Having a rash from Poison Ivy can be quite irritating. This is why it is important to stop it fr
om spreading. While there are many over the counter medicines you can get, yet you can actually use many natural methods for doing that as well.

Wash it Away

While it is highly recommended to avoid such areas where there is poison ivy, yet at a more practical level, this is definitely not possible. This is why, if you somehow get in touch with it, your best bet is to wash the affected area immediately. The itching usually starts within 15 minutes of touching the poison ivy, so washing that affected area immediately helps a lot.

Avoid Scratching

When you scratch the affected area, the rash automatically spreads. Although it may seem impossible to do at that moment, avoid the urge to itch that area.

Use Apple Cider Vinegar

Make a mixture of 1-1/2 cups water and ½ a cup of apple cider vinegar. Soak a cloth in it and gently press it on your rash. You can keep the mixture in the refrigerator as its coolness will also stop the rash from growing.

Apply Calamine Lotion

Calamine lotion is the best itching reliever. Simply dab it on the rash with a cotton ball, and you will find the urge to scratch going away.

Go for the Good Old Aloe Vera

If you have an aloe Vera plant in or around your place, then you have got a ready made solution for stopping poison ivy from spreading. Just directly apply the gel on the rash and you will see its size reducing after 2 or 3 applications. You can even go for a store bought aloe Vera cream.

Grab the Baking Soda

This is one versatile ingredient which can do just about anything including healing poison ivy. All you need to do is to make a paste of baking powder and water and apply it on the affected area. Remember that the paste should be thick and not runny. Let it dry and you will see your rash getting reduced as well. It works on even a worse rash with blisters oozing out.

While these are some of the most effective methods of preventing poison ivy from spreading, it is also advised to take off and wash the clothes which you are wearing while coming in contact with the plant. It is also recommended to wash your shoes as well; however you can place them under direct sunlight.