How can I prevent the rash from poison ivy, oak, and sumac?
The best way to prevent the rash is to learn to identify and avoid the plants. When contact with the plants is unavoidable, heavy clothing (long pants, long-sleeved shirt, and vinyl gloves) may provide some protection. Plant Characteristics: Poison Ivy It is an upright, climbing, or trailing shrub that bears small yellowish-white flower clusters. Its stems are covered with fibrous roots, making them look hairy. The leaves are divided into three glossy or dull green leaflets. Every part of the plant contains a volatile oil (urushiol) that can cause severe inflammation of the skin, itching, and blistering when touched. Most people are allergic to urushiol. It is a very hearty plant that spreads rampantly. The key characteristic is the fact that the two leaves occur in groups of three with the center leaf stem longer than the other two.
