DrFeb
Health Guide

Poison Ivy

Poison Ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) is a toxic plant found across North America, notorious for causing severe allergic contact dermatitis. It contains urushiol, a chemical oil that triggers an immune response upon contact. While many plants offer health benefits, Poison Ivy offers none; it is a hazard to be identified and avoided, not a dietary supplement.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Poison Ivy
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Urushiol Toxicity Threshold (Allergic Response)

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Reaction Severity (Scale 1-10)
Exposure Type →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need to Avoid It

  • Prevents Severe Rashes: Identification is the only 'benefit' to human health.
  • Avoids Systemic Shock: Prevents rare but life-threatening allergic reactions.

Deep Dive

Urushiol is not a nutrient. It is a potent allergen that binds to the skin and triggers T-cell mediated immunity. Unlike a supplement that boosts health, exposure causes the immune system to attack the skin, resulting in oozing blisters. There is no oral consumption benefit; eating the berries or leaves is toxic and poisonous.

Natural Sources (Avoidance Guide)

Plant PartAppearanceRisk Level
Spring LeavesReddish, shinyHigh
Summer LeavesGreen, glossyHigh
Fall LeavesRed/OrangeHigh
BerriesWhite/CreamHigh

Supplementation

DO NOT SUPPLEMENT. Poison Ivy is not sold as a supplement. If you see a product claiming to be 'Poison Ivy' for immune health, it is a misidentification or a scam. The only 'usage' is strictly botanical identification to ensure safety.

Top Food Sources

Poison Ivy
Strictly Toxic - Do Not Consume
Poison Oak
Strictly Toxic - