. As a preventative measure, you can make salves, soaps, or freeze the juice into ice cubes so you have it on hand if needed.
Broadleaf Plantain - Plantago major
What it is: A low-growing, resilient herb with broad, ribbed leaves that hug the ground.
Where it grows: Just about everywhere: lawns, paths, compacted soil, and disturbed areas. It’s the ultimate “I’ll grow wherever I please” plant. It’s also edible! 👀
Why it works: Plantain is anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and draws irritants out of the skin. It doesn’t neutralize urushiol directly, but it calms the angry aftermath.
How to use it: Chew or crush a leaf into a mash (a “spit poultice” if you’re feeling traditional) and apply it to the rash. Cover and let it sit to soothe itching and support healing.
Rhubarb - Rheum rhabarbarum
What it is: A cultivated garden plant best known for its tart edible stalks and giant, dramatic leaves.
Where it grows: Garden beds and farms, especially in cooler climates. Plant this so you have it on hand if needed, and if not you can make pie!
Why it works: The stalks contain oxalic acid and other compounds that may help break down or bind urushiol oils when applied quickly after exposure. Thanks for the tip, Beth @ WNPI!
How to use it: Rub the freshly cut stalk juice onto the affected area as soon as possible after contact. Rinse after a short period. (Skip the leaves, they’re toxic if ingested.)
These remedies work best right after exposure, before the oil fully binds to your skin. Once you’ve crossed into blister territory, plants like calendula and comfrey can help calm inflammation, support skin repair, and take the edge off the irritation.
Now go forest bathe and find some poison ivy antidotes in the wild!