What do poison ivy do to you?

Let’s talk about poison ivy. The notorious plant that makes us all feel a little itchy just thinking about it. But what exactly is poison ivy, and why should we avoid it at all costs? Here’s everything you need to know about this pesky plant.

What is Poison Ivy?

Poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) is a leafy green plant found throughout North America. It grows in various forms, including climbing or ground-dwelling vines and shrubs up to four feet tall, often with leaves grouped in threes.

Each part of the poison ivy plant, including its leaves and stem, contains an oily resin called urushiol which causes an allergic reaction when skin comes into contact with it.

Fun fact: Did you know that dogs are immune to the effects of poison ivy? Lucky for them!

Symptoms of Exposure

If you come into contact with poison ivy, you’ll suffer from symptoms that can last anywhere from one to three weeks:

• Severe itching
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blisters
• Difficulty breathing (in serious cases)

The severity of your reaction will depend on how much urushiol oil comes into contact with your body and how sensitive your skin is.

Pro Tip: If you think you’ve been exposed to poison ivy but haven’t shown any symptoms yet – try rubbing Hershey’s chocolate syrup on the suspected area – if there hasn’t been any exposure then nothing will happen!

Treatment Options

So what do you do if you’re suffering from the unforgiving symptoms of a run-in with this treacherous three-leaved devil?

Luckily there are lots of treatment options available:

Over-the-counter Remedies:

Most people rely on over-the-counter remedies such as Calamine lotion, hydrocortisone creams, and cool compresses to help relieve symptoms.

Prescription Options:

In severe cases, prescription medications such as oral steroids or antihistamines can be prescribed.

Warning: Don’t try treating yourself with something fancy like “tendies” from your bestie’s secret stash of high-end organic plants. Just don’t even think about it! Consult a medical professional instead.

Tips for Prevention

The best way to avoid the itchiness and discomfort associated with poison ivy is to prevent contact with the plant in the first place:

• Learn how to identify poison ivy so you can steer clear.
• Wear protective clothing (long sleeves, pants, gloves) if you’re going into areas where poison ivy may be present.
• If you do come into contact with poison ivy or its oils, immediately wash exposed skin
  with soap and water. This will help remove any urushiol oil from your skin before it has a chance to cause an allergic reaction.

Myth Busters: Separating Fact From Fiction

There are some pretty wild myths out there when it comes to dealing with the dreaded poison ivy – but which ones are actually true?

Here are some common untruths:

Myth #1

You have nothing to worry about if you’ve never had an allergic reaction before.

Reality Check

Unfortunately not everyone who gets exposed immediately reacts once/if ever they’re bitten by that nasty thing!

Myth #2

Poison Ivy only grows on three leaves per cluster.

Reality Check

Yes — this myth is actually true! Poison Ivy leaves always grow in groups of three!

Myth#3

It’s okay to burn Poison Ivy plants because heat kills the allergen!

Reality check

This could potentially kill other living organisms too – don’t attempt without proper authorization from local authorities

Pro Tip: one way of differentiating poison ivy from other plants is by the color of its vines: typically, poison Ivy has red stems when young and brownish-yellow when mature. Also, remember leaves of three – leave them be.

The Bottom Line: Don’t Mess With Poison Ivy

Poison ivy can cause some pretty severe symptoms which are definitely not worth the risk — so it’s best to avoid contact with this plant whenever possible.

Be sure to frequently inspect your skin in case you do come into contact with poison ivy or similar plants. If you spot any unusual bumps or rashes appearing after a hike out in nature, seek medical attention immediately.

Stay safe and always keep an eye out for that pesky plant!