Mary
Yes! (from 76 yrs, experience - sorry this is so long, but it all needs to be known. I can't understand why first aid and medical books never tell us this!) First,realize that a bad case of P Ivy can develop serious secondary complications,especially when the skin has been scratched or broken, that will require medical attention. However, in most cases,aloe vera plant leaves, USED AS SOON AS ITCHING AND BLISTERS APPEAR, will usually immediately stop the itching and blisters will soon disappear, sometimes almost overnight. When first noticed, simply split open Aloe Vera leaves, lay them, split side down (they will be slippery, may need extra hands) and tape or bandage them so that they will stay in contact with the blisters. Itching will be alleviated.Renew once or twice a day, when leaves have given up their juice and have become "rubbery". Even with the more advanced swelling,etc that you describe, it might be worth trying on a small, non-open skin area. Good Luck. And (voice of experience speaking) if you get it once, it will happen again. Two things to remember: 1. If you are going to be anywhere where there might be P ivy,before going, coat any exposed skin with old fashioned Fels Naptha soap-suds film. Oil from the P ivy plant touching the skin causes the blisters and the soap film will help keep it off until you can get home and shower immediately. Clothes should be washed immediately to remove any oil. (Also remember that pets may have the oil on their coats which can be passed on to loving hands.) 2. Learn what poison ivy looks like. If you need to irradicate it from your yard, use caution. All parts(stems, roots. leaves) have oil. Handle live or dead plants w/gloves and then clean gloves.(A systemic weed killer such as Round-up used systematically will eventually kill it out, including the roots. And DO NOT burn dead plants in an open fire. The oil in the smoke is still potent and can cause skin to be affected. Last: The same treatment takes the burn out of SIMPLE burns and used immediately will usually prevent any blister developing.EVERY KITCHEN SHOULD HAVE AN ALOE VERA PLANT ON THE WINDOWSILL. (available from most all chain store plant sections)