Heads Up, Scouts! Avoid These Poisonous Plants

There is something so fun about Spring and Summer arriving and the weather changing from cold to warm that makes us want to get outside more to play and adventure. That same weather means that plants are taking off too! After finding a few fresh shoots of poison ivy in my yard, I figured it was time to launch a little write-up about poisonous plants to make sure we are all staying safe while we are running around in our yards and parks.

Poisonous plants can be harmful to you and cause health problems that range from skin irritation (allergic reaction on contact-type plants) to vomiting and nervous system disorders (allergic reaction upon ingestion-type plants). Note that there are lots of plants that are poisonous if ingested (eaten), so it is always important to keep an eye on younger children who have a higher likelihood of tasting things on the go (cue awkward laugh, since just last week I found my toddler eating food off of the floor). The three plants listed below all cause an allergic reaction from contact. 

Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, and Poison Sumac cause an allergic reaction in about 80% of individuals who come into contact with them. The reaction is caused by the oil urushiol contained in the plant's sap. I am part of the lucky 20(ish)% that is unaffected by urushiol but am still very careful to avoid it at all costs because with repeated contact, you can actually develop a reaction! 

Poison Ivy - allergic reaction on contact

Poison Ivy is a three-leaved plant that grows as a trailing vine, climbing vine, or shrub.

• This plant grows in a 3 leaf pattern, with the leaves having a smooth, shiny texture.
• It is commonly confused with other vines, but the main thing to look for is always the 3-leaf configuration.
• The leaves are normally green, but in the fall they start to transition to bright red, yellow, or orange.
• The plant stems are hairy and it’s common in wooded areas. It can be found in every state except Alaska and Hawaii.
• Most people are allergic to poison ivy and develop an itchy rash (allergic contact dermatitis).

Poison Oak - allergic reaction on contact

Poison Oak grows as a vine or shrub and is similar to poison ivy.

• The main thing to look for with poison oak is the 3-leaf pattern, similar to poison ivy.  (it also can be, but is rarely, 5 or more).
• The leaves have toothed edges similar to oak leaves (instead of the smooth edges of poison ivy).
• Poison Oak turns bright red in the fall.
• It is commonly found in coastal plains and wooded areas. It can be found in every state except Alaska and Hawaii.
• Most people are allergic to poison ivy and develop an itchy rash (allergic contact dermatitis).

Poison Sumac - allergic reaction on contact

Poison Sumac grows as a tall shrub or short tree.

• It has slender leaflets with no hair on the stem.
• The top of the leaflet is the only single leaf, the rest are paired off.
• This plant grows in swampy areas and turns bright red in the fall. It can be found in every state except Alaska and Hawaii.
• Most people are allergic to poison ivy and develop an itchy rash (allergic contact dermatitis).

TREATMENT

If you think you have come in contact with one of these plants, you can actually prevent the rash if you treat the affected area quickly! Start with washing your hands or you can rinse off with rubbing alcohol if in a pinch. Keep in mind that what is causing the rash is a greasy oil - some form of dishwashing soap will have better results than typical bath soaps/bars. Use warm water, as that will also help cut through the oil. Apply cortisone cream to the rash if you have it to help take down the swelling and redness. If you do get the rash near your eyes, go see a doctor, as permanent damage can occur. Next, quarantine your clothes (if you are camping) and wash them as soon as you can. The oily resin that causes the rash can stay on clothes and skin and cause irritation later if it is not washed thoroughly. Wash clothes separately than other loads in hot water. If you had any tools that may have gotten touched with the plants or affected body parts, be sure to wash them with hot water and soap (or rubbing alcohol) as well! 

Never burn any part of these plants (and it goes without saying to be sure not to eat them!) - they can cause serious issues if ingested. If you do happen to breathe in smoke tainted with them or get the plant in or near your mouth, visit a doctor!

This is a great time of year to get more mindful and pay attention to our surroundings. Wearing crew socks (that come up higher) and hiking shoes can help protect your ankles and can help you avoid coming into contact with the lower bushes while you are out and about. The more we practice paying attention and looking for something, the easier it gets to spot! Always keep an eye out for the common three-leaf configuration. It is a pretty solid rule of thumb to follow and easier to remember that way. 

Remember - knowledge is power, so keep your eyes peeled and happy hiking!