POISON IVY: It’s the season to be outside, which comes with some hazards that should be recognized to make life easier, one of which is poison ivy.
Farmers’ Almanac shared the old saying “Leaves of three, let them be,” along with some tips for removal of the plants and tips for dealing with the rash that comes when one is allergic.
-Manually remove the entire plant — leaves, stems and root. You have to be sure to get it all. And, wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts and thick gloves—plastic or heavy cotton. Be sure to wash all clothing afterward. Put the entire plant in a plastic bag and dispose of it.
–Make a poison ivy killer spray. Some folks have had luck with this remedy: Combine 1 cup of salt and 1 gallon of vinegar in a pot and heat to dissolve the salt. Allow it to cool, then add and 8 drops of liquid dish soap and put the mixture in a spray bottle. You can spray the poison ivy or pour it directly on the plant. This will kill all vegetation, so be sure to only apply it to the poison ivy. It takes a few applications.
-Another is to plant grass seed. Poison ivy won’t grow where there is a lawn. It is usually found at the edge of wooded areas
Some natural remedies include treating the affected area with witch hazel to sooth itch; rub a banana peel or orange rind on it and let it dry; whip a raw potato into paste in a blender and apply that, covering loosely with plastic wrap. Pastes made with baking soda and water, or equal parts turmeric and lemon or lime juice are mentioned, too.
