Treatments for poison oak range from over the counter topical ointments to less traditional home remedies. Any treatment option works to relieve itching and reduce inflammation and oozing caused by the reaction. Effective home remedies include a variety of options such as peppermint oil, goat milk soap and others.
Medically termed urushiol-induced contact dermatitis, the reaction associated with poison oak is considered an allergic reaction. Poison oak and other plants contain an oily resin, urushiol, which is an irritant to many individuals’ skin. When exposed to the resin, individuals often breakout in a rash. Other symptoms include itching, redness and inflammation.
The treatment for contact dermatitis associated with poison oak relies on effective anti-itch and anti-inflammatory remedies. A variety of treatments are available, but home remedies are often the most effective. Peppermint oil, frankincense oil and goat milk soap are a few particularly effective treatment options.
While peppermint oil may seem an unlikely candidate for treating an allergic reaction, it is one of the most effective treatments for poison oak. Peppermint oil contains highly concentrated menthol, which relieves itching and burning associated with the condition. The scent also helps calm the body and relax blood flow, which may contribute to relief as well.
Frankincense is another oil known to help treat the effects of poison oak. The compounds in frankincense slow and even stop oil production which prevents further spread. The oil also helps relieve itching and inflammation.
The natural creaminess of goat milk soap makes it an effective treatment for poison oak. The milk from which the soap is made penetrates the skin and offers relief. One of the most sensitive types of soap available, goat milk soap also possesses a number of vitamins and minerals that replenish the skin.
Poison oak is causes an itchy and often painful skin reaction. Nonetheless, natural treatment options offer relief from the itching as well as treatment for inflammation and associated symptoms.
