In the US the three most commonly accounted poisonous plants are poison ivy, oak and sumac. Nevada, Alaska and Hawaii are the only three states where these poisonous plants do not grow. They contain an oily substance called urushiol which sticks to everything and can remain potent for years!
About 85-percent of people are allergic to these plants and will suffer a painful dermatitis if they come into contact with them. Some people may experience a severe allergic reaction.
They are also extremely toxic if ingested or if burnt and the smoke inhaled.
Learn how to identify these plants in order to avoid contact.
Poison Ivy
Most commonly found in Eastern coastal states. Can be a vine or a shrub.
Leaves
- 3 leaves
- ⅓-inch to 3-inches.
- Solid green
- Smooth edged
- Pointed
- In Spring- yellow-green
- In Fall– yellow and red.
- May have white berries.
Poison Oak
Most commonly found in the Southern and rural Western states.
Grows as a shrub in Eastern states, as long vines or in tall clumps on the Pacific Coast.
Leaves
- Solid green
- More round than Poison Ivy
- in sets of three
- Underside lighter with hairs
- May have yellowish-white berries.
Poison Sumac
Less common than Poison Ivy or Poison Oak. Usually found in bogs and swamps.
- Tall shrub or small tree.
- Leaf stem has 7-13 leaflets.
- Black or dark brown spots.
- May have yellowish-white berries.
Effects
- Rash develops in 12-48 hours.
- Rash lasts 2-3 weeks
Treatment
- Wash copiously with soap and water.
- Apply Calamine Lotion at regular intervals.
- Or try Epsom Salts or bicarbonate of soda.
- Avoid touching and spreading the rash.
- Oral antihistamines may help, but do not apply topically.
Severe Reactions
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing.
- Large or multiple rashes or blisters.
- Rash on face or genitals.
- Swelling, especially of the eyelids.
Treatment
- Go to the Emergency room immediately.
- Take a steroid such as Prednisone.
