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Poison ivy is well known for the painful, sometimes long-lasting lesions it may afflict on sensitive individuals. The plant, a member of the family Anacardiaceae, is known by several Latin binomials in the scientific and botanical literature: Toxicodendron radicans (L.) Kuntze, T. rydbergii (Small ex Rydb.) Greene, and Rhus radicans (L.). A bewildering number of herbal remedies, which vary widely in efficacy, are suggested by both the popular and scientific literature for treating poison ivy dermatitis (hereafter Toxicodendron dermatitis, TD).

This critical review summarizes the existing medical data relating to the capability of these plants to heal inflammatory skin disorders such as TD. Due largely to a lack of research, many remedies have scientifically unproven efficacy, such as gumweed (Grindelia spp. Willd., Asteraceae). Other recommended remedies have scientifically disproven efficacy. An especially poignant example is jewelweed (Impatiens capensis Meerb. and I. pallida Nutt., Balsaminaceae), perhaps the most popular traditional herbal remedy for treating TD, which has been discredited by a number of studies.

Though these findings may at first seem disheartening, there are several herbal remedies that have demonstrated efficacy in treating inflammatory skin conditions similar to TD. Among this category are echinacea, aka purple coneflower (Echinacea spp. Moench, Asteraceae) and witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana L., Hamamelidaceae). Continuing research in the field will likely expand this list in upcoming years.

Poison Ivy and Skin Rashes

In a previous issue of HerbalGram, Armstrong and Epstein¹ discussed the history, biology, chemistry, and toxicity of the genus Toxicodendron to which poison ivy belongs, and they addressed some popular remedies for both treatment and prevention of lesions. Some major points that are immediately pertinent to this discussion are reviewed below.

Two species of poison ivy are recognized from Northern America: eastern poison ivy (T. radicans) and its sister species, western poison ivy (T. rydbergii). Depending on the botanist, several subspecies of eastern poison ivy may be acknowledged.² This genus also harbors a number of other poisonous plants, including Pacific poison oak (T. diversilobum [Torr. & Gray] Greene), Atlantic poison oak (T. pubescens P. Mill.), and poison sumac (T. vernix [L.] Kuntze). Exposure and reaction to any one of these plants will render an individual reactive to all others due to allergen similarity.³ For ease of reference, the dermatitides caused by all of these plants will be considered under TD.

Poison ivy’s powerful allergens, known collectively as urushiol, easily transfer to human skin. Urushiols are alkenyl polyphenols.⁴ To spark an immune response, these relatively small chemicals must first bind to proteins on skin cells⁵ which then sets off a chain reaction involving many aspects of the immune system.⁶ Typically, this series of events takes two to several days to culminate, and people often don’t realize they’ve contacted the plant until the hypersensitivity reaction is well underway. Additionally, poison ivy often goes unrecognized in the field either because people aren’t looking for it or don’t recognize it (poison ivy exhibits a high degree of morphological variability contingent on genetic and environmental factors).⁶ A list of plants containing urushiol and producing TD and related inflammations is shown in Table 1.

The cardinal sign of TD is inflammation, which has four main components: heat, pain, erythema (redness), and edema (swelling). Vesiculation (blistering) can also occur and, when severe, there is weeping of serous fluid from the affected sites. The primary symptom is pruritis (itching), which is usually episodically intense, followed by a refractory (regressive) period. Pain and tenderness may be present on occasion where there is intense, tight edema.

Herbal remedies that effectively alleviate the symptoms of TD frequently target one or more of these components, either by acting directly on the immune system itself, or indirectly by acting on products of the immune system. Still others provide analgesic effects.

Diversity of Herbal Remedies for Toxicodendron Dermatitis

A catalogue of over 175 different herbal remedies that have been utilized in the treatment of TD has been compiled during the research to prepare this article. Twenty-five of the most frequently-mentioned remedies have been distilled from this larger set and are presented in Table 2. As is apparent from the Table, herbal remedies for poison ivy dermatitis are phylogenetically diverse, coming from both “primitive” and “recent” plant lineages. Ferns, grasses, herbs, shrubs, and trees have all been utilized.

Fourteen of these plants are discussed in detail below and are divided into three groups based on indications and popularity: (1) plants used frequently and specifically for TD; (2) plants indicated for skin disorders sensu lato (in the broad sense); and (3) other plants
of merit.

