Evidence supporting the use of: Jewelweed
For the health condition: Rashes and Hives

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) has a long history of traditional use among Native American peoples and in North American folk medicine for treating skin irritations such as rashes, hives, and, most notably, poison ivy dermatitis. Topical preparations made from the plant’s juice or poultices were commonly applied to affected skin areas. The rationale behind its use is partly based on the plant’s watery sap, which is believed to soothe itching and inflammation.

Scientific evidence supporting jewelweed’s effectiveness is limited and mixed. A few small laboratory and clinical studies have examined its potential anti-inflammatory and anti-pruritic (anti-itch) effects, with some in vitro research suggesting that compounds in jewelweed, such as lawsone and saponins, may inhibit histamine-related swelling or reduce allergic reactions. However, controlled clinical trials in humans have generally failed to demonstrate a consistent benefit over placebo, particularly for poison ivy. As of now, there is no strong scientific consensus supporting its efficacy for rashes or hives, and major medical organizations do not endorse its use for these conditions. The continued popularity of jewelweed is therefore rooted primarily in tradition rather than robust clinical validation.

More about Jewelweed
More about Rashes and Hives

Products containing Jewelweed

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