Plant Profiles
Jewel Weed Herb
Impatiens capensis / Impatiens pallida
Latin Name
Impatiens capensis (Spotted Jewelweed)
Impatiens pallida (Yellow Jewelweed)
Herb Class/Action
• Antihistamine
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antipruritic
• Vulnerary (wound-healing)
• Astringent
Parts Used
Fresh aerial parts (leaves, stems, flowers)
Flavors
Mild, green, slightly sweet (used topically—rarely taken internally)
Energetics
Cooling, moistening, soothing
Traditional Benefits
Jewel weed is a traditional North American herb used by Indigenous peoples and folk herbalists to prevent and treat skin rashes—especially from poison ivy, stinging nettle, and insect bites. Often found growing near its irritant plant counterparts, it has earned the nickname “nature’s anti-itch remedy.”
A Natural Allergy Ally
Its natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties help counteract skin reactions to allergens and irritants. Applied fresh or as a salve, it reduces redness, swelling, and itching almost instantly.
A Herb for Seasonal Support
Best used in spring and summer, when exposure to poison ivy, bug bites, and heat rashes is common. Jewel weed cools and calms irritated skin and provides quick topical relief during high-allergen months.
How It Works
Jewel weed contains compounds like lawsone and flavonoids that soothe inflammation, reduce itching, and support skin healing. Its juicy, mucilaginous stem helps draw out irritants and calm histamine-driven reactions.
Best Ways to Use It
Tinctures/Extracts: Rare; not typically used internally. Best as a fresh juice or poultice.
Herbal teas: Not recommended for internal use.
Topical applications: Use as a fresh plant mash, infused oil, salve, or spray for poison ivy, eczema, insect bites, or contact dermatitis.
Fun Fact
Jewel weed gets its name from the way water beads and sparkles on its leaves, resembling tiny jewels in the sunlight. It also pops explosively when touched—hence the genus name Impatiens.
A Herb for Modern Use
Jewel weed is still one of nature’s best remedies for itchy, irritated skin. Whether in your hiking bag or home apothecary, it provides fast, gentle relief from rashes, bites, and environmental skin stress.