An antipruritic and vulnerary plant, traditionally applied topically to soothe itchy, irritated skin — often found growing near poison ivy and used as a traditional folk remedy for its rash.
Medicinal plant
Jewelweed
Impatiens capensis
A traditional topical remedy for itchy, irritated skin. Also called Orange Jewelweed, Spotted Touch-Me-Not.
Uses
Skin — Herbs used in topical preparations, or traditionally associated with soothing and caring for the skin. First aid — Herbs kept for simple topical household use — minor skin irritation, bites, bumps, and similar everyday needs.
Properties
Antipruritic — Helps soothe itching
Vulnerary — Supports healing of wounds or damaged tissue
Energetics
Cooling — Calms heat, irritation, or excess activity. Moistening — Adds or preserves moisture and soothes dryness.
Use topically only.
Similar herbs: Plantain, Fireweed, Self-Heal
Growing and using it
Life cycle
Annual that readily self-seeds.
Hardiness
Annual that returns by seed; USDA perennial hardiness does not apply.
Harvesting
Gather succulent stems and leaves repeatedly during active growth.
Grow in zone
Harvest stems/leaves — Gather stems/leaves in these monthsHarvest stems/leaves: JuneHarvest stems/leaves: JulyHarvest stems/leaves: AugustHarvest stems/leaves: September
Usually easiest to use from an existing naturally growing patch.
Gardening tools
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