Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Impatiens (Impatiens spp.), particularly Impatiens capensis (jewelweed), has a longstanding tradition of use in North American folk medicine for soothing skin irritations, including bites and stings from insects and plants like poison ivy. Native American tribes and early settlers applied crushed jewelweed stems and leaves topically to affected areas, reporting relief from itching, redness, and inflammation. The rationale behind its use is partly based on the plant's natural sap, which is thought to contain compounds such as lawsone and saponins with potential anti-inflammatory and antihistamine effects. However, despite these widespread traditional practices, modern scientific studies providing robust evidence for its efficacy are limited. Some laboratory research has demonstrated mild anti-inflammatory and antipruritic (anti-itch) activity in extracts of Impatiens species, but clinical trials in humans are either lacking or have produced inconclusive results. Overall, while impatiens continues to be included in some herbal remedies for bites and stings, its support is grounded primarily in tradition rather than rigorous scientific validation. Further research may clarify its potential benefits, but at present, the evidence supporting its use is considered modest.

More about impatiens
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Other health conditions supported by impatiens

Abrasions
Bites and Stings
Bruises (healing)
Cuts
Insect Repellant
Scratches and Abrasions
Wounds and Sores

Products containing impatiens

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.