Poison ivy type plants. Identifying and Avoiding Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac: A Comprehensive Guide

13.02.202106.06.2021 by alexxlab

How to recognize poison ivy, oak, and sumac plants. What are the key characteristics of these poisonous plants. How to distinguish them from harmless look-alikes. What to do if you come into contact with these plants.

Содержание

The Prevalence and Impact of Poison Ivy

Poison ivy is a widespread plant that causes allergic reactions in millions of Americans each year. Understanding its characteristics and how to identify it is crucial for outdoor enthusiasts and gardeners alike. Did you know that poison ivy affects up to 50 million Americans annually? This staggering statistic underscores the importance of being able to recognize and avoid this troublesome plant.

Poison ivy can be found in various environments, from wooded trails to backyard gardens. Its ability to blend in with surrounding vegetation makes it particularly challenging to spot. The plant’s versatility in growing patterns – climbing trees, spreading on the ground, or appearing as small shrubs – further complicates identification efforts.

Identifying Poison Ivy: Key Characteristics

Recognizing poison ivy is the first step in avoiding contact with this irritating plant. Here are the primary features to look for:

Leaves: The most distinctive feature is the arrangement of leaves in groups of three leaflets.
Leaf Stem: The middle leaflet has a longer stem compared to the side leaflets.
Leaf Pattern: Leaflets follow an alternating pattern on the stem.
Stem Color: Often, the stem connecting the leaflets has a reddish hue.
Vine Appearance: Poison ivy vines are typically thick and covered with hair-like structures.
Berries: Small, opaque berries that are white or yellowish in color may be present.

Is the “leaves of three, let it be” rule always reliable? While this adage is a good starting point, it’s important to note that other harmless plants also have leaves in groups of three. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider all characteristics collectively when identifying poison ivy.

Understanding Urushiol: The Culprit Behind the Rash

The source of poison ivy’s irritating effects is an oil called urushiol. This compound is present in all parts of the plant and can cause an allergic reaction when it comes into contact with skin. Even minimal damage to the plant can release this oil, making it easy to unknowingly expose yourself.

How long does it take for a poison ivy rash to appear? Typically, the rash develops 12 to 72 hours after exposure to urushiol. This delayed reaction can sometimes make it difficult to pinpoint the exact time and place of contact.

Poison Ivy Look-Alikes: Avoiding Misidentification

Several plants bear a resemblance to poison ivy, which can lead to confusion and unnecessary concern. Two common look-alikes are Virginia creeper and boxelder. Understanding the differences can help prevent misidentification:

Virginia Creeper

Leaves: Has five leaflets per leaf, unlike poison ivy’s three.
Vine: Thick like poison ivy, but covered in light-colored tendrils instead of hair.
Berries: Blue-black in color, contrasting with poison ivy’s white or yellowish berries.

Boxelder

Leaves: Young seedlings may have three leaflets, but mature leaves have three to seven leaflets.
Leaf Arrangement: Leaflets are arranged opposite each other on the stem, not alternately like poison ivy.
Fall Color: Displays yellow foliage in autumn.
Berries: Does not produce berries.

Can Virginia creeper cause a rash similar to poison ivy? While Virginia creeper is generally considered non-toxic, some people may experience skin irritation upon contact due to the presence of oxalate crystals in the plant sap. However, this reaction is typically milder and less common than the allergic response to poison ivy.

Other Poisonous Plants: Poison Oak and Poison Sumac

While poison ivy is the most common irritant plant in many areas, it’s important to be aware of its relatives: poison oak and poison sumac. These plants can also cause similar allergic reactions and are found in various regions of the United States.

Poison Oak

Poison oak is less common than poison ivy in many areas but can be found in certain regions, such as eastern Oklahoma. Its appearance is similar to poison ivy, leading many people to use the terms interchangeably. Key characteristics of poison oak include:

Leaves: Typically in groups of three, like poison ivy.
Leaf Shape: Often more lobed or scalloped than poison ivy leaves, resembling oak leaves.
Growth Pattern: Can grow as a shrub or vine.

Poison Sumac

Poison sumac is less widespread than poison ivy or oak but can be found in wetland areas, particularly in the southeastern United States. Unlike its relatives, poison sumac has distinct characteristics:

Growth Form: Appears as a small tree or tall shrub, not a vine.
Leaves: Compound leaves with 7-13 leaflets arranged in pairs with a single leaflet at the end.
Habitat: Thrives in wet, swampy areas.

Are the rashes caused by poison oak and poison sumac different from poison ivy rash? While the appearance of the plants differs, the rashes caused by poison oak and poison sumac are essentially identical to those caused by poison ivy. This is because all three plants contain the same irritant oil, urushiol.

Treatment and Management of Poison Ivy Rash

If you come into contact with poison ivy, oak, or sumac, prompt action can help minimize the severity of the allergic reaction. Here are some steps to take:

Wash the affected area thoroughly with lukewarm, soapy water as soon as possible.
Apply cool, wet compresses to the affected area for 15-30 minutes several times a day.
Use over-the-counter treatments such as calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream to relieve itching.
Take oral antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) to reduce itching and aid sleep.
Soak in a cool bath containing an oatmeal-based product to soothe the skin.

When should you seek medical attention for a poison ivy rash? If you experience severe swelling, widespread rash, or if the rash affects sensitive areas like your face or genitals, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider. Additionally, if you develop signs of infection, such as increased pain, swelling, or warmth in the affected area, medical attention is necessary.

Prevention Strategies: Minimizing Risk of Exposure

Preventing contact with poison ivy and its relatives is the best way to avoid the uncomfortable rash. Here are some strategies to minimize your risk:

Learn to identify poison ivy, oak, and sumac in your local area.
Wear protective clothing, including long sleeves and pants, when venturing into areas where these plants may be present.
Use barrier creams or lotions designed to block urushiol oil if you know you’ll be in high-risk areas.
Wash all clothing and equipment that may have come into contact with the plants after outdoor activities.
Keep pets from running through areas with poison ivy, as they can carry the oil on their fur.

Can you become immune to poison ivy over time? While repeated exposure to poison ivy doesn’t typically lead to immunity, some individuals may become less sensitive over time. However, it’s also possible for sensitivity to increase with repeated exposures, so it’s always best to avoid contact whenever possible.

Ecological Role and Management of Poison Ivy

Despite its reputation as a nuisance plant, poison ivy plays a role in local ecosystems. The berries provide food for birds, and the plant offers cover for small animals. However, in areas where human activity is frequent, management may be necessary.

If you need to remove poison ivy from your property, consider these guidelines:

Never burn poison ivy, as the smoke can carry urushiol and cause severe respiratory problems if inhaled.
Wear protective clothing, including gloves, when handling the plant.
Use herbicides cautiously and according to label instructions, as they can harm other plants and wildlife.
Dispose of removed plants carefully, sealing them in plastic bags for disposal.

Is there an environmentally friendly way to control poison ivy? While chemical herbicides are often used, some eco-friendly alternatives exist. These include smothering the plants with cardboard or thick layers of mulch, or repeatedly cutting the plants to the ground to exhaust their energy reserves. However, these methods require persistence and may take longer to be effective.

Understanding the characteristics, risks, and management of poison ivy and its relatives is crucial for anyone who spends time outdoors. By learning to identify these plants and taking appropriate precautions, you can minimize the risk of uncomfortable rashes and enjoy nature safely. Remember, when in doubt about a plant’s identity, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and avoid contact. Stay informed, stay prepared, and enjoy your outdoor adventures with confidence.

Know Your Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac

Whether you’re walking a trail in the woods, trimming brush in your backyard, or pitching a tent in one of Oklahoma’s best campgrounds, you may come across poison ivy this summer – and before you know it, you might be sporting a red, itchy rash. Poison ivy is the most common allergic reaction in the U.S. and affects as many as 50 million Americans each year.

The best way to avoid poison ivy is to recognize it when you see it. This poison vine can be hard to spot because it not only climbs trees, it can also grow on the ground and can blend in with normal foliage. Here’s how to identify poison ivy, oak and sumac so you can avoid all of them!

How to identify poison ivy

The poisonous part of poison ivy is actually an oil called urushiol found inside the plant. It can become exposed on any plant that has been damaged, bruised, cut or crushed. Even the smallest amount of damage to the plant, such as walking through a patch, can cause the oil to seep out.

A good rule of thumb is to remember the famous saying, “Leaflets of three, let it be.” Poison ivy leaves are compound leaves, meaning each leaf is composed of three leaflets. In each set of leaflets, the middle leaflet has a longer stem than the two side leaflets. Often, a poison ivy leaf has a reddish stem, and the leaflets follow a distinctive, alternating pattern.

Be sure and check the vine. Thick, hairy vines are a hallmark of poison ivy plants.

Finally, look for berries. Poison ivy vines will sprout small, opaque, white or yellowish berries that look like tiny pumpkins.

Poison ivy look-alikes

These look-alikes are often mistaken for poison ivy, but there are notable differences.

Virginia creeper – Virginia creeper ivy is a well-known poison ivy look-alike. While both plants are vines, they can be distinguished by their leaves. Poison ivy has three leaflets while Virginia creeper has five.

Virginia creeper vines are thick like poison ivy vines, but will be covered in light-colored tendrils rather than rough hair. The berries of a Virginia creeper are blue-black, not opaque white or yellowish like poison ivy berries.

Boxelder – Boxelder is in the maple family. Young seedlings of the boxelder tree superficially resemble poison ivy, with three leaflets, but boxelder seedlings grow to become leaves with three to seven leaflets. Also, boxelder leaflets are arranged on the stem opposite from each other, not alternatively like poison ivy.