Plants Used Frequently and Specifically for Toxicodendron Dermatitis

Gumweed

Gumweed (Grindelia spp. Willd., Asteraceae) flowering tops and leaves are frequently recommended by the herbal literature for treating TD. Its popularity stems from a long history of usage beginning with Native Americans, who employed it specifically for this condition (and others).^{7, 8} In the mid-nineteenth century, the efforts of Dr. C. A. Canfield helped catapult gumweed into popular use among Anglo-American populations,⁸ where it has since been perpetuated.

Aqueous extracts or infusions are typically employed. Writing in the early 1900s, Sollmann recommended that a diluted fluid extract be used to wash the afflicted site.⁹ In 1936, the American Pharmaceutical Association suggested that the fluid extract should be combined with sodium bicarbonate, sodium sulfate, glycerin, and water to make a poison ivy lotion once known as Patton’s lotion.¹⁰ Alternatively, bark infusions of gumweed, lobelia herb (Lobelia spp. L., Campanulaceae), or sassafras (Sassafras albidum [Nutt.] Nees, Lauraceae) may be utilized topically.¹¹ Gumweed is a frequent ingredient of commercial herbal products designed to treat TD.

To date, few medical studies of this plant have been reported, preventing any recommendations on its usage in the context of TD. However, no reports of adverse reactions to topical preparations have been reported, suggesting that topical use of gumweed is relatively safe. Phenols in the plant may be responsible for its anti-inflammatory properties.⁸

Jewelweed

Unquestionably, jewelweed (Impatiens capensis Meerb., Balsaminaceae; I. pallida Nutt., Balsaminaceae) is more frequently cited for treating TD than any other herbal remedy. Several factors quickly explain jewelweed’s popularity: (1) its widespread distribution throughout much of the U.S.; (2) its weedy habit, often growing in the same locations as poison ivy; (3) ease of identification; (4) the fact that both species found in the U.S. may be used; (5) its convenience—no preparation is necessary; and (6) the absence of adverse reaction reports when it is used in this manner.

Various groups of Native Americans employed jewelweed for numerous ailments,⁷ especially skin disorders such as TD. ^{7, 12} Most often the succulent stems were crushed and their juices applied directly to the lesions. The same mode of treatment is commonly used today. Additionally, jewelweed has become the premier ingredient of many commercial herbal remedies for TD that usually employ a combination of several herbs.

Jewelweed’s fame has attracted much scientific scrutiny. While it is supported by an overwhelming number of testimonials and anecdotal evidence, most scientific studies have found jewelweed to be ineffective in treating TD.^13-16 One early study did show support for the plant,¹⁷ and another found evidence that compounds inside jewelweed could neutralize Toxicodendron allergens under highly controlled (i.e., not clinical) conditions.¹³ Compounds isolated from the corolla of a related species, I. balsamina L., have shown selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibiting (anti-inflammatory) properties.¹⁸ Despite these unfavorable results, jewelweed is still highly acclaimed and firmly embedded in herbal lore, buttressed by a large number of testimonials proclaiming jewelweed’s efficacy from credible sources.^19-23 No adverse reactions to jewelweed have been reported in the scientific literature.

Plantain

Plantain (Plantago spp., Plantaginaceae) is a popular remedy for many of the same reasons as jewelweed. Native Americans employed numerous members of the genus for healing skin disorders (frequently burns) and as analgesics.^{7, 12} Both traditional Native American and more recent Anglo-American practices employ above-ground parts of plantain topically.²⁴ Raw leaves are crushed and rubbed over affected areas. Less frequently, tinctures, extracts, or infusions are made; several modern commercial preparations contain plantain.

Little has been written about plantain as a cure for TD in the scientific literature, but it has been mentioned specifically for this purpose.^{22, 25} Both P. lanceolata and P. major have been noted for their anti-inflammatory qualities by several sources^{23, 26, 27} including Culpepper, an English herbalist of the 1600s who praised P. major for its ability to “hinder inflammations.”²⁸ Duckett, in a letter to the editor of The New England Journal of Medicine, described an impromptu experiment where the leaves of P. lanceolata were used to successfully ameliorate TD in a group of 10 people.²⁵ In laboratory studies, P. lanceolata has demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity,²⁹ and P. major has demonstrated anti-nociceptive (pain-killing) properties.³⁰ This research suggests plantain may be effective in the treatment of TD, but further studies are needed. There are no reports of adverse reactions to this herbal remedy.

