Poisonous Plants

Poison ivy, poison sumac and poison sumac are the most common poisonous plants. At different times of the year and in different stages of their life, these plants can have many different looks. They can be small or large, they may look leafy or exist as a hairy looking vine, or may or may not have berries. Coming in contact with the roots, the stem or the leaves can cause an itchy rash.

Plants which have shed their leaves are just as likely to cause a rash as leafy plants. This means that if you come in contact with these plants, you are just as likely to get a rash in the winter as you are in the summer.

If you come in contact with any of these plants, you have 10 to 20 minutes to thoroughly was the area. Be sure to wash your clothing, as touching clothing that has come in contact with a poisonous plant can still cause a rash. Along the same lines, you can also get a rash from coming in contact with a pet who has rubbed against a plant.

If you develop a rash, avoid scratching. Apply calamine lotion to the area, and wear loose fitting clothing. If the rash gets worse or swelling occurs, consult a physician.