Evidence supporting the use of: Jewelweed
For the health condition: Poison Ivy or Oak

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis), also known as "touch-me-not," has a longstanding reputation in North American folk medicine as a topical remedy for skin irritation caused by poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) and poison oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum). Its traditional use stems from Indigenous herbal practices and was subsequently adopted by European settlers. The plant's juice or poultice is typically applied directly to the affected skin soon after exposure, with the belief that it can prevent or reduce rash and itching.

Scientific validation of jewelweed's effectiveness is limited and mixed. Some laboratory studies have identified compounds such as lawsone (a naphthoquinone) in jewelweed that may have anti-inflammatory or antipruritic properties. However, controlled clinical studies in humans have not consistently demonstrated significant benefit over placebo or standard soap-and-water washing. For example, a randomized controlled trial published in 2012 (Long et al., Wilderness & Environmental Medicine) found that jewelweed extract was not more effective than placebo in preventing or treating poison ivy dermatitis.

Despite ongoing use and anecdotal support, the evidence base primarily rests on tradition. Thus, while many continue to recommend jewelweed for poison ivy or oak exposure, its efficacy remains unproven in rigorous scientific studies.

More about Jewelweed
More about Poison Ivy or Oak

Products containing Jewelweed

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