Poison Ivy

Toxicodendron species (e.g., T. radicans, T. rydbergii) themselves have long been esteemed for both prevention and treatment of the lesions they inflict,^31-35 alongside other skin disorders. Native Americans would chew fresh young leaves of the plant (generally those emerging in the springtime) to prevent TD from occurring,⁷ and this practice was transmitted to Anglo-Americans.^{36, 37} Less frequently, tinctures were made from fresh plant or dried roots and taken orally to achieve the same effect.^{7, 33} The goal in all cases was to induce hyposensitization in susceptible individuals so that their bodies would ignore the inflammatory effects of urushiol upon future exposure.

While hyposensitization was regularly practiced by some groups of Native Americans for centuries, it didn’t appear in Western medical journals until the mid 1800s where it was reported with some caution.³⁸ Kligman^{36, 39} aptly reviewed the history of poison ivy hyposensitization up to 1960 and concluded that temporary hyposensitization was plausible via either intramuscular or oral administration of poison ivy extract. However, he also emphasized that while much anecdotal evidence supported these claims, there was little science to substantiate them.

Controlled experiments addressing poison ivy hyposensitization have since been conducted. Scientists first demonstrated that this technique was feasible in guinea pigs before demonstrating efficacy in humans.^40-43 Importantly, these studies differed in their mode of administration and population specifics, which explain variation among the results. No studies have yet been conducted to explore preventative effects from chewing Toxicodendron leaves.

In addition to inducing hyposensitization, Native Americans also used Toxicodendron species to treat poison ivy reactions already underway. Most frequently, fresh leaves were rubbed over affected areas to promote healing.⁷ Several Anglo-American authors stated that drying the leaves resulted in a loss of medicinal activity.^{32, 44} However, urushiol remains dangerous years after herbarium specimens of poison ivy are prepared.⁴⁵ The fruit juice and seeds of Toxicodendron species were also used topically by Native Americans to heal other skin wounds.³⁴

While no statements can be made concerning the use of Toxicodendron as a treatment for TD due to an absence of research, several conclusions may be reached concerning Toxicodendron hyposensitization. First, determining the appropriate dosage is exceedingly difficult, typically requiring large amounts of urushiol over long time periods. Second, adverse effects are frequent when using this remedy. Individuals taking Toxicodendron preparations for conditions other than TD have also reported negative consequences.^46-48 Third, any protection obtained via this route is only transient. Most studies showed persistence of tolerance for only a short period of time following withdrawal of the hyposensitizing stimulus. Fourth, products of this plant vary wildly in both content and efficacy depending on the mode of preparation. Fifth, poison ivy preparations taken systemically will affect multiple body systems, not just inflamed areas of skin.

All of these concerns are compounded with the practice of leaf-chewing, where personal characteristics of both the plant and recipient make dosing difficult. Following ingestion, dermatitis may erupt in the oral as well as anal regions, leading to discomfort and pain.^{38, 49}

One quickly appreciates the dangers associated with this remedy. Individuals may avoid commercial products derived from poison ivy due to either previous or potential side effects. Some readers may have received poison ivy vaccines (poison ivy leaf extracts injected intramuscularly or subcutaneously),^44,50 but these have been discarded due to their highly variable and frequently poor efficacy rate over time.

Finally, there are many homeopathic poison ivy remedies (often sold as “Rhus tox”) in which a homeopathic dilution of a fresh poison ivy extract is used as the primary ingredient (homeopathic remedies from other, non-Toxicodendron sources, are also commonly employed). These products are used both as a preventative prior to exposure and as a treatment post-exposure. [Editor’s Note: Being highly diluted and thus virtually free of any active ingredients (from a conventional pharmacological perspective), they are considered quite safe.]

