Backpackers: What is the best Poinson Ivy (Oak, Sumac) treatment for removal of the toxin?

Question by Showtunes: Backpackers: What is the best Poinson Ivy (Oak, Sumac) treatment for removal of the toxin?
I have Calomine lotion for the aftermath, but have also been looking for something to use immediatly to reduce the outbreak. There are some wipes that looked handy, 6 wipes for isnt too bad either. However, they will produce lots of trash.
Most of the other options require water and we’re going to have to pack in all our water. Any suggestions for what is effective, but also packable and useful with minimal water? Price is also a factor.

Do these really work any better than soaking with rubbing alcohol?
Water doesnt have to be packed out, but it has to be packed in and is heavy and bulky. Ointments and such are MUCH better.

As for the not spreading by scratching-this is wrong. I just had an outbreak that spread this way.

Again, washing is not an option in the normal sense-we’ll be on the move so we cant count on it. We need something with the minimal amount of water required. Cant split it between drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Sorry to be rude, but if you arent a backpacker dont bother answering as you dont understand the situation.

Best answer:

Answer by dano
you cant get rid of it once you have it. and unlike almost everyone says it doesnt spread from scratching, and it isnt contagious. The oils on your shoes/clothes could still spread it so wash those. In the mean time take a bath with oatmeal in it, and afterward apply a topical medicine. If it is real bad go see the doc. you might need steroids, depending on where it is also. good luck. the itching will let up in a few days.

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