Boxelder has yellow fall color, lacks the hairy aerial rootlets of poison ivy and does not have berries.

Other poisonous plants in Oklahoma

Unfortunately, besides poison ivy, you can also find poison oak and poison sumac plants in areas of Oklahoma.

In most of the state, you will find eastern poison ivy, as it’s the most common.
In eastern Oklahoma, Atlantic poison oak is commonly found.
Poison sumac is only found at the very edge of the southeastern border of Oklahoma.

Feeling a little confused about the three? Here’s the difference:

Poison ivy – This vine is found on the ground, climbing on trees, fences, and walls, and can also be found in small shrubs. Poison ivy always comes with three leaves and never has thorns or sharp or scalloped edges.

Poison oak – Poison oak is not as common as poison ivy in Oklahoma. However, it is hard to tell the difference between the two and most people use the term ivy and oak interchangeably.

Poison sumac – You may only run into poison sumac if you are traveling south. Poison sumac looks a lot different than poison ivy, as its only form is a small tree. Poison sumac thrives in wetland areas.

How to treat poison ivy

The itchy rash caused by poison ivy often does not appear until 12 to 72 hours after you’ve been exposed to the oil.

If you break out into a serious rash or if you experience swelling or blistering with the rash, it’s best to visit your health care provider right away.

If your rash is minor, here are some tips from the American Academy of Dermatology.

Wash the affected areas with soapy, lukewarm water.
Place cool, wet compresses on the affected area for 15 to 30 minutes several times a day.
Soak in a cool-water bath containing an oatmeal-based bath product such as Aveeno.
Apply an over-the-counter corticosteroid cream for the first few days.
Apply calamine lotion.
Take oral antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl, others), which may also help you sleep better.
Wash any belongings that might have come into contact with the ivy to prevent further outbreaks.

Hopefully, you can help share your new knowledge of poison ivy in Oklahoma and save someone you love from an itchy, uncomfortable rash. Want more Oklahoma outdoor tips? Read our articles about Snakes in Oklahoma and Hiking Safety Tips to Enjoy the Great Outdoors.

Subscribe to the INTEGRIS Health On Your Health blog

Subscribe for regular emails full of useful and interesting Oklahoma-centric health and wellness info, from the doctors and health experts at INTEGRIS Health.

Poison Oak, Treatment, Symptoms, Relief, Prevention

What is poison ivy?

Poison ivy is a common poisonous plant that causes an itchy skin rash. Other rash-inducing poisonous plants include poison oak and poison sumac. These plants produce an oily sap called urushiol that brings on an irritating, itchy allergic reaction. When you touch a poisonous plant or an object that’s been in contact with a plant, you develop an itchy rash. This rash is a form of allergic contact dermatitis.

How common is a poison ivy rash?

Up to 90% of people who come into contact with poison ivy oil develop an itchy rash. You don’t have to be exposed to much: 50 micrograms of urushiol — an amount smaller than a grain of salt — is enough to cause a reaction.

Who might get a poison ivy rash?

Nearly everyone who touches urushiol gets a poison ivy rash. You’re more likely to come into contact with a poisonous plant if you have one of these jobs or hobbies:

Camper or hiker.
Farmer or gardener.
Groundskeeper or landscaper.
Forestry worker.
Forest firefighter.
House painter.
Roofer.

What do poisonous plants look like?

Poisonous plants grow all over the continental United States. Each type has a distinctive appearance:

Poison ivy: Poison ivy is most known for its leaves. Each leaf has three leaflets. A popular saying is, “Leaves of three, let them be.” Poison ivy grows as a shrub and a vine. Its summer-green leaves turn reddish in the spring and yellow, orange or red in the fall. A poison ivy shrub may have white berries.
Poison oak: The leaves have three leaflets like poison ivy, but with rounded tips. The leaves’ undersides are fuzzy and lighter in color than the top. Poison oak grows as a shrub. It’s most common in the western United States. The shrub sometimes has white or yellow berries.
Poison sumac: This tall shrub or small tree has drooping clusters of green berries. (Nonpoisonous sumacs have red, upright berries. Contact with nonpoisonous sumacs won’t cause an allergic rash.) Each leaf has clusters of seven to 13 smooth leaflets arranged in pairs. Poison sumac thrives in wet, swampy regions.

What causes a poison ivy rash?

Poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac produce an oil called urushiol. Almost everyone is allergic to this oil. When your skin touches the oil, an allergic reaction occurs. The itchy rash that develops is a type of allergic contact dermatitis.

What are the symptoms of a poison ivy rash?

Urushiol oil causes the same allergic reaction — an itchy skin rash — no matter what poisonous plant you touch. Depending on your skin’s sensitivity, a rash may develop within a few hours or days after initial contact. Symptoms include:

Blisters.
Itchy skin rash.
Redness and swelling.

How is a poison ivy rash diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will look at the rash, assess your symptoms and ask questions to determine if you could have encountered a poisonous plant. Other allergens and irritants besides poisonous plants can cause contact dermatitis or an itchy rash. If you haven’t been outdoors or in contact with plants, your healthcare provider will want to rule out other skin conditions or causes.

How is a poison ivy rash managed or treated?

Rashes from poisonous plants usually go away within a week or two. In the meantime, these over-the-counter medications can relieve the itchy rash:

Anti-itch creams, including calamine lotion (Caladryl®) and hydrocortisone creams (Cortizone®).
Antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl®).
Colloidal oatmeal baths (Aveeno®) and cold compresses to soothe itching.

Your healthcare provider may prescribe an oral steroid, such as prednisone, if the rash becomes more severe or the rash forms on the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, mouth or genitals.

What are the complications of poison ivy exposure?

Some situations increase your risk of problems if you’re exposed to poison ivy, poison oak or poison sumac. These factors include:

Inhaling smoke: When poisonous plants burn, they release urushiol into the air. You may develop a rash inside of your nasal passages, mouth and throat from inhaling the smoke. Oil in the air also affects the lungs and can cause serious breathing problems.
Scratching: It’s hard not to scratch this itchy rash. But you can get an infection if you scratch until skin bleeds. Bacteria from under your fingernails can get inside any open wound.

Can a poison ivy rash spread to other parts of the body?

No. It might look like a rash is spreading, but you’re actually developing new rashes on areas of skin that came into contact with urushiol oil. You might have touched a plant in some areas and not even realized it — for example, if a backpack strap brushed against plants and then touched your bare shoulder. Some rashes take longer to develop. The extent of the rash depends on your skin sensitivity and how much oil you touched.

Is a poison ivy rash contagious?

You can’t get a poison ivy rash by touching another person’s rash. But you could develop a rash if you touch the oil on another person’s body or clothes. You can also come in contact with the oil by touching your pet’s fur or a contaminated item like a gardening tool or camping gear.

How can I prevent a poison ivy rash?

The best way to avoid developing this itchy rash is by learning what poisonous plants look like so you can avoid them.

If you think you’ve come in contact with a poisonous plant, you can:

Apply isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol to exposed body parts, gardening tools or other contaminated items to strip away the oil.
Scrub under your fingernails with a brush.
Use dishwashing soap and cool water to wash hands that have touched a poisonous plant.
Wash clothes after being outdoors.
Wear long sleeves, pants and gloves when doing yard work, gardening, farming or hiking.
Wear rubber gloves while bathing pets that have been in contact with poisonous plants.

What is the prognosis (outlook) for people with a poison ivy rash?

Most poison plant rashes cause mild (but annoying) symptoms that go away within a week or two. Rarely, a skin rash lasts for longer than a month. Try not to scratch. Scratching can break open skin and cause an infection.

When should I call the doctor?

Reach out to your healthcare provider if you have a poison plant rash and you experience:

Rash covering more than a quarter of your body.
Rash on the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, mouth or genitals.
Red streaks, fever or other signs of infection.
Signs of anaphylaxis, including breathing difficulties, hives and swelling.

What questions should I ask my doctor?

If you have a poison plant rash, you may want to ask your healthcare provider:

Do I need any testing to confirm the rash is from a poisonous plant?
How can I avoid getting this rash again?
How can I keep my family members from getting this rash?
What treatments can I use to reduce itching?
How long will the rash last?
Should I look out for signs of complications?

A note from Cleveland Clinic

It’s hard not to scratch an itchy poison ivy rash. Fortunately, most rashes clear up with minimal treatment within a week. Ask your healthcare provider for suggestions to stop the itch. And remember, don’t scratch! You might temporarily feel better, but scratching can introduce bacteria into the skin and cause an infection.

Poison Ivy, Poison Oak and Similar Plant Identification

Published Oct. 2020|Id: HLA-6459

By
Brooklyn Evans, Pam Sharp, Shelley Mitchell, Justin Quetone Moss

“Leaves of three let it be”. From that rhyme, you would think identifying poison ivy
would be simple, but that isn’t necessarily the case. Knowing how to recognize poison
ivy, oak and sumac can save you from a miserable red itchy rash. All three of these
closely related plants contain an irritating, oily sap called urushiol. Urushiol causes
many people to break out in a rash when it comes in contact with their skin. Being
able to identify these plants is beneficial considering there are many plants that
look similar, but are harmless. This Fact Sheet is to help inform and educate the
general public on how to identify poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac so they
can be avoided.

Poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) is located throughout the lower 48 states and grows in a
variety of conditions, although it is most abundant along forest edges and in open
forests with moderate sunlight. In Oklahoma, poison ivy is distributed across most
of the state but is less abundant in the southwest and panhandle areas of the state.
Poison oak (Toxicodendron toxicarium) is mostly in coastal states in the east and
west and not as common in the central region. Poison oak does occur in scattered locations across Oklahoma but is generally less abundant
than poison ivy. Poison sumac (Toxicodendron vernix) is mainly found in the eastern and southeastern parts of the
U.S. because it prefers to grow in wet, forested areas. It does not occur in Oklahoma
except for few isolated spots along the Red River.