Remedies Indicated Broadly for Skin Disorders

Aloe

The succulent aloe plant (Aloe vera [L.] Burm. f., Aloeaceae), sometimes referred to by the synonymous name A. barbadensis, has been used since ancient times for a variety of medical purposes among Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures.^{27, 51, 52} Unlike all aforementioned herbal remedies, aloe is neither native nor naturalized in America (although it is commercially cultivated in Florida and South Texas) and consequently has no tradition of use among native peoples. Aloe has only recently been engaged in the treatment of TD, based primarily on its purported efficacy in healing numerous other skin disorders.

Reviews of the scientific literature on aloe have only recently been supplied.^53-56 Results from scientific studies are contradictory. Used to heal wounds, fresh raw aloe gel and various aloe preparations have been found to be efficacious, inactive, or even deleterious by different researchers. (These findings may be the result of variations in content and quality of some preparations used in the research). Nevertheless, beneficial effects from aloe preparations have been documented via oral, subcutaneous, and topical routes in almost a dozen mammal models, including humans. Several studies have documented anti-inflammatory effects.^57-59

Although much further research is needed, there is currently no reason to doubt that aloe may perform similar anti-inflammatory actions when applied to TD.²² Adverse reactions to aloe vera derivatives are very rare, considering its widespread use, but have been reported.^{60, 61}

Echinacea (Purple Coneflower)

Native Americans found Echinacea species (Echinacea spp., Asteraceae) to be versatile remedies for many ailments, including skin disorders.^{7, 8, 12, 62, 63} Echinacea was spring-boarded into popularity among Anglo-Americans, somewhat improbably, by the enterprising doctor A. Mayer who marketed echinacea preparations as a blood purifier.^{56, 64} One pharmacognosy textbook noted that topical applications of echinacea (either E. angustifolia or E. purpurea) were used locally in the Midwest as a treatment for TD.⁴⁴

The roots and leaves (occasionally fresh, but most often dried) are used most frequently in both homemade and commercial preparations, typically involving a drying process. For skin disorders echinacea is typically found in ointment or tea form, but it is also used in poultices, tablets, and tinctures.^{24, 26, 27}

Echinacea’s burgeoning popularity in the last decade has been mirrored by an escalation in research efforts. Data on three of the genus’ nine species (E. angustifolia DC, E. pallida [Nutt.] Nutt., and E. purpurea [L.] Moench) is mountainous and has been critically evaluated in HerbalGram and other sources.^{24, 63, 65-70} Researchers are just beginning to investigate the other six species, of which much less is known.⁷¹ Due to differences in species used, plant parts used, and extraction method, echinacea preparations may exhibit dramatically different effects when subjected to controlled experiments testing their efficacy as anti-inflammatory medicines.

Rodent models of inflammation have been employed to assess the anti-inflammatory effects of echinacea preparations when applied topically.⁶⁹ Aqueous extracts^{72, 73} and acetic acid extracts⁷⁴ from the roots of E. angustifolia and hot ethanol extracts from the roots of E. pallida and E. purpurea⁷⁵ have all shown anti-inflammatory effects in these models. Furthermore, hot ethanol extracts of E. pallida and E. purpurea roots have demonstrated significant wound healing (cicatrizing) properties under similar conditions.⁷⁵ Dried root powder from E. purpurea also exhibited anti-inflammatory qualities when fed to rodents,⁷⁶ suggesting that compounds from echinacea may be capable of exerting their anti-inflammatory effects whether administered orally or topically in rodent models.

Echinacea preparations have also been assayed in vitro for their ability to counteract biological processes linked to inflammation. Hot n-hexane extracts⁷⁷ and purified caffeoyl derivatives⁷⁸ from E. angustifolia have all proven efficacious in these experiments. Taken together, the data suggest that echinacea’s ability to heal skin disorders may be linked to several biochemical constituents (alkamides, alkylamides, caffeoyl derivatives, polyphenols, and polysaccharides), with the proportions of these compounds varying by species and also by tissue.^{8, 72-79} Studies are just beginning to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that underlie these properties.

Results from these studies and others suggest that echinacea extracts containing these constituents possess anti-inflammatory qualities as demonstrated in both in vivo and in vitro experiments. In addition, the German Commission E has approved a preparation made from the fresh-pressed juice of E. purpurea herb (i.e., aerial parts) as a treatment for wounds.⁷⁰ As echinacea has shown efficacy under these conditions, it is tempting to speculate that echinacea may also be efficacious in healing TD, though this remains to be borne out experimentally.

