Poison Ivy and a natural remedy.
Poison ivy
(Toxicodendron radicans -- eastern poison ivy/Toxicodendron rydbergii -- western poison ivy)
typically grows as a vine or shrub, and it can be found throughout much of North America
(except in the desert, Alaska, and Hawaii). It grows in open fields, wooded areas, on the roadside, and along riverbanks. It can also be found in urban areas, such as parks or backyards. Poison ivy plants typically have leaf arrangements that are clustered in groups of three leaflets, though this can vary. The color and shape of the leaves may also vary depending upon the exact species, the local environment, and the time of year. The plant may have yellow or green flowers, and white to green-yellow berries, depending on the season.
----Mugwort----
Mugwort may be best used as a way to prevent getting a rash in the first place, but some people swear by mugwort’s healing properties and ability to neutralize the urushiol,
the active ingredient in poison ivy.
Simply grind fresh mugwort leaves between hands and rub the clump of plant matter on the rash. You can also boil fresh leaves and make a tea to apply to the affected area directly, or you can soak gauze or a cheesecloth in the tea and lay over skin.