Figure 1. Poison ivy in the summer. This poison ivy has lobed edge leaflets. Photo courtesy
of David Hillock.

Figure 2. Poison ivy in the autumn. It has smooth-edged leaflets. Photo courtesy of www.poison-ivy.org

Poison ivy leaves are compound and consists of three individual leaflets (Figure 1).
The leaves can vary from smooth to being lobed (looking like a pair of mittens) or
toothed (pointed). Poison oak leaves are usually in clusters of three leaflets. Its
leaves are lobed or deeply toothed, with rounder edges (Figure 3). Just as leaf shape
varies, so do the colors of leaves on each plant. Poison ivy leaves start out a shiny
green in the spring and become a dull green during the summer. In the autumn, poison
ivy leaves turn yellow or scarlet (Figure 2). Poison oak is green throughout the spring
and summer and become yellow with brown undertones in the fall (Figure 4).

Figure 3. Poison oak in the spring/summer with lobed edge leaflets. Photo courtesy of Bailey Lockhart

Figure 4. Poison oak in the autumn. Photo credit Linda Tanner Flickr

Flowers of poison ivy and oak are greenish yellow appearing in panicles from the leaf
axils on the stem. Fruit of poison ivy and oak are grayish-white to creamy white and
have ridges that make it look like a tiny pumpkin.

There are many common plants people confuse with poison ivy and poison oak. The common
ones in Oklahoma are Virginia creeper, fragrant sumac, skunkbush sumac and boxelder.

Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) leaves are compound and contain five leaflets, (Figure
5) though leaves with three leaflets can sometimes be present. Virginia creeper looks
like it is giving you a “high five” so it is easier to identify amongst the similar-looking
plants. Each leaflet has toothed (pointed) edges, which is makes it look more similar
to poison ivy than poison oak or sumac. Furthermore, Virginia creeper, like poison
ivy is red when it first emerges, but then turn green as it matures. During the autumn,
it turns back to red or maroon color. It can cause a mild rash in some individuals,
but usually not like the rash that poison ivy/oak causes.

Figure 5. Virginia creeper has toothed edge leaflets. Photo courtesy of Randy Evans

Fragrant sumac (Rhus aromatica) has trifoliate-toothed leaves that are a green-blue shade (Figure
6). During the autumn, the leaf color changes to shades of red and purple. Fragrant
sumac, unlike poison oak, produces red, hairy fruits (Figure 7) on female plants;
this is a good identifying clue. Poison ivy and oak have whitish or yellowish berries.
Sumac also tends to form dense compact mottes (grove of trees) rather than having
the more open structure of poison oak.

Figure 6. Fragrant Sumac has toothed edge leaflets. Photo courtesy of David Hillock

Figure 7. Fragrant sumac with berries. It has tooth-edged leaflets. Photo courtesy of David Hillock

Skunkbush sumac (Rhus trilobata) looks very similar to fragrant sumac. Leaves are compound and the
leaflets are waxy and soft-textured, and grow in groups of three (Figure 8). The leaves
are green during the summer and spring, then turn a bright red or orange during the
autumn. The fruit of skunkbush also are red to orange and hairy, which distinguishes
sumacs from poison ivy and oak, which has whitish or yellowish berries.

Figure 8. Skunkbush sumac has lobed edge leaflets. Photo courtesy of Patrick J. Alexander,
hosted by the USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

Boxelder (Acer negundo) leaves are compound and consists of three to five toothed leaflets
(Figure 9). The leaves are in opposite pairs and are light green in the summer with
little color variation in the fall. Young boxelder can be mistaken for poison ivy,
but the difference between the two is that boxelder leaves are opposite, while poison
ivy leaves are alternating.

Figure 9. Boxelder has toothed edge leaves. Photo courtesy of Randy Evans

Control

There are several different methods to control poison ivy, oak and sumac. Lawnmowers
or weed eaters can remove the aboveground portion of the plant, but this is not a
permanent solution as they will resprout from the root. The urushiol oil from the
plants will likely adhere to equipment and clothing. Keep in mind the proper attire
that should be worn with potential exposure to the urushiol oil. This includes eye
protection, gloves, long pants and long sleeves. For smaller gardens or flower beds,
hand pulling works but it is best done when the seedling is still small. Be sure to
wear disposable gloves to keep the oils off your skin and note that even the stems
and roots contain the oils. A simple method that limits contact with the plant when
pulling it by hand is using a plastic bag over your hand. With your hand in the bag,
grab the plant and pull it out of the ground; while still holding onto the plant pull
your hand out of the bag; the plant is now in the bag and you never had to touch it.
Poison ivy will grow up into trees and the stem can be cut at ground level with a
hatchet or saw. Herbicides are the only effective way to permanently kill poison ivy
or oak. Several herbicides are effective: Glyphosate and triclopyr are two of the
more common effective herbicides. Both can be applied as foliar application to actively
growing plants. Alternatively, the cut stem can be treated anytime during the year
except early spring during sap flow. Following herbicide directions precisely is critical
to ensure the safety of yourself and other plants surrounding the poison ivy. Hiring
a professional can give you peace of mind and is always an option if you do not feel
comfortable handling the herbicides yourself. Burning poison ivy or oak is not recommend
because the urushiol oil is still active in smoke and can cause severe eye, nose and
lung irritation if breathed.

If you come in contact with any poison ivy, oak or sumac, steps can be taken to help
control or even prevent the spreading of the developing rash. Consult a physician
first and follow their professional advice if you get a rash.

To help prevent a reaction, immediately wash the skin where urushiol oil is suspected.
Use rubbing alcohol, dishwashing liquid or a special soap made for use after contact
with poison ivy or oak. Do not scrub the area when washing, because that can cause
the oil to spread further onto more skin. Rinse thoroughly with cool water. The itchy
rash can be relieved by using topical lotions and creams such as hydrocortisone or
calamine lotions. Cool compresses can help to reduce itching and inflammation.

References

Brown, Diane. “Identifying poison ivy isn’t always easy to do.” Fact Sheet. Michigan State University. East Lansing, MI, 26 July. 2016. Web. 5 Jun.
2020.
“Home Grown Facts.” Fact Sheet. Cornell Cooperative Extension of Oneida County. Oriskany,
NY. n.d. Web. 10 Jun. 2020
Beaulieu, David. “Poison Ivy Plant Profile, Toxicity and Special Consideration.” Fact Sheet. 30 Jan. 2020.
Lerner, B. Rosie. Legleiter.Travis. “Poison Ivy.” HO-218-W. Consumer Horticulture,
Purdue Extension. Oct. 2015. Web. 18 Jun. 2020
“Poison Ivy: An Identification and Control Guide”, Chuck Otte and Kansas State University.
1 Jan. 2020. Web. 21 Jun. 2020

Was this information helpful?

YESNO

Recognizing Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac

The old saying goes: “Leaves of three, let them be.” Poison ivy, oak and sumac are three plants that carry the same poison — urushiol , a colorless, odorless oil that causes an itchy, irritating rash. While they differ in appearance, all of the plants grow white, cream or yellow berries in the fall.

Here is how you can tell the plants apart:

Poison ivy (A) usually has three broad, tear-shaped leaves. It can grow as a climbing or low-spreading vine that sprawls through grass. It is found everywhere in the United States except Alaska and Hawaii. It often grows along rivers, lake fronts and ocean beaches.

Poison oak (B) has leaves that look like oak leaves and grows as a vine or a shrub. The plant can have three or more leaflets per group. It is most common in the western United States.

Poison sumac (C) has seven to 13 leaflets per stem that are characterized by smooth surfaces and pointed tips. It is most often found in wooded, moist areas of the southern United States.

Symptoms

You can develop a rash by touching poison ivy, oak or sumac — and by transfer of the oil from someone or something (such as a dog or clothes) that has come in contact with the poison. The rash is very itchy and uncomfortable, but it is not contagious. Touching the skin of an affected individual will not cause you to get the rash, as long as the oil has been washed off.

The body’s allergic response to the plant toxins may not be apparent for several days and differs in severity from person to person. The skin will become red and swollen, and then blisters will appear. After a few days, the blisters will become crusty and start to flake off. Healing time is anywhere between one and two weeks.

Treatment

After contact with poison ivy, oak or sumac, immediately wash the exposed areas thoroughly with soap and water. Initially, hosing off outside or showering is preferred over a bath to minimize contact of the oil with other parts of the body.

It is very important to wash all clothes and shoes immediately after exposure because the oils can remain on them and cause reinfection.

If a rash develops, there are several things you can try to relieve the itching:

Take a bath with colloidal oatmeal. Colloidal oatmeal is oatmeal ground to a powder so that it can evenly disperse in water. You can buy it from the drug store or make your own by grinding up dry oatmeal in a blender.
Wet a washcloth with warm water and place it on the affected area.
Apply calamine lotion to the affected area.
Consider a steroid cream (hydrocortisone) if itching persists. Be careful not to get it in your child’s eyes and mouth.
Consider oral antihistamines (diphenhydramine), especially if itching interferes with sleep. Consult your pediatrician if dosing is not listed on the package for your child’s age/weight.

It’s important to try to keep the itching under control because lots of scratching can increase damage to the skin and increase your child’s risk of developing a skin infection.

Call your doctor if your child has a rash on the eyes, mouth or genitals. Seek immediate medical attention for severe reactions, especially those resulting in swollen eyes or face and/or difficulty swallowing or breathing. Your child may need oral or intravenous steroids (prednisone) and possibly a medication (epinephrine) to treat severe allergic reactions.

Most allergic reactions will clear up in 14 to 21 days. However, if the symptoms persist or worsen, contact your child’s pediatrician for further treatment.

Prevention

Avoid areas where you know the plants live.
Wear long sleeves and long pants if exploring wooded areas where you might find one of the plants.
Show your children pictures of the plants so they learn what they look like.
Let your children know that they should avoid touching the plants.
Don’t burn the plants – urushiol can be released in the air and can cause breathing problems in addition to skin reactions.

Visit The Poison Control Center’s website to learn more about poison ivy, oak and sumac, and other plants that irritate.

Poison Ivy Rash in Children

What is poison ivy rash?

Poison ivy rash is an allergic reaction to poison ivy. Poison ivy is very common plant in the U.S. It is similar to two other plants called poison oak and poison sumac. The plants cause allergic dermatitis. This means the body’s immune system releases certain chemicals that cause a skin reaction. Most children are allergic to poison ivy.

What causes poison ivy rash in a child?

Poison ivy has oil called urushiol. This oil causes the allergic skin reaction. The oil is easily wiped from the plants to other objects. These include clothes, toys, and pets. Smoke from a burning plant can also contain the oil.

Which children are at risk for poison ivy rash?

Children who live near the plants are at risk for the skin reaction. There are different types of these plants around the country. They are:

Poison ivy. This is a ground or climbing vine with leaves grouped in threes in most of the U.S. Another type grows as a shrub in the Western U.S.
Poison oak. This is a ground or climbing vine or shrub with leaves grouped in threes. One type grows on the West coast and another type grows mostly in the Southeast.
Poison sumac. This is a shrub or small tree with groups of several leaves arranged in pairs. It grows in very wet areas.

What are the symptoms of poison ivy rash in a child?

Your child may have symptoms within hours or days after coming in contact with poison ivy. The symptoms include:

Small bumps where the plant oil touched the skin that quickly turn into blisters
Severe itching
Redness and swelling
Blisters that break, ooze fluid, and crust over. The fluid in the blisters doesn’t spread the rash.

The symptoms of poison ivy rash can be like other health conditions. Make sure your child sees his or her healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

How is poison ivy rash diagnosed in a child?

The healthcare provider will ask about your child’s symptoms and health history. He or she will give your child a physical exam.

How is poison ivy rash treated in a child?

Your child’s rash may be treated with over-the counter medicines. You can also help ease your child’s symptoms with the following:

Bathing your child in water with colloidal oatmeal
Applying cool, wet cloths (compresses)
Using calamine lotion or corticosteroid cream on the skin
Giving your child diphenhydramine liquid by mouth, if itching is making it hard for your child to sleep

Call the healthcare provider if your child:

Inhaled smoke from a burning poison ivy plant
Has the rash on his or her face
Has a severe rash
Has a rash on a large part of his or her body

In these cases, your child’s healthcare provider may prescribe a prescription medicine such as:

Corticosteroid cream
Corticosteroid pills or liquid
Corticosteroid shot (injection)

What are the possible complications of poison ivy rash in a child?

The rash may become infected with bacteria.

What can I do to prevent poison ivy rash in my child?

A poison ivy rash can be prevented by avoiding contact with the plant. Creams containing bentoquatum may be used as a barrier on the skin if contact with the plant is likely.

The rash can’t spread from one person to another. But oil on your child’s skin can spread to another person who may then get the rash. To help prevent a poison ivy rash:

Teach all family members to recognize the plants and stay away from them.
Make sure your child wears pants, long sleeves, and shoes and socks when in areas where the plants grow.
Wash your child’s clothes and shoes right after he or she has been in areas where the plants grow.
Make sure your child doesn’t touch a pet that might have been in contact with the plants. Wash your pet after is has contact with the plant.
Make sure your child showers or bathes with soap and warm water if he or she has been in an area where the plants grow. To remove all plant oil, help your child wash all areas of his or her body very well.

When should I call my child’s healthcare provider?

Call the healthcare provider if your child has:

Symptoms not relieved by over-the-counter medicine
Rash on his or her face
Severe rash
Rash that covers a lot of your child’s body
Signs of a skin infection, such as increased redness, warmth, swelling, or fluid

Key points about poison ivy rash in children

Poison ivy, oak, and sumac cause an allergic skin reaction. The reaction is caused by oil from the plant.
Avoiding contact with the poison ivy plant is the best prevention.
Washing the skin after touching the plant can prevent a rash.
The fluid from the blisters doesn’t make poison ivy spread. But oil on the skin can cause a rash if wiped on another person.
In most cases, poison ivy rash can be treated at home.
A poison ivy rash may be treated with soothing products, calamine lotion, or corticosteroids creams, pills, liquids, or injections.

Next steps

Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your child’s healthcare provider:

Know the reason for the visit and what you want to happen.
Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your provider gives you for your child.
Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed and how it will help your child. Also know what the side effects are.
Ask if your child’s condition can be treated in other ways.
Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean.
Know what to expect if your child does not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.
If your child has a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.
Know how you can contact your child’s provider after office hours. This is important if your child becomes ill and you have questions or need advice.

Be aware of poison ivy and other rash-producing plants

Itching to get outdoors? Hikers and other outdoor recreationists need to educate themselves about poison ivy and other similar species to avoid developing the classic itchy skin rash associated with these plants.

After a long Michigan winter, many are anxious to get outdoors and enjoy a walk or hike through the fields and forests of Michigan. But as any avid outdoors-person will tell you, there are certain plants (poison ivy and others) that people should avoid touching with their bare skin if they hope to avoid developing the annoying, itchy rash associated with these plants.

While a relatively new invasive plant known as “giant hogweed” (Heracleum mantegazzianum) has recently made the news in Michigan because of the severe reactions that people can have to the sap of this plant,^{such as skin lesions and potentially long-term blindness, other “poisonous” plants such as poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) are more commonly found. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resource Conservation Service’s PLANTS Database, poison ivy can be found in almost every county of Michigan.}

Consequently, if you do not already know the old adage “It if has leaves of three – let it be!” then learn how to identify poison ivy in order to avoid coming in contact with it. For starters, the poison ivy plant has a three-leaflet compound leaf rather than a single or simple leaf. The leaflets are generally 2 to 3 inches long and are yellow-green in color. The upper leaf surfaces of poison ivy also appear shiny in many cases. This “shininess” is actually an oily-type substance on the leaf surface and it is this substance that causes the itchy skin rash and blisters associated with poison ivy.

Poison ivy leaves can take many forms. However, the leaflets of three remain constant, and the space between the two lateral leaflets is reddish. Photos from MSU Extension Bulletin E2946.

In general, poison ivy can be found growing in a number locations ranging from stream banks to roadside ditches and fields to the understory of forests. It is mainly a low growing plant (about 12 inches high or so) that can be found growing in patches. However, poison ivy can also grow as a vine and in this form is often found growing up trunks of trees and shrubs, which can make it harder to identify quickly. Finally, in the fall, poison ivy can produce clusters of small, round, whitish, shiny, wax-like fruits.

In Michigan, there is another plant occasionally encountered in the wild that causes skin rashes and blisters similar to poison ivy. It is called poison sumac (Toxicodendron vernix). Poison sumac is a much rarer plant to find in nature and is almost always found in very wet locations. According to the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service’s PLANTS Database, Poison sumac is mostly found growing in southern lower Michigan with only a few scattered locations in the northern portion of the Lower Peninsula. It is not known to be native to the Upper Peninsula.

More information on many of these “poisonous” plants discussed in this article is available from Michigan State University Extension publications E2935 “Giant Hogweed” or E2946 “Poison Ivy.” These publications address the identification, prevention and control of these nuisance plants along with common look-alikes that are easily confused with these species.

Did you find this article useful?

Poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) is a noxious weed commonly found growing in home landscapes, along roadsides, in forests, and even in urban areas in North America. Its toxicity is based on an active irritant called urushiol, an oily resin contained in all parts of the plant. When urushiol comes into contact with any part of the skin or internal organs of a person, it can cause a rash . Pets are less likely to be troubled by poison ivy but are occasionally affected by it as well.

Poison ivy rash is classified as a type of contact dermatitis, an inflammation of the skin. Urushiol causes the reaction, and that reaction is manifested in a rash many times accompanied by blisters. But this reaction is specifically an allergic reaction, which is why some people are more likely to develop a skin irritation than others: If you’re not allergic to urushiol, you won’t be affected.

All parts of the poison ivy plant are poisonous, not just its leaves. The plant is also toxic at all times of the year, even in winter. This is one reason why it’s important to be able to identify it by more than just the appearance of its leaves: Otherwise, you might not know that the now leafless plant in front of you is poison ivy, and if you accidentally touch it, you could develop a skin irritation. Making contact with urushiol even on dead poison ivy plants (or urushiol that has rubbed off onto walls, fences, etc.) can cause symptoms because the oily resin stays viable for five years.

Eating any part of a poison ivy plant can cause a rash to develop in your digestive tract. No one should ever ingest this plant but be especially careful when children are present to make sure they don’t accidentally eat it If an animal eats poison ivy, consequences are less severe. Dogs and cats who eat poison ivy can experience gastrointestinal upset. Many species of wildlife can eat poison ivy without being adversely affected

While dogs and cats can be affected with symptoms, they’re less likely to because they are usually protected from direct skin contact by their fur. A related issue is that, while the poison ivy rash itself is not contagious, any object that comes in contact with urushiol becomes contaminated. This means that if your dog brushes up against poison ivy, and then you pet your dog, the urushiol is transferred onto your hand, and you can develop a rash.

Typically, you are not affected with a rash the first time you come into contact with poison ivy. Instead, most people (those allergic to urushiol) are sensitized to it during this initial contact. Future contacts increase that sensitivity until, finally, you’re a prime candidate for developing a skin irritation. That’s why you’ll hear some people marvel over the fact that when they were children, they frequently touched poison ivy and never got a rash, but that as adults, they’ve all of a sudden lost their immunity.

Botanical Name	Toxicodendron radicans
Common Name	Poison ivy
Native Area	Eastern United States and Southern Canada
Plant Type	Deciduous, woody plant; can take the form of a shrub, climbing vine, or creeping vine
Mature Size	Woody shrubs are one to two feet tall and wide. Mature vines can climb 50 feet or more up a tree and develop a 6-inch diameter
Bloom Time	Late spring
Flower Color	Off-white
USDA Hardiness Zone	4 through 10

Poison ivy should be removed from your property so that you don’t accidentally make contact with it while gardening. It is possible to safely eradicate poison ivy, whether organically (manually) or with herbicides, but you must take extreme precautions and it might take several attempts. When working around poison ivy, it’s especially important to wear gloves (wash the gloves and your clothes separately afterward from your other laundry) so that any residue you came in contact with isn’t transmitted to your food, your face, your pets, other people, or any other surfaces.

If you know that toxic oil has come into contact with your skin, wash the area immediately (it will be absorbed in 30 minutes) and the rash will go away. You can also use a product that is designed to remove oil from your skin. To relieve itching and dry blisters, apply a compress or soak cold water over the rash. Antihistamines will also help relieve symptoms. If you have a moderate or severe reaction, you may need the help of your doctor. He may prescribe corticosteroid medications.These medications will help get rid of the rash more quickly. Creams, ointments and gels can also be used. However, infections are a common complication of rashes, so it is best to see a doctor. To avoid infection, try not to scratch the rash.

Learn to recognize these plants, especially those that grow near your home. Although the species of the plant changes with the seasons, it remains poisonous even in winter, despite the bare branches. If for any reason contact with the plant cannot be avoided, wear clothes that cover the body as much as possible.It is necessary to thoroughly wash clothes and wash items that were near the plant. Barrier creams and lotions can help prevent or reduce allergic reactions.

The seeds of this plant can cause serious damage to health: the toxins present in the herb inhibit the synthesis of proteins in the intestinal wall, as a result of which it is destroyed and the intestines cease to function. The first signs of castor oil poisoning may appear only after a few hours.Symptomatically, this is manifested by yellowing of the skin, the appearance of burning and pain in the abdomen, nausea and vomiting, severe headache, weakness, cramps, acceleration or deceleration of the pulse and possible respiratory arrest. At the first sign of poisoning, you should immediately consult a doctor and provide the patient with first aid. It consists in gastric lavage and a warm heating pad on the stomach. Remember that this plant is very poisonous. If there are children in your house, it is extremely dangerous to plant such a plant on your site!

Oddly enough, but one of the most poisonous plants on the planet is actively used in urban landscaping in the United States and Europe, moreover, it can be found even in playgrounds.Any part of this plant is highly poisonous, even inhaling smoke from burning oleander leaves, stems or flowers can lead to a fatal ending. It is known that in 2002, 847 deaths from contact with this plant were recorded in the United States.

All parts of oleander contain poisonous juice, it contains a number of cardiac glycosides (oleandrin, cornerin, etc.), therefore, when working with a plant – transplanting or pruning – care should be taken. And in a house where there are children, it is better not to start one.When pruning, you need to protect your eyes, lips, so that oleander juice does not get on them. After caring for the plant, wash your hands well with soap. You cannot sit for a long time near a blooming oleander or spend the night in a room where it blooms: you can get poisoned by the smell of its flowers or, at least, get a severe headache. Children should be warned about all this.

Representatives of the Brugmansia clan are welcome exhibits in the collection of flora lovers. The large elegant flowers of these shrubs and trees leave no one indifferent. Not surprisingly, these plants are often used in decorative landscaping. However, all parts of brugmansia, especially leaves and seeds, contain a large amount of poisonous alkaloids, including scopolamine, hyoscyamine and atropine.In some countries, there is even a ban on planting these plants in crowded public places due to toxic and psychotropic substances in large quantities contained in all parts of the plant and, especially, in its seeds. The high hallucinogenic properties of brugmans have long been used by South American Indians during spiritualistic rituals, as well as for medicinal purposes. Currently, in the northern, warmer provinces of Argentina, brugmansia is grown for the biochemical and pharmaceutical industry in order to obtain the valuable alkaloids of scopolamine and atropine.

This very insidious plant contains the toxin tremetol, which has a detrimental effect both when directly used and indirectly.For example, when goats or cows eat steak, their meat and milk are “contaminated” with the toxin tremethol, and the consumption of these products leads to severe poisoning, also known as “milk sickness”. It is known that Nancy Hanks – the mother of Abraham Lincoln – died from poisoning with just such milk. Milk poisoning is rare today.

Belladonna, Belladonna or Sleepy Stupor is a plant famous for its poisonous properties and has a rich history of poisoning, both accidental and deliberate.However, many people do not even realize that among the closest relatives of this dangerous beauty are potatoes, tomatoes, eggplant and hot chili peppers. Their leaves, like belladonna leaves, also contain toxins that can cause serious poisoning. True, the amount of toxins in these plants is less.

Cicutol is considered poisonous: cicutoxin is contained in the resin of the root. Within a few minutes after entering the body, the substance causes nausea, vomiting and colic in the lower abdomen, which may be followed by dizziness, a shaky gait, foam at the mouth.The pupils are dilated, and seizures and convulsions can result in paralysis and death. Help in case of poisoning – prompt gastric lavage with a mixture of activated carbon and tannin.

Wild ivy somewhat resembles a vine , it winds around nearby trees or spreads along the ground. Young shoots of this plant may not have foliage, or are covered with hairs. Its leaves are diamond-shaped, and the ovoid form is also found on the leaves. The leaves are collected in a shamrock, usually light green in color. The lower surface of the leaf is covered with hairs that are somewhat reminiscent of small needles, the upper surface is smooth and shiny.

The length of the leaf is generally 10 to 14 centimeters.Its flowers are small, collected in small inflorescences, yellow-green in color. The berries are small, white with a large stone (drupe). Wild ivy blooms in June-July, and in early October, berries ripen, somewhat similar to small balls. In sunny areas, it looks more like a shrub, and in shaded areas wraps around a neighboring tree like a liana.

Poison ivy is found everywhere, in North America, and especially often in its eastern part.On the territory of Russia from the Sumakhov family, only two species grow, which are found in the Southern Kuriles. There he is a tree with a height of two to eight meters with a thin trunk. He also has complex pinnate leaves , which are collected at the top of the plant. Because of this, wild ivy looks somewhat like a palm tree.

Toxicodendron contains milky juice, this juice oxidizes and turns black in the air. Milky sap is very poisonous and upon contact with it, a person can get severe burns, with blisters.The bark of this plant also contains toxic substances such as lobitin, phenolic compounds and glycosides. In this plant, all parts are absolutely poisonous, from the stem to the berries, but despite this, drugs are made from it. Back in the 18th century, homeopathic doctors used poison ivy tincture to treat diseases such as influenza, rheumatism and, oddly enough, skin diseases.

First of all, poisoning manifests itself in the form of a skin rash, which has a vesicular type.In the future, inflammation of the skin begins. A burn from contact does not appear immediately, but after about seven days. Symptoms of poisoning pass for a long time, they can manifest themselves for a month. The poison of the plant that gets on the skin of a person, fortunately, will not spread to other parts of the body.

The toxins contained in this shrub can lead to damage to the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract , which can cause inflammation of the stomach and even intestines.It is not recommended to burn wild ivy; when burning, toxic substances can enter the respiratory tract and cause irritation of the mucous membranes of the throat, as well as the appearance of a dangerous rash in the lungs, and cause severe inflammation of the respiratory tract. In some cases, poisoning can lead to anaphylactic shock.

Treatment of poisoning must first of all begin with in order to reduce itching on the skin. To do this, wash the burn with detergent or soap as soon as possible. It is imperative to wash damaged skin areas with soap because the substances that cause burns simply do not dissolve with water, which means they will not be washed off the victim’s skin. It is also advisable to use ointments and creams containing antihistamines . You can also use sunburn creams that cool the skin.

Blisters formed during burns should not be punctured, this can lead to infection of the wound, as well as the contact of tight and pressing clothing with the burn site is unacceptable. If the blister has burst, and there is a possibility of damage to the wound from clothing, the wound should be wrapped with a sterile bandage. In order to avoid the attachment of secondary bacterial infection , the option of using antibiotics cannot be ruled out. In case of feeling unwell, pain or discomfort in the throat, lungs or stomach, see a doctor immediately.

Poison ivy is a plant that causes maximum damage to human skin. A rash develops on the skin upon contact with any part of the plant. This rash is the result of a reaction to a chemical compound in a resin called urushiol. It is found in almost all plants. Even the smoke from burning poison ivy irritates mucous membranes and skin. It also induces a reaction in the airways.
The main symptoms after exposure to poison ivy are: inflammation, fever, severe itching, red pimples, blisters, burning, and inflammation in the face or genitals.Symptoms usually begin about an hour later and persist for seven or ten days after plant contact. Irritation spreads especially quickly with skin lesions such as scratches.
The parts of the body that are primarily affected by poison ivy are: hands, face or legs. But irritation and inflammation quickly spreads to different parts of the body in the form of a rash. On the second day of the onset of the rash, redness, itching, and, as a rule, swelling begins to disappear. It takes seven to fourteen days for complete healing.
After contact with poison ivy , the following remedies are recommended:
1. Vitamin C with bioflavonoids . It is very helpful in preventing infection, spreading rash quickly, and also in reducing the swelling caused by urushiol.
2. Zinc is very effective in restoring skin tissue, therefore it is recommended to take it regularly after exposure to poison ivy.
3. Apply aloe vera juice, watermelon rind or tofu to the affected area.They provide a soothing and cooling effect and also reduce itching.
4. Use Calendula Solution to prevent or limit the spread of rash and itching.
5. Calamine Lotion is also very effective in speeding up the healing of inflammation. Regular use is recommended.

While it is certainly unwise to eat some unknown plant, as there are literally thousands of poisonous species, there are some plants that travelers may encounter that can cause problems simply by touching them.When enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking in areas where these plants are endemic, it is best to know what to look out for. If you are not 100% sure what a plant is, it is better to be safe than sorry and stay away from it (for example: there are plants in Northwest Africa that look like cucumber and tiny watermelons, but they are actually poisonous to the touch .)!

These three plants secrete a substance called urushiol oil, which can cause rashes and blisters known as contact dermatitis. Oil sticks to just about anything it comes into contact with, such as towels, blankets, and even clothing. Clothing or other materials that come into contact with the plant and then come into contact with the skin before washing are common causes of exposure. It usually takes about 24 hours for the rash to appear; for those with severe reactions, it will get worse over the next few days.For severe reactions, prednisone should be given to stop the damage to the skin, especially if the eyes are affected. The rash usually lasts one to two weeks, and in some cases, up to five weeks. At least 25% of people have very strong responses leading to severe symptoms. Because the skin reaction is allergic, people may develop progressively stronger reactions after repeated exposure. Some people lack allergies, but you don’t want to find out in a complicated way that you are not one of these exceptions.

“Three leaflets, so be it” is the most famous and most useful warning rhyme.It is used for poisoning oak, as well as for poisoning ivy.
“Hairy vine, my friend is gone.” Poison ivy vines are more poisonous than roots, and the poison can linger on the vine for years.
“Longer middle stem; stay away from them. ” This refers to the middle leaf having a noticeably longer stem than the two lateral leaflets and is the key to distinguishing it from the species-like Rhus aromatica (aromatic sumac).
“Rag rope, don’t be silly!” Poison ivy vines on trees have a fluffy “ragged” appearance.This rhyme warns climbers to be careful. Old, mature vines on tree trunks can be quite large and long,
“One, two, three? Dont touch me”.
“White berries, scared” and “White berries, danger in sight.”
“Red leaflets in spring, it’s a dangerous thing.” This refers to the red appearance that new leaflets sometimes have in the spring. (Note that later in the summer, the leaflets are green, making them difficult to distinguish from other plants, and they can be reddish orange in the fall.)
“Side leaflets, like mittens, will itch like dickens.” This refers to the emergence of some, but not all, poison ivy leaves, where each of the two lateral leaflets has a small indentation that makes the leaf look like a “thumb” mitten. (Note that this rhyme should not be misinterpreted to mean that only the side leaves will itch, as virtually all parts of the plant can itch.)
“No one likes leaves like gloves.”See above.
“If he has hair, it won’t be fair.” This refers to hair that can be found on the stem and leaves of poison ivy.

Poison Oak
Poison Oak refers to any of two plant species found widely in the mountains, valleys, and canyons of the western United States and Canada. It thrives in shady canyons and coastal habitats, growing either a climbing vine with aerial roots that adhere to the trunks of oak and plane trees, or as a stand-alone plant.Like poison ivy, its leaves are divided into three parts and range from green to red depending on the season.

Poison Sumac
Poison Sumac is a shrub or small tree that grows up to almost 30 feet in height. Its leaves are 2-4 inches long and oval-oblong, tapering to a sharp point and wedge-shaped with wavy edges. Its flowers are greenish, growing in loose clusters 3-8 inches long. The fruit is not quite spherical, gray, flattened, about 0.2 inches across.Poison sumac grows exclusively in very wet or flooded soils, usually swamps and peatlands, in the eastern United States and Canada.

Normal washing with powder detergent will remove urushiol from most clothing, but not leather or suede. One home remedy involves washing clothes with a Fels-Naptha
. The liquid from the resulting bubbles does not spread poison ivy to others.
Blisters should be left intact during treatment.
Poison ivy is not harmless when the leaves have fallen, as the toxic resin is very persistent. Every part of the plant contains urushiol and can cause rashes any time of the year.
Ice, cold water, cooling lotions, or cold air will not heal poison ivy rashes, but cooling can reduce inflammation and soothe itching.

Stinging nettle
These plants have many hollow, stinging hairs on the leaves and stems that act like hypodermic needles, injecting histamine and other chemicals that cause a burning sensation upon contact with humans and other animals. Nettle is common in northern Europe and most of Asia, usually in the countryside.They are less common in southern Europe and northern Africa, where they are limited by their need for moist soil. In North America, they are widespread in Canada and the United States, where they are found in every province and state except Hawaii, as well as in northernmost Mexico. They grow abundantly in the Pacific Northwest, especially in areas with high annual rainfall.

Anti-itch drugs, usually in the form of creams containing antihistamines or hydrocortisone, may relieve symptoms of a nettle bite.But due to the combination of chemicals, other remedies may be required. Calamine Lotion can be helpful. There are many folk remedies for itching, including dandelion, horsetail, fern bottoms (spores), dirt, saliva or baking soda, oil and onions, and topical consumption of milk of magnesia. Lemon juice also works for healing. Alternatively, you can simply ignore the burning sensation and let it go its own (harmless) course. A simple wash with water (immediately after the burning sensation) also helps.

Giant hogweed
The giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) grows in the Caucasus and Central Asia and was first introduced to the UK as an ornamental plant. Today, it grows wildly in much of Europe north of the Alps, as well as Canada and the northern United States. The plant looks like a common hogweed, but it grows to a height of several meters, and all parts of the plant carry phototoxic sap. Skin that comes into contact with the sap becomes hypersensitive to UV rays, resulting in painful blisters far beyond normal sunburn, which leave scars for a long time.Eye contact leads to blindness.

Evergreen ivy is an unpretentious plant. Usually grown in cemeteries, parks and gardens. It is often found when creating sound-suppressing walls, as well as when landscaping the facades of houses and buildings. He can cope with such a variety of conditions that it is not necessary to take care of him. Grows in the sun and shade. It can also handle completely shaded areas. The quality of the soil is not so important either. It can be either alkaline or slightly acidic soil.

If there is a desire to provide ivy with suitable and favorable conditions for its growth and development, then it is enough to remember what conditions the forest environment will provide. With a lot of moisture, ivy can easily resist the sun, as well as humus and sand. After planting, ivy should be well protected from frost. At least for the first two years. Older plants can withstand both frost and prolonged drought.

Two species are successfully grown in our climate: HEDERA HELIX (climbing ivy) and HEDERA COLCHICA (Colchis ivy).They are divided into several varieties with different patterns and shapes of leaves. In addition, different species differ in color. They can range from dark green, dull green to yellow green or whitish. Ivy has short, dense, root-like formations, often called aerial roots. They easily hold plants on a coarse base such as tree bark or gypsum.

Nature lovers will also appreciate the ecological element in growing ivy. It often serves as a wintering place for various birds, butterflies and other insects, and also provides support for the construction of nests for small birds.
The plant does not need any support to grow. It itself clings to the substrate and rises up.Ivy can also hang from rooftop gardens and balconies, covering some unsightly areas.
This beautiful plant can be successfully formed by cutting. The incision can be made at almost any time. Ivy also reflects well on older trees, hiding their imperfections. It can be used in the garden as an undergrowth under heavily shaded trees. Plants at the roots often have strong growth, so grasses and ferns can easily overgrow. Ivy can easily outlast the trees that it captures.
Varieties differ not only in the shape and color of the leaves, but also in the degree of resistance to low temperatures. Some ivy varieties can only be grown at room temperature in containers, while others can be grown outdoors all year round.

As a rule, ivy leaves fall off due to fluctuations in the air humidity in the room. However, pests such as spider mites can easily cause thinning of foliage.
Spider mites are found on plants that overwinter in an environment that is too warm. You can get rid of parasites by washing the infected leaves under running water. Then you need to scrape off the plaque with a knife, and then treat the affected areas with a solution of alcohol and soap. Upon completion of the procedure, you need to thoroughly rinse the plant with water again.
It’s nice to know that ivy leaves can turn beautifully green on almost every living plant. It can be impressively combined with, for example, a green anthurium or a greenish hydrangea flower.

Different people have different reactions to the oils that all parts of this plant secrete. Roots, stem, leaves, flowers and vines are poisonous – yes, vines! This plant lets out such long “tentacles” that, wrapping them around the trunk of a tree, it can climb to a great height! So, the reaction may not be noticeable at all, it may be a red rash.And in rare cases, the poison of this ivy can kill.

Since then, I have carefully studied what the different parts of this plant look like at different times of the year, and I try to avoid it. But all the same, from time to time it does find me. Recently my dog ran through the bushes, came back to me and rubbed it on my leg. Guess what I saw on my leg a few hours later? Right.Rash. And what about the dog? The dog, at least henna. This infection does not take them.

