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Poison Ivy on the Run

by Tracy L.

May 2006

Hi ~ I'm so tickled with the results of our latest 'brew' that I had to share it.

My seven year old got into poison ivy almost a week ago. I'm ashamed to say it, but we have been so busy that it was two days before I even realized it!

I had just purchased some Burdock and Comfrey for just this purpose (my husband had a terrible run-in with poison ivy a few weeks earlier) and I already had Plantain.

As soon as I realized what we were dealing with, I pulled down Practical Herbalism and got busy. I intend to make the oil extract into an ointment, but as of yet - we've just used it in oil form. Each time I treat my son (about 4 times a day) the rash looks a bit better than the previous time; some spots are completely healed already! Considering that my husband got progressively worse for several days before showing improvement (using caladryl) we've been very impressed with these results. I'm fairly certain that if I'd have caught it sooner, the rashes would be gone by now.

Without further ado, our oil extract, which I expect to be good for all sorts of rashes and skin irritations. (oh, I used it on my baby's irritated bottom with equally impressive results!)

Mix 1/3 cup each herb in a small saucepan and cover with extra virgin olive oil:

Simmer till herbs are crispy (about 1 - 2 hours). Strain. Add 5 drops lavender oil (acts as a preservative) for each ounce of oil extract.

Use as needed.

I also made a wash by simmering the same herbal blend in water for several minutes. I wipe down his skin with the wash before applying the oil.

I SO appreciate all the information on your site and have been using it and your books to learn what I can about herbs ever since the Restful Sleep recipe and article appeared in NGJ several months ago.

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I have been ordering bulk herbs from the Bulk Herb Store for several years, and I have really enjoyed everything. I will now be adding Jasmine Green Tea to my orders.

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~Eileen

Did You Know?

Split ends and frail hair can be drastically reduced by simply consuming Horsetail cut and/or powder. Also, weak and thin finger nails can after just a few weeks be stronger and thicker. The nutritional make up of Horsetail is well known as one of the best cures for such annoyances. Just add a bit of the cut herb to any tea combination. In a tincture, it would even be more effective. The powder can also be encapsulated, if you prefer capsules. Continue usage even after you see improvements to make them more permanent.

Kelp would be our second choice as a nutritional powerhouse that can make a noticeable difference. Consuming both would be the best way to tackle it.