Rhus toxicodendron, also known asRhus tox, is ahomeopathic remedyderived frompoison ivy.
Its botanical name isToxicodendron pubescens.
The FDA doesn’t evaluate homeopathicRhus toxproducts for safety and effectiveness.
SDI Productions / Getty Images
SDI Productions / Getty Images
The FDA doesn’t approve homeopathicRhus toxlabels either.
What Is Homeopathy?
Homeopathy was conceived in Germany 200 years ago.
It sources remedies from plants, minerals, and animals.
Homeopathic treatments are meant to be tailored for each individual.
Homeopathic treatments shouldn’t be used to replace medications or vaccines proven to be effective.
The FDA hasn’t approved any homeopathic productsand therefore hasn’t evaluated them for safety and effectiveness.
What Is Rhus Tox Used For?
Rhus toxhas been used as ananti-inflammatoryto treat conditions such as arthritis joint pain and skin disorders.
More research is needed to see howRhus toxwould work against the herpes virus in the body.
People with arthritis may experience joint-related symptoms such as pain and stiffness.
However, there have been studies examining its effects.
Some studies have focused on usingRhus toxin rats.
A study from 2000 involved human participants to evaluate using a homeopathic gel to treat osteoarthritis.
The homeopathic gel containedRhus tox,Symphytum officinale(comfrey), andLedum palustre(marsh-tea).
Poison Ivy Dermatitis Prevention
Poison ivycan cause an itchy and painful rash and blisters.
Avoiding the plant is the best way toprevent poison ivydermatitis.
Homeopathic practitioners commonly useRhus toxto prevent poison ivy dermatitis.
They recommend starting homeopathicRhus toxa month before you might get exposed to poison ivy.
Potential for Side Effects
As a homeopathic remedy,Rhus toxis not regulated by the FDA.
That meansRhus toxproducts aren’t evaluated for safety or effectivenessand there’s potential for contaminated or improperly diluted products.
double-check to speak with a healthcare provider before startingRhus toxor any other homeopathic remedy.
How Is Rhus Tox Administered?
Rhus toxis sold as an over-the-counter (OTC) homeopathic remedy.
you’re able to buy it in pill, liquid drop, or gel form.
Some concentrations of the remedy are available from online retailers for around $15 for 200 pellets.
confirm to look up your brand of homeopathicRhus toxfor any FDA alerts about false labeling or contamination.
Summary
Rhus toxis a homeopathic remedy derived from the poison ivy plant.
It has been used as an anti-inflammatory to treat conditions such as arthritis pain and skin disorders.
Like other homeopathic remedies,Rhus toxis neither approved nor regulated by the FDA.
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