Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis) is a lovely, lush plant that grows where there is plenty of moisture. It is in the Impatiens family, and depending on the variety, it can have bright orange, orange and yellow, or yellow flowers. The juicy stems are what most people are familiar with as medicine, but you can also use the leaves and flowers.
For exposure to poison plants (ivy, oak, sumac), crush the fresh stems with your hands and apply the juice to the area of exposure as soon as possible. Fresh juice or the crushed fresh plant as a poultice works better than prepared salves and ointments.
I am one of those people who can glance at poison ivy and get a rash all over. While out foraging with a small group, I used it immediately after I distractedly grabbed a fistful of poison ivy by mistake. I beat feet to the jewelweed and started mashing it in my hands until it was crushed and juicy. I then washed my hands with it and never got a rash.
Jewelweed can also be used to treat other skin irritations, such as nettle stings, sunburn, bug bites, scrapes, hives, and rashes. It can also treat burns, cuts, bruises, sprains, raw skin, and more. It is also an antifungal, so it can be used on ringworm, athlete's foot, etc. Internally, it has been used to treat fever, jaundice, stomach cramps, and as a liver and kidney tonic. Scientific research shows jewelweed has anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anaphylaxis-modulating benefits.
I am one of those people who can glance at poison ivy and get a rash all over. While out foraging with a small group, I used it immediately after I distractedly grabbed a fistful of poison ivy by mistake. I beat feet to the jewelweed and started mashing it in my hands until it was crushed and juicy. I then washed my hands with it and never got a rash.
Jewelweed can also be used to treat other skin irritations, such as nettle stings, sunburn, bug bites, scrapes, hives, and rashes. It can also treat burns, cuts, bruises, sprains, raw skin, and more. It is also an antifungal, so it can be used on ringworm, athlete's foot, etc. Internally, it has been used to treat fever, jaundice, stomach cramps, and as a liver and kidney tonic. Scientific research shows jewelweed has anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anaphylaxis-modulating benefits.
It's edible too. The stems can be eaten raw, but they are high in oxalic acid. Boiling them lowers the oxalic acid, so that is how they are usually consumed.
I have been studying and practicing herbal medicine and foraging for wild edibles since the early 1990s. My herbal education blends extensive self-directed study with formal training through two herbal schools, complemented by numerous classes and active engagement within the online herbal community. As a clinical herbalist and herbal educator, it is my joy and calling to help others discover the many benefits of the plants growing right beneath our feet. I encourage everyone to do their own research and always check for contraindications. -Wendy aka Wendy2Bear aka Mama Asbell
