Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis or Impatiens pallida), also known as spotted touch-me-not or orange balsam, is an annual plant traditionally used as a folk remedy for contact dermatitis. It is sought out for its potential to relieve the rash caused by exposure to urushiol, the irritating oil found in poison ivy. This guide explores the preparation methods for harnessing jewelweed’s soothing properties.
Understanding Jewelweed’s Action Against Urushiol
The irritating reaction from poison ivy, poison oak, or sumac is caused by urushiol, an oily resin that penetrates the skin and triggers an immune response. Jewelweed’s traditional use is based on the idea that its sap can counteract this oil. The plant contains saponins, which are natural surfactants that have a soap-like quality. Saponins are believed to work by neutralizing urushiol or physically helping to wash the oil away from the skin’s surface before it can bind and cause a reaction. The immediate application of a fresh jewelweed mash has been shown to be effective in reducing dermatitis.
Identifying and Harvesting Jewelweed Safely
Jewelweed is commonly found in moist, shady areas like ditches, stream banks, and the edges of wooded areas, often growing near poison ivy. Impatiens capensis is characterized by its bright orange, spotted flowers and succulent, translucent stem, which contains the watery sap used in remedies. The leaves have scalloped margins.
A distinctive feature is the seed pod, which bursts open when touched, earning it the name “touch-me-not.” For harvesting, use the leaves and several inches of the stem, as the stem contains the most available sap. Cut the stem above ground level rather than pulling up the roots, allowing the plant to grow back.
Step-by-Step Preparation Methods
The most immediate method for preparing jewelweed is creating a fresh mash or juice. This involves crushing the fresh leaves and succulent stems to release the sap directly onto the exposed skin. This application should be done immediately after contact with urushiol for the best chance of preventing a rash.
Preparing a Decoction (Liquid Wash)
For a stable and storable preparation, a simple decoction can be made by boiling the plant material. Roughly chop the harvested jewelweed, including stems and leaves, and place it in a pot. Cover the material with water, bring it to a boil, and then simmer for 30 minutes until the liquid turns dark orange and the volume is reduced by half. After cooling, strain the liquid to remove all plant solids, leaving a concentrated wash.
Creating Infused Oil
The concentrated liquid can be used as a wash or frozen in ice cube trays for long-term storage and cooling application. Another stable preparation involves infusing jewelweed into a carrier oil, such as olive oil, to create a salve or soap. To create an infused oil, submerge the chopped plant material in oil and gently heat it in a slow cooker for several hours before straining.
Proper Application and Storage
The effectiveness of jewelweed depends heavily on the timing of its application. For the best prophylactic effect, apply the remedy as soon as possible after urushiol exposure, ideally within minutes or an hour, to remove or neutralize the oil before it bonds with the skin cells. Once a rash has developed, jewelweed is primarily used to soothe itching and inflammation.
When applying a fresh mash or liquid wash, rub it gently over the exposed area. If using frozen cubes, the cold temperature provides additional relief while delivering the plant compounds. Application can be repeated every few hours as the itch returns.
The liquid decoction can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a day. For seasonal use, freezing the strained liquid in ice cube trays is the most effective storage method, maintaining potency for up to a year. Infused oil should be stored in a cool, dark place and used within about six months.