06/16/2026
Well friends, it’s that time of year again! Now that it’s camping/outdoor all day weather it’s time to brush up. You’ve heard “leaves of 3, let it be”, but what about after you already added it to the lawn bag? Buckle up, here’s your crash course…
PREVENTION
🌱Wear long sleeves & long pants during hiking, yard work, etc.
🌱Wash hands and tools well and immediately after yard work.
🌱Don’t touch plants unless you’re sure of what they are.
AT HOME REMEDIES
Over the years we’ve heard everyone and their brothers “tried and true” trick for poison ivy from scratching the blisters open and pouring alcohol on them to gas and bleach rinses 😱😱 DO NOT DO THOSE! Instead..
🌱Wash skin immediately after contact with soap and water or wipe with alcohol to help get rid of oils.
🌱Wash all clothing, tools, pets, etc that may have come in contact.
🌱Keep blisters clean and dry and try to avoid itching!
🌱Over the counter calamine, Tecnu, IvaRest, or Zanfel can help with itching.
Common myths debunked:
🌱Poison ivy doesn’t spread per se, but if there are still oils lingering (think pets, rags, blankets etc) you can “spread” it by not taking care of the oil.
🌱Spots that didn’t come in direct contact with the plant likely came into contact with the oil inadvertently before you knew you touched it making it seem like it’s spreading because it’s not as affected or shows up later.
🌱Contrary to what you may think, burning it is a huge no no 🙅🏽♀️ burning poison ivy releases the oil into the air which can then lead to internal poison ivy 😳 Trust us, you DON’T want that.
As always, if you meet this 3 leafed fiend and need our assistance for when it surpasses at home treatments we’re just a call or message away! 💚
Image credit:Cleveland Clinic
