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Since poison oak is one of the worst poisonous plants that can affect you, your best bet is to learn all about the plant as well as the impact of poisoning from the plant. If you know the difference between poison oak and poison ivy, then you will be better equipped to deal with having been touched by poison oak. To begin with, you should know that there is no available and ready treatment for you if you have been touched by poison oak.
It is good to be aware that if your skin has been touched and affected by poison oak, then there is a time period of recovery it will require. There is no magical remedy that will stop the scratching or the lesions that may have occurred. You can, however, try methods to get relief from the itching on a temporary basis.
Contrary to popular belief, you should totally avoid using ice or cold water for relief. This method is usually known to backfire, as it ends up suppressing the symptoms momentarily. This leads to an increased time period of recovery. For instance, if the normal time period for the affliction to pass is about 48 to 72 hours, then applying ice or cold water will increase that time frame, sometimes by almost double or three times.
Instead, you should run hot water liberally over the affected area. this will help to get relief from the itching. Please note that in the beginning, the itching may seem to intensify. But give it some time and you will see that the itching sensation gradually subsides and after a while, it may even pass altogether. You should make it a point never every to apply any kind of soap on the affected area. No matter how mild or natural or hypoallergenic in nature the soap is. You should stay away from soap for the time being. Instead, make a simple paste with Fuller's Earth and water and apply this to the affected area. This will help to reduce the itching and will also help to cleanse the area well and thoroughly. Fuller's Earth is also known to have some healing properties so that may also speed up your healing process. For faster results, you can add a tablespoon of salt to the Fuller's Earth. Salt is known to help with subsiding the itching. You can also add a pinch of baking soda to the mix, which will help with sanitization.
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