Related Terms

• Balsaminaceae (family), calcium oxalate, common jewelweed, Impatiens biflora, Impatiens pallida, pale jewelweed, pale touch-me-not, touch-me-not.

Background

• Jewelweed is a flowering plant from North America that can be found in roadside ditches and marshy areas.

• Jewelweed has been used for the treatment of poison ivy/oak. However, human studies do not support this use.

• There is currently not enough scientific evidence available in humans to support the use of jewelweed for any indication.

Scientific Evidence

Tradition/Theory

The below uses are based on tradition or scientific theories. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious and should be evaluated by a qualified health care professional.

• Bee stings, burns, constipation, diuretic (increase urine flow), fevers, fungal skin disorders, hair dye, hemorrhoids, jaundice, measles, nettle rash, rheumatism, stomach cramps, warts (removal).

Dosing

The below doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The below doses may not apply to all products. You should read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.

Adults (over 18 years old)

• There is no proven safe or effective dose for jewelweed in adults.

Children (under 18 years old)

• There is no proven safe or effective dose for jewelweed in children.

Safety

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.

Allergies

• Avoid in people with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to jewelweed (Impatiens biflora) or its constituents.

Side Effects and Warnings

• Jewelweed has been used as a food source as well as medicinally to treat a variety of ailments. However, due to a potential high mineral content, it is considered dangerous when consumed in excess amounts.

• Use cautiously if taking calcium supplements or if prone to kidney stones, as jewelweed may have high calcium oxalate content.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

• Jewelweed is not recommended in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to a lack of available scientific evidence. Jewelweed should be avoided due to reports of high mineral content, like calcium oxalate.

Interactions

Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.

Interactions with Drugs

• Not enough available scientific evidence.

Interactions with Herbs & Dietary Supplements

• Jewelweed may have high calcium oxalate content.

Author Information

• This information is based on a systematic review of scientific literature edited and peer-reviewed by contributors to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration (www.naturalstandard.com).

References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

1. Guin JD, Reynolds R. Jewelweed treatment of poison ivy dermatitis. Contact Dermatitis 1980;6(4):287-288. View Abstract

2. Long D, Ballentine NH, Marks JG Jr. Treatment of poison ivy/oak allergic contact dermatitis with an extract of jewelweed. Am J Contact Dermat. 1997;8(3):150-153. View Abstract

3. Zink BJ, Otten EJ, Rosentha M, et al. The effect of jewel week in preventing poison ivy. J Wilderness Medicine 1991;2:178-182.