Jewelweed is a flowering plant that is native to most of North America, including the mountainous regions of Mexico, and Greenland. It comes in two main varieties: orange jewelweed or Impatiens capensis and yellow jewelweed or Impatiens pallida. Each variety is aptly named according to the color of its jewel-like blossoms. Although a beautiful plant, people may be most familiar with its ability to treat a wide variety of skin issues.
A fully grown jewelweed plant can reach five feet (1.5 m) in height. The trumpet-shaped blossoms dangle off the plant’s stem like jewels hanging off of a bracelet or necklace. The blossoms typically bloom from May until October in woody areas. It is frequently found near river or creek beds and in areas that are quite shady.
Poison ivy, poison oak, and stinging nettle are well-known to cause rashes on the skin of almost anyone who comes in contact with them; however, applying a concoction made of jewelweed to the rash may help treat it. In addition, some people claim that it cures Athlete’s foot, eczema, ringworm, and warts. Others believe it heals burns, sores, bruises, and cuts.
Many herbalists use the sap and juices from the stem and leaves to treat skin issues. There are several methods of treatment. For example, the area of the skin that had contact with a poisonous plant can be rubbed directly with juice or sap from the jewelweed plant to prevent a rash. Another example includes creating a mixture by boiling its leaves in water, then freezing the concoction in ice cube trays to be used as needed. There are also soaps and sprays that are infused with its oils and used to treat skin irritations.
Non-medical uses include dyes, shampoos, and nail polish. The blossoms create rich colors and are used in some henna-like tattoos. Some color-enhancing shampoos use the dyes, as well. In addition, the ancient Chinese created the first nail polish using the dyes in the blossoms.
As a side note, herbalists have recommended that jewelweed not be mixed with alcohol. Some people have had skin reactions to mixtures that have an alcohol base. It should not be dried because it is rich in oils. As with any product, it is best to only apply it to a small portion of skin to ensure that the user is not allergic to the plant's sap or juices.