“Speaking about the peculiarities of the villages of the southern district, I forgot to mention one more thing: here they are often poisoned by a fighter (Aconitum Napellus). In Mitsulka, at a settler Takovo, a pig was poisoned by a fighter; he was greedy and ate her liver, and almost died. When I was in his hut, he stood with strength and spoke in a weak voice, but he talked about the liver with a laugh, and from his still swollen, blue-crimson face, one could judge how dearly this liver cost him.A little earlier he was poisoned by a wrestler, old man Konkov and died, and his house is now empty. This house constitutes one of the landmarks of Mitsulka.
– Anton Chekhov, “Sakhalin Island (From Travel Notes)”, 1894

Hogweed is a plant species very successfully introduced from the Caucasus Mountains more than 60 years ago. The active spread of hogweed was largely facilitated by our carelessness, and “know-it-all” in the field of plant cultivation, and non-compliance with strict recommendations for crop management. And, of course, difficult economic circumstances in land use since the mid-90s of the twentieth century.

In the middle zone and many other regions of Russia, the plant appeared in the last century, after the Patriotic War. Once, having learned that hogweed is a valuable forage crop in North America, Stalin personally ordered to breed it everywhere. From a weed, hogweed has turned into a cultivated plant. Stalin’s business of breeding hogweed was continued by Khrushchev, and then Brezhnev. In the 70s, the Poles were advised to grow hogweed, but local livestock breeders did not like this, since the milk of cows consuming hogweed gave off bitterness.In addition, it turned out that the plant is poisonous. And although they stopped growing hogweed in Poland, for a long time it was called nothing less than “Stalin’s revenge.”

In our country, the breeding of hogweed has also been abandoned almost everywhere. But it was too late. The giant broke free and began to conquer territories, multiplying by itself, without any control. When the plant was cultivated, fears were expressed that after the end of the exploitation period it would be difficult to restrict or destroy the hogweed crops and that it could turn into a malicious weed in the fields, as it is capable of self-seeding reproduction.These fears have now come true.

During the growing season, photodynamically active furocoumarins accumulate in different parts of the hogweed plant (in leaves, stems, fruits in many species). It is the presence of coumarins and furocoumarins in the hogweed juice, which increase the body’s sensitivity to the perception of sunlight, and is the main “evil” of these plants. The juice that gets on the skin under the influence of sunlight (ultraviolet radiation) can increase the pigmentation of the skin of humans and animals, cause dermatitis, which is often called “burns”.There were cases of such dermatoses – up to III degree, as well as even deaths in young children from numerous skin burns. Most often, dermatitis from the contact of hogweed juice on the skin is expressed in blisters, alternating with dark spots, which disappear within 3-6 months. With significant skin lesions, a year later, recurrence of the appearance of brown spots on the skin after burns is possible with new irradiation of the body with sunlight. Scars may also remain.

I had a sad experience.I bought two ivy, one green, the other with a speck of white. both died. They just dried up gradually. Apparently the humidity was low. And it was too late to catch on. Yes, and the mind was not enough at the first sign of at least stuffing the plants into the package. But I would love to look at the pets of others. By the way, I saw once upon a time an ivy, which stuck directly to the wallpaper like a tick with its roots. the truth is, it is fraught with living with one wallpaper for the rest of your life!

I bought a heder ivy in the supermarket – so lovely! Brought it home – and he went to grow up! BUT.after a couple of weeks, she began to notice that the leaves began to turn yellow and curl. looked closely – spider mite! I always had many different plants (palm, dracaena, violets, spathiphyllum) – and sometimes only black midges became the only pest. And then suddenly such a monster, unfamiliar. from where. And then a guess dawned on me – I bought ivy, already infected! and so it turned out. I came to that supermarket again, looked at the ivy – they were ALL infected with a spider mite

Five years ago, I grew a beautiful compact dense ivy bush on my window. Its lashes were already more than half a meter, and I placed it on the wall, but after a month the distance between the leaves, with new growths, began to increase and the type of plant changed. Still, it’s best to keep it close to the light.But this plant is not demanding, you just need to monitor watering.
But then I heard the following saying: “If you grow ivy, your husband will leave.” And I also heard that it is an energy vampire. And to the best of her faith in omens, she decided to get rid of this plant. In general, I love those plants that delight with their flowering.

Good day to everyone, especially to gardeners and flower growers! I never would have thought that I would sit and write some kind of review about ivy, but I am just delighted with these wonderful living green “guys”. I met them just at work. On the very first working day, I saw that there were a bunch of plants around, but there was no care for them, some were half-dried, which were just sticking out in sour cream jars, in short, quiet horror.The little ivy was in a particularly deplorable state, it grew and it did not have enough space in its glass, it has a very interesting color of leaves, green, and white around the edges. I took pity on him and went to buy him a new pot, earth, drainage.

So if you don’t like fiddling with flowers or are often away on business trips, this flower is perfect for you. The only thing is that it does not bloom at home, that is, there is no special beauty in it, such as from violets or hibiscus. But you can put the coasters in the middle of the pot and the branches will braid them and you get interesting figures. It propagates by cuttings, as I understand it.

Earlier I tried to grow several types of ivy, despite the fact that the plant is not particularly capricious, they did not live with me for a long time. Apparently the location of the windows in my apartment, where I lived, did not allow.
In autumn, at a visiting fair, I could not resist and bought a small cutting for only 5 UAH, I was even surprised that it was so cheap.When I came as a lady, I realized that it was cheap because the stalk was not rooted, just cut off before selling, I was upset, decided again to have no luck with ivy. The seller said that she would sit with no signs of life until February 15, and then she would grow.
But it turned out that he began to grow in about a week after I put him in a pot, I was delighted. ))
In the photo, the upper part, the larger leaves, this is already my growth. If there is already an increase, I no longer worry about the root system, it has taken root.I hope the curly liana will grow, which I always wanted.

I also have such a flower. Planted last year. As it grew not very well. Transplanted and hung on the wall. I have a lot of flowers, but I don’t really indulge them with attention. I can not water for two weeks. As soon as the leaves fall, the conscience appears and I start to water.As for the ivy, it leaves very quickly and after half an hour as good as new. I bought liquid fertilizer and when watering I put the pot in a container, pour water, add fertilizer and leave it overnight. About a month has passed and the flowers are unrecognizable. And IVY turned green, letting go of new shoots, it is so pleasant to look at him. And yesterday it acquired another variety. The leaves are slightly larger and curly. Now I will raise him.

Ivy came to us from the mountainous regions of Asia and Europe.They are grown both for vertical gardening and for hanging in pots or baskets.
Common ivy has a solid green leaf color. The plant prefers temperature depending on the season, in summer – up to 25 degrees, in winter – 15-12 degrees. But, as a rule, ivy adapts well to temperature conditions.
Lighting for Common Ivy should be bright enough, as with a lack of light, the leaves can lose their brightness and attractiveness.
This plant prefers high humidity, so it must be watered in a timely manner, avoiding overdrying of the soil, and also often sprayed.
When the plant has grown well, you can form various figures, baskets and so on from it, it all depends on your imagination.

I don’t remember when I bought decorative ivy with a very interesting middle color: white and yellow along the edge, but after a while it “ran wild” and became the same as it grows in the forest – the leaves are dark green, the vines are many meters long, all the time you have to cling to something, lay them down.
Ivy is generally a very unpretentious plant. Mine also behaves quite impudently: it releases aerial roots that try to stick to the wall and grow into it. Pulling it off the wall is a big problem. You cannot put it in another place: firstly, he prefers a shadow, and secondly, if at the window it grows so much that you cannot open the window later. So you have to keep an eye on him all the time. A twig, if it sinks to the ground, immediately takes root and sprouts.
Never bloomed, although in natural conditions it should bloom, naturally there were no berries either.The smell is pleasant. As far as I know, ivy is used medicinally. In folk medicine, for example, fresh – for burns.

Just there he is awakened by the opportunity to grow in all directions, and I really like it when, well, very empty spaces are filled with flowers…. it’s not up to fanaticism, but it’s very beautiful when there is something alive on an empty wall. in my case, the flower has freedom of action, you want to grow towards the (large) window, you want to grow along the entire empty wall, I can only imagine a living, green wall in the kitchen.

It seems to me that it will turn out pretty nicely. How do you like it? As far as I understand, the plant needs to be watered, in a warm period of time, a couple of times a week, less often in winter. Ivy loves to be sprayed. It multiplies very easily, it is enough to tear off a piece of a twig and re-stick it into the ground.it is very good when the plant is quickly adopted, I love when it is so, it is not necessary to stand it until it takes root. In general, I will be watching my new home plant.

Absolutely non-venomous hello to everyone reading this. For a few requests, I continue to introduce the Pikabushniks to the abilities of various comic book characters, and today I want to talk about Poison Ivy – a charming and attractive eco-terrorist from the DC universe. The materials contained in the post may contradict the laws of physics, logic, common sense and each other, as well as offend the feelings of lovers of realism . Only Poison Ivy from the main universe comics is considered.

Although Ivy looks like a person (except sometimes with green skin), she is not a person, since there is much more of a plant in her. Ivy needs sunlight for a comfortable existence, and even if it suddenly sticks its flippers together, it will come to life as soon as it is poured.It is immune to most poisons (including Joker’s), but vulnerable to herbicides / defoliants and other weed-fighting crap. Well … when it’s plot-wise.

Poison Ivy is famous for its poisonousness. Even just touching it is dangerous. Her kiss is fatal – though not always, but only when she wants to, because Ivy is able to subtly control toxins in her body. There is enough poison in it to kill a thousand people at a time, and in some of its sharp nails there is enough poison to knock down an elephant.True, it is still not enough to make the Good Granny cough, but she is still one of the New Gods, and not one of the small ones.