Peppermint

Although peppermint (Mentha x piperita L. [pro. sp.], Lamiaceae) is not indigenous to North America,⁸⁰ Native Americans quickly discovered that it harbored medicinal properties similar to its native relatives (specifically, M. arvensis L. and M. spicata L.). Infusions of peppermint, and less frequently tinctures and tonics, were used by Native Americans principally to treat colds, fevers, digestive disorders, and inflammatory conditions.⁷ Scientists worldwide have produced much research focusing on peppermint’s usage in these contexts and also skin disorders. Menthol is the principal component responsible for peppermint’s medicinal properties;^{81, 82} aromas and tastes associated with mints are attributable to esters such as menthyl acetate.⁸² Both peppermint leaf and the oil distilled from the leaves have well-corroborated medicinal benefits when used both internally and externally for a variety of ailments.^{24, 70} Peppermint oil is used to treat poison ivy dermatitis via creams, lotions, and soaps; less frequently, it is used as a component in medicinal baths.⁸³

Studies have shown that peppermint oil has multiple beneficial effects on skin tissue, including anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties;^57,82 peppermint also has strong antioxidant properties.⁸⁴ Though never studied in the context of TD, peppermint’s anti-inflammatory properties may lend themselves to this cause and deserve further attention. Its use is deemed safe,^24,56,70 although rarely adverse reactions are reported.⁸²

Witch Hazel

Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana L., Hamamelidaceae) bark (sometimes leaves and twigs) is a remedy known by many laypeople for its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing qualities,²⁰ which were long ago understood by Native Americans.^{7, 12, 63} Its anti-inflammatory properties have been demonstrated in human volunteers;^85,86 however, depending on the mode of preparation the desired constituents may be lost.^{23, 87} Hamamelitannin and various proanthocyanidins may be responsible for this anti-inflammatory activity.^{56, 63, 88} Recent data suggest that witch hazel may be employable for a variety of chronic diseases and cancer.^{89, 90}

For the treatment of poison ivy, witch hazel bark (sometimes leave and twig) extracts, infusions, and ointments are typically made (with alcohol added for preservation) and topically applied. Witch hazel is well-tolerated by most people²⁰ (though infrequently adverse reactions are reported),^{91, 92} and a variety of commercial preparations are typically accessible to the general population. However, preparations sold in the U.S. are frequently lacking tannins (commercial manufacturers often employ a distillation process, which does not retain the tannins), believed to be the main medicinal component.^23,26,56 The limited evidence available suggests that witch hazel may be efficacious in soothing and speeding recovery of skin disorders like TD, and it is a worthy candidate for further specific research in TD herbal treatment.

Other Herbal Remedies

Several other herbal remedies, for which much less is known, deserve mentioning and will be discussed briefly here. Overall, these remedies are less popular than the previous set described and consequently experience less use.

Burdock

Following the introduction of burdock (Arctium lappa L. Asteraceae; A. minus Bernh.) to North America by Europeans,⁸⁰ Native Americans employed burdock medicinally in many contexts, including skin disorders and a variety of inflammatory conditions.^{7, 12} Many different suggestions have been made pertaining to the use of burdock in treating TD. Some say the leaves should be crushed and rubbed against the wound to relieve itching, similar to how one would use jewelweed or plantain. The leaves also harbor antibacterial qualities.⁹³ Others report using the roots, either applying them in tincture or oil form on the wound site or ingesting them in tea or tablet form. Burdock is also recommend for other skin disorders such as acne, boils, or psoriasis.^{27, 28, 56, 94}

No studies related to the curative effects of burdock have yet been published; however, Lin et al⁹⁵ have shown that burdock extracts have a hepatoprotective effect which may be related to its antioxidant activity, and anti-inflammatory activity of an isolated component (arctigenin) has been experimentally demonstrated.⁹⁶ Most of the scientific literature on burdock relates to poisonings and allergic reactions,^97-101 although in several cases purported burdock poisonings were later found to be due to the accidental adulteration of some commercial supplies with belladonna root (Atropa belladonna L., Solanceae), thereby causing atropine poisoning.⁵⁶ (Burdock root is widely recognized for its lack of toxicity; the root is a staple vegetable in Japanese cuisine, where it is known as gobo). The lack of medical validation on burdock root precludes making any definite comments about burdock in TD treatment.

