Oatmeal - Simply boil up the oatmeal in water as you normally would. Let it cool for a few minutes, then apply warm to the affected area, Ideally, the mixture should be applied until a thick layer forms. It will harden as it dries. Most sufferers swear by this treatment, which is sometimes combined with a tablespoon or two of baking soda for extra relief from itch and oozing.

Baking soda - This treatment has also become a classic homemade cure, made by mixing 3 teaspoons of baking soda with 1 teaspoon of water until a thick paste forms. Apply to the rash and let dry. Another tried-and-true method for many poison ivy sufferers is full immersion in a soothing baking soda bath by adding 1/2 cup of baking soda to the bath water.

• Hydrocortisone cream - the over-the-counter anti-itch cream also helps to reduce swelling.

Vinegar - Just sprinkle liberally on rash or blisters for instant relief from itch.

Although the smell may not be to everybody's liking, vinegar seems to help draw out the "poison" from poison ivy while it also helps healing. White distilled vinegar or apple cider vinegar seem to work best.

Banana peel - Touted by many as a homemade "miracle cure", the inside of a banana peel rubbed on poison ivy rashes seems to bring instant, cooling relief.

By some accounts, banana skins may even do the trick when all other poison ivy treatments fail.

Aloe Vera gel - A logical alternative, aloe vera for poison ivy is known to heal minor skin cuts and bring relief from sunburn, so apply liberally to affected areas to help sooth the itch and aid in healing.

Dishwashing liquid - Perhaps the most practical treatment of all, dishwashing liquid's anti-grease agents make it a common-sense remedy for poison ivy when applied liberally from the bottle at full strength. Simply wash off with cool water.

Note: Very rapid redness and unusually high swelling are two major symptoms that occur in those who suffer from severe allergic reactions to poison ivy. If this is the case, forgo any homemade treatments and SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY.

also see -> Natural bug & mosquito repellents | Mosquito Bites - Get Rid of the Itch

More about poison ivy, oak & sumac around the Web:

"Leaves of three, let it be." How to identify poison ivy.

Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac Information Center - Mini-encyclopedia on the topic with identifying photos, homemade treatments, commercial products and prescription drugs, related warnings and when to see a doctor, FAQ.

AAD - Poison Ivy, Oak & Sumac - American Academy of Dermatology guide to causes, symptoms and treatment, with additional tips on prevention.