Ivy can control the chemistry in his body, adjusting it to the desired situation – for example, making his poisons caustic, burning enemy gloves or adjusting to the biology of aliens in order to poison even those who are immune to earthly poisons. Its poison can work like a love potion or truth serum. And it also remains in the body – Ivy can remotely kill anyone who has ever survived her kiss.She also has acidic blood.

Although Ivy and not Groot, she is still quite hardy, like most plants.She survived fairly severe blows without significant harm. She came out without significant damage from a skirmish with Catwoman, (even friends sometimes quarrel), survived a skirmish with the living dead, did not turn sour from a kick from Donna Troy (Donna is close to Wonder Woman in terms of strength, and she, in turn, in strength not far from Superman), survived the collapse of the house and innumerable clashes with Batman and numerous Robins and Batgirls. She was frozen, blown up – and she experienced it every time.And survived.

Poison Ivy can control plants, and under her control they move much faster than they should. Her favorite weapons in this regard are roots, vines and vines, which even Batman can braid faster than he can orient himself. Ivy can grow an impressive tree in a matter of moments to protect itself from an abandoned batarang – or to defend itself with a thick vine against bullets. In a matter of minutes, her plants can braid the whole of Smallville.

It is useless to run away from the angry Poisonous – she will find the villain who offended her or her plant and punish. When Ivy was especially angry, her plants were caught by helicopters and airships, did not allow them to fly away and forcibly planted. What can we say about people, which, by the way, ivy can track down with the help of roots.Even with very thin vines, it can crush a brick wall into dust.

Plants do not need to be visible to manage. Poison Ivy can turn a desert island into a blooming garden, almost spawning plants out of nowhere. Any flora obeys her – and comics like to twirl concepts, so, if necessary, Poison Ivy can also control microflora. In Justice League of America # 13 in 2006, Ivy, realizing that she could not defeat the Green Lantern by brute force, and the force field would not allow him to be poisoned, arranged a disco for the bacteria in his intestines.The proud “Emerald Gladiator” yearned and collapsed, clutching his tummy, and Poison girl only gently whispered that he should be grateful to her for not bringing the matter to explosive diarrhea.

Poison Ivy is closely related to Greenery – the energy that unites all plants and gives life to all flora. By concentrating, she can use Greenery to locate people or spy on specific areas. She can read the thoughts of the creatures of flora (well, such as intelligent plants or Swamp Thing) and senses when plants are destroyed, even if it is not in her sight. For example, he feels pain in the grass while mowing.

With all these forces, Ivy quite reasonably believes that there is no point in getting into a fight if someone else might be in danger. And then her reserve ability comes into play – the release of pheromones. These same pheromones completely subdue the consciousness of the victims, they act on both men and women – but it is still more true for men. With the help of pheromones, Ivy was able to control both ordinary workers, soldiers and officials, and Superman, and even (albeit not for long) Batman.

And do not forget that Ivy, that is, Pamela Lillian Eisley, is not only a seducer who knows how to control plants, but also a world-renowned scientist in the field of botany.From one glance at the plants, she can distinguish under what conditions they grew. She knows more and more about plants – in particular, Miss Eisley created a hybrid of plants and animals (dogs and roses, to be exact), and also created a serum for Harley Queen, which made Harley immune to the poisons that Ivy’s body produces (and at the same time made Harley stronger and more agile than ordinary people).

Wild ivy somewhat resembles a vine , it winds around nearby trees or spreads along the ground. Young shoots of this plant may not have foliage, or are covered with hairs. Its leaves are diamond-shaped, and the ovoid form is also found on the leaves. The leaves are collected in a shamrock, usually light green in color.The lower surface of the leaf is covered with hairs that are somewhat reminiscent of small needles, the upper surface is smooth and shiny.

The length of the leaf is generally 10 to 14 centimeters. Its flowers are small, collected in small inflorescences, yellow-green in color. The berries are small, white with a large stone (drupe). Wild ivy blooms in June-July, and in early October, berries ripen, somewhat similar to small balls. In sunny areas, it looks more like a shrub, and in shaded areas wraps around a neighboring tree like a liana.

Poison ivy is found everywhere, in North America, and especially often in its eastern part. On the territory of Russia from the Sumakhov family, only two species grow, which are found in the Southern Kuriles. There he is a tree with a height of two to eight meters with a thin trunk. He also has complex pinnate leaves , which are collected at the top of the plant. Because of this, wild ivy looks somewhat like a palm tree.

Toxicodendron contains milky juice, this juice oxidizes and turns black in the air. Milky sap is very poisonous and upon contact with it, a person can get severe burns, with blisters. The bark of this plant also contains toxic substances such as lobitin, phenolic compounds and glycosides. In this plant, all parts are absolutely poisonous, from the stem to the berries, but despite this, drugs are made from it. Back in the 18th century, homeopathic doctors used poison ivy tincture to treat diseases such as influenza, rheumatism and, oddly enough, skin diseases.

First of all, poisoning manifests itself in the form of a rash on the skin, which has a vesicular type. In the future, inflammation of the skin begins. A burn from contact does not appear immediately, but after about seven days. Symptoms of poisoning pass for a long time, they can manifest themselves for a month. The poison of the plant that gets on the skin of a person, fortunately, will not spread to other parts of the body.

The toxins contained in this shrub can lead to damage to the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract , which can cause inflammation of the stomach and even intestines. It is not recommended to burn wild ivy; when burning, toxic substances can enter the respiratory tract and cause irritation of the mucous membranes of the throat, as well as the appearance of a dangerous rash in the lungs, and cause severe inflammation of the respiratory tract. In some cases, poisoning can lead to anaphylactic shock.

Treatment of poisoning must first of all begin with in order to reduce itching on the skin. To do this, wash the burn with detergent or soap as soon as possible. It is imperative to wash damaged skin areas with soap because the substances that cause burns simply do not dissolve with water, which means they will not be washed off the victim’s skin.It is also advisable to use ointments and creams containing antihistamines . You can also use sunburn creams that cool the skin.

Blisters resulting from burns must not be punctured, this can lead to infection of the wound, as well as the contact of tight and pressing clothing with the burn site is unacceptable. If the blister has burst, and there is a possibility of damage to the wound from clothing, the wound should be wrapped with a sterile bandage. In order to avoid the attachment of secondary bacterial infection , the option of using antibiotics cannot be ruled out.In case of feeling unwell, pain or discomfort in the throat, lungs or stomach, see a doctor immediately.

So what makes poison ivy (and poison oak and poison sumac) poisonous? The answer is urushiol, which is a sap that passes through all parts of the plant. Release against poison ivy by any exposed part of your body is all it takes to release this poison.The situation is complicated by the fact that contact with poison ivy does not even have to be direct in order for you to get a rash. For example, if your dog has run some poison ivy, then you stroke the dog’s fur with your hand, you can come in contact with the sap and cause a rash. Likewise, if someone else has worked in an area contaminated with poison ivy with gloves, then you come in and touch those contaminated gloves, you could get a rash.

Treatment for a poisonous rash also applies to symptoms from contact with oak poison and sumach poison.Treatment or treatment for this rash usually focuses on repairing skin irritation and itching. Different people find different degrees of relief by treating a poisonous ivy rash with over-the-counter treatments such as hydrocortisone. And despite being included in the classic rock song “Poison Ivy,” even Calamine Lotion has its limitations as a treatment.

Reproduction by shoots
. We take a shoot, which has 8-10 leaves, and put it on the sand. Now we place it inside the sand using indentations. Only leaves should be on the surface.After 10 days, underground roots will appear on the stem, where the buds from the air roots are located. Now the shoot needs to be pulled out of the sand and cut in such a way that there is a leaf and roots on each cuttings. Cuttings can not be kept in water until the roots appear, for this you just need to treat them with a special powder. When the cuttings take root, they are planted in a finished pot or soil.

Ivy has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is used as an astringent, emetic, laxative. Ivy alcoholic tincture is used to lower blood pressure and remove warts.A decoction made from this plant helps to cure coughs and relieve headaches. Due to the fact that preparations based on the plant have a hemolytic property, ivy is taken to maintain the tone of all vessels of the body.

Ivy decoction for skin diseases.
To prepare it, you need to take 1 tablespoon of crushed ivy leaves and pour 200 ml of boiling water over them.Let’s put everything in a water bath for half an hour. After removing the composition from the water bath, take the gauze, put it in 3 layers and filter the product. The resulting broth is brought to the original volume with boiling water. Take this medicine three times a day, 1 tablespoon. The same broth can be used for washing.

When working on a personal plot, we can come into contact with various plants that cause allergic rashes on the body. Basically, these are three types: poison ivy, poison sumac and poison oak. Here you will learn about allergic rash – reaction to juice of the poison ivy plant
(urushiol) and methods of dealing with allergies.
I invite you to the group on Subscribe.ru:

Folk Wisdom, Medicine and Experience

According to one expert group, the juice contains a non-volatile resin called ursiolya. Other scientists claim that the juice contains a phenol derivative called toxicodendrol. And the third group of scientists call the poison of the plant toxicodendrolic acid, or consider it a mixture of different glycosidic substances.It is also known for certain that the bark of toxicodendrons contains a poison – lobitin.

The action of its juice is expressed in the appearance of skin rash, nausea, vomiting. The victim has symptoms of fever and fever. There is swelling of the glands, ulcers appear in the mouth. But this property of juice was used by homeopathic doctors. The prepared preparation based on it “Rhus tox” is used in the treatment of ailments accompanied by fever, anxiety, ulceration, and swollen glands.