Roughing it through the wilderness is hard enough before you have to worry about an itchy poison ivy rash. These essential oils are absolute must-haves for any survivalist or prepper. When you need relief from a poison ivy rash fast, this is what you should be reaching for.
Eucalyptus Oil
The favorite of the (critically endangered) koala bear, the eucalyptus leaf has oils that are exceptionally good at relieving itchiness and redness. While the oil is found mixed in with many vapor rubs, you can also try applying it in its raw form to a rash or a rough spot.
With active agents like menthol and eucalyptol, the oil has great restorative properties for irritated skin.
Lavender Oil
One of the most popular essential oils is lavender. The essential oil is known for its soothing aroma, and many people use it in a diffuser to help combat anxiety.
In its raw form, lavender oil can also be used to soothe irritated skin. In the case of skin irritated by the urushiol resin found on poison ivy, lavender oil can combat the symptoms of the other compound.
Myrrh Oil
Myrrh is likely best-known for its role in the Biblical Nativity story, but it’s an actual oil made from a tree found in Northern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.
The oil has been shown to have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties and is often used in traditional remedies for chronic pain. As such, it could be a great balm for a poison ivy rash.
Cypress Oil
Cypress oil is known for its antimicrobial properties. Often, bacteria on the surface of your skin can cause the rash from poison ivy exposure to linger longer than it normally would.
Cypress oil could help you combat such bacteria and help your rash subside sooner rather than later.
Peppermint Oil
Peppermint oil has a wonderful capacity to simulate the sensation of cooling on the skin. If your skin is hot, red, and itchy, a few drops of peppermint oil can bring a cooling and soothing sensation that helps decrease itchiness and combat pain.