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Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, & Poison Sumac
Poison Ivy is more common in the Eastern United States, Poison Oak tends to be more common in the Western United States, and Poison Sumac is found in some of the wooded swamps of southern Ontario and southern Quebec. These plants contain a substance called urushiol, (you-ROO-she-ol), in their sap. Urushiol is a colorless or slightly yellow oil that oozes from any cut, or crushed part of the plant, including the stems and leaves. This toxic oil is responsible for the rash that develops from contact with these plants. The first symptom of poisoning is a severe itching of the skin. Later, a red inflammation and a blistering of the skin occurs. In severe cases, oozing sores develop. The rash spreads by the poisonous sap, not as the result of contamination from sores. Although extremely irritating, most cases disappear in a week or 10 days. In the meantime, relief may be found through the application of medication available in most drugstores. However, severe rashes, especially those covering large areas or accompanied by above-normal body temperatures, should be examined by a physician. Medical treatment is most effective if applied before the oozing sores appear.
Poison Ivy
Other names
- Three-leaved ivy, poison creeper, climbing sumac, poison oak, markweed, picry, and mercury.
Location
- Woods; dry soil; along fences, paths, and roadways.
Characteristics
Appearance
- Shape: In form of woody vines, trailing shurbs or erect shrubs.
- Height: 6 to 30 feet.
- Leaves: Three leaflets.
- Flowers: Growing in clusters from the side of the stem above a leaf.
- Fruit: White and waxy appearance covered with fine hair.
Poison Oak
Other names
- Oakleaf ivy or oakleaf poison ivy.
Location
- Along roadsides, and uncultivated land.
Characteristics
Appearance
- Shape: In form of low-growing shrub.
- Height: 25 to 30 feet in extending.
- Leaves: Three leaflets.
- Flowers: Greenish white color.
- Fruit: White berrylike appearance.
Poison Sumac
Other names
- Swamp sumac, poison elder, poison ash, poison dogwood, thunderwood.
Location
- Swamps and bogs.
Characteristics
Appearance
- Shape: In form of woody shrubs or small trees.
Height: 5 to 25 feet tall.
- Leaves: 7 to 13 leaflets arranged in pairs.
- Flowers: Yellowish green color.
- Fruit: Ivory white or green color.
Treatment
- Clothing may be contaminated from exposure to these poisonous plants. Wash articles of clothing separately if you suspect contact. Clean including beddings or upholstery suspected of contact from your clothing.
- Pets may have been exposed to urishiol, and could spread it by their fur. Bathe animals well to prevent any spread of infection.
- Wear protective clothing if you might come in contact with any of these poisonous plants. Shower well immediately after possible exposure.
- A 10% water solution of potassium permanganate is effective if applied within 5 to 10 minutes after exposure. You can find that solution at a drug store, along with ointments and lotions for prevention.
- Wash infected skin as soon as possible with cold water to minimize the severity of the rash and prevent the spread of the sap to uninfected parts of the body. Unfortunately, your skin absorbs the active compounds in the sap within the first 3 minutes, and you cannot prevent the dermatitis without medical treatment. Soap and water are superior to water alone in removing the sap, but they also temporarily remove a natural protective layer that helps keep the active compounds from being absorbed through the skin.
- Mild poisoning usually subside within a few days. If the inflamation is severe or extensive, contact your physician immediately!
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