Comfrey

The ability of comfrey (Symphytum officinale L., Boraginaceae) to heal skin disorders has been known by many cultures, including the Greeks¹⁰² and some groups of Native Americans^{7, 12} who used both its roots and leaves in a variety of medical capacities. These are harvested and then used in poultices, oils, ointments, teas, or tinctures.^{20, 26, 94} For treating TD, some sources indicate that the leaves may be used raw similarly to jewelweed or plantain. For skin wounds in general, both above- and below-ground components are employed in poultices.⁵⁶ Importantly, comfrey is used in a plethora of commercial products indicated for TD.

A major drawback to comfrey is its hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are found in many plant species.¹⁰³ These compounds have the potential to exert toxic effects and do not contribute to the medicinal activities of the plant, which are instead attributed to other compounds such as allantoin and triterpene glycosides (i.e., rosmarinic acid.)^{70, 104} Allantoin is responsible for its wound-healing properties.²⁸ Studies have shown that individual comfrey plants within a population can vary wildly in biochemical composition, particularly in respect to their pyrrolizidines,¹⁰³ but alkaloid content also varies within different tissues of the same plant.¹⁰⁵ Numerous sources thus caution that comfrey should be used externally only,^{28, 106} but that it should not be used for an extended period on broken or abraded skin, due to the presumed increase in absorption of the pyrrolizidine alkaloids. For external use of comfrey herb and leaf, the German Commission E notes the following cautions: application should only occur on intact skin; during pregnancy use only after consultation with a physician; daily applied dosage should not exceed 100 µg (mcg) of pyrrolizidine alkaloids with 1,2-unsaturated necine structure, including their N-oxides; and duration of use should not exceed 4-6 weeks per year.⁷⁰ Due to all the concerns associated with this remedy, and considering that multiple safer herbal alternatives are available, this plant is not recommended for the treatment of TD.¹⁰²

Flax

Native Americans had several uses for flax (Linum spp. L., Linaceae), and they found it to be especially effective in treating swellings of wide variety.^{7, 8} Flax has been utilized for thousands of years as an oil and then fiber plant by peoples of Eurasia,⁵¹ but only in the last two thousand years as a medicinal plant.^{28, 52} The healing powers of the plant lie in its seed, also known as linseed, which were recognized by the Greeks as being useful in treating inflammation; today, herbalists use the plant for the same indications.^{22, 26, 28, 70, 94, 107}

The majority of medical data on flax pertain to its use in cancerous, cardiovascular, or digestive conditions.^{24, 26} One study showed that flaxseed oil taken orally inhibited synthesis of IL-1beta and TNF-alpha in human volunteers.¹⁰⁸ As these are pro-inflammatory cytokines, long-term ingestion of flaxseed oil may alleviate inflammatory conditions. For dermatitis, flax is applied externally as a cataplasm.^{24, 70} These observations suggest that flax may alleviate skin inflammation and possibly be successful in the treatment of TD. Adverse reactions after oral ingestion have been reported.¹⁰⁹

Goldenseal

Native Americans found goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis L., Ranunculaceae) root to be useful in treating inflammation among other conditions.^{7, 27} For the treatment of TD, goldenseal is sometimes used in ointments and salves on the wound site itself, or the dried powder or a tea from the root is employed to wash the affected area. Usually the roots and rhizomes are used. Berberine and other isoquinoline alkaloids (such as hydrastine)²⁷ have received much attention for their antibacterial properties.^{56, 110, 111} From the limited studies available, one can speculate that goldenseal’s potential role in mitigating inflammation may be more indirect in that it protects damaged skin from becoming infected,²⁴ rather than directly healing the wound. One in vitro study found that isolated berberine may have deleterious effects on cultured skin cells in the presence of light,¹¹² but these results have not been corroborated by in vivo or clinical data.

Mullein

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus L., Scrophulariaceae) is a native of Europe that was only introduced to North America in the last several centuries.⁸⁰ However, its medicinal properties have been known since antiquity and have been utilized by a variety of cultures for inflammatory disorders.^{19, 94} Subsequent to its introduction, Native Americans quickly adopted mullein as an herbal remedy for bruises and wounds of all types (among other uses).⁷

Both flowers and leaves are employed medicinally, but usually the former are preferred.²⁷ In the treatment of TD, juice from the leaves may be applied raw to the skin, or an extract or ointment may be made from the juices and applied topically. Decoctions and infusions of the plant (for example, infusing inflorescences in olive oil)^{27, 28} have generally proved to be most efficacious.¹¹³ Only in recent years have these properties been corroborated scientifically; a review and further data have been published.¹¹³ While results of recent studies are positive, more work needs to be conducted on mullein’s anti-inflammatory activities; a lack of data precludes any statement of its efficacy in the treatment of TD. No adverse effects from topical usage have been reported.

Myrrh

The common name “myrrh” (Commiphora spp. Jacq., Burseraceae) can be applied to several species of the genus Commiphora, most commonly C. molmol, C. myrrha , C. guidotti, and C. mukul. Sometimes members of the genus Balsamodendron are also included. When indicated for TD, myrrh is typically found as one component in multi-component salves or oils. Myrrh has been used historically in many cultures to treat skin disorders as well as other conditions,^{52,56, 70,114-116} and several studies have demonstrated myrrh’s anti-inflammatory,^57,115-117 analgesic,¹¹⁷ anaesthetic,¹¹⁸ and anti-microbial properties.^57,115,118 No study has yet examined myrrh’s efficacy in healing TD. However, the available evidence would indicate that myrrh is an ideal candidate for treating this condition. Allergic reactions from this plant have been reported.^{119, 120}

Conclusions

An extraordinary number of herbal remedies have been recommended historically and contemporarily, in both the popular and scientific literature, for treating TD. These remedies vary in efficacy and safety. At this time, the current information available on these herbs suggests that aloe, echinacea, witch hazel, and possibly plantain, mullein, and myrrh are the most promising remedies for TD. All of these plants have been used as broad-spectrum cures for skin disorders. Surprisingly, jewelweed, the herb most commonly associated with TD treatment, has no support in the scientific literature.

A resounding theme that emerges from a consideration of the scientific data en total is that very little scientific investigation has been conducted regarding herbal remedies for TD. Several studies in the mid-twentieth century explored herbal remedies in this capacity but yielded disappointing results, which may explain why no recent research has been conducted. However, the recent and continuing renaissance of herbal medicine, mirrored by research funds made available from interested commercial, government, and research institutions, provide conditions favorable for new research in this field.

David S. Senchina is a doctoral candidate at Iowa State University. His research is multidisciplinary, encompassing botany, immunology, and exercise science. One of his current projects is to document the pollination ecology of poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) through field studies. He has written both original research articles and reviews on poison ivy for journals such as Wildflower, Vulpia, and Coleopterists Bulletin.

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Identification of the Most Common Toxicodendrons in North America

Eastern poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans): Climbing vine or shrub with highly variable leaf morphology (structure and form), though leaves typically have 3 leaflets. Distinguished from benign trifoliates by its aerial roots and alternate leaves. Nine subspecies. Eastern and southern U.S.

Atlantic poison oak (Toxicodendron pubescens): Nonclimbing shrub. The epithet pubescens refers to its hairy fruits and leaves, features that best distinguish it from other Toxicodendron species. Typically a denizen of nutrient-poor, dry soil habitats. Often confused with white oaks. Eastern and southern U.S.

Western poison ivy (Toxicodendron rydbergii): Nonclimbing shrub. Distinguished from other Toxicodendron species in bearing spoon-shaped leaflets (leaflets bent upwards at the midrib); never producing aerial roots; and having hairless, long petioles (stalks that attach leaves to the stem). Central and northern U.S. into southern Canada.

Pacific poison oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum): Climbing or nonclimbing vine or shrub. Most easily distinguished by its geography: far western U.S. (California, Oregon, and Washington). As its name suggests, this species is highly diverse in its leaf morphology (including lobes), often resembling west coast oak species. Usually trifoliate (having 3 leaves).

Poison sumac (Toxicodendron vernix): Nonclimbing tall shrub or tree. Pinnately (branching from each side of a common axis) compound leaves with 7-13 leaflets. Differs from benign sumacs in midvein color (typically bright red), smooth leaf margin, and preference for wet soil habitats. Eastern U.S. Photo Robert H. Mohlenbrock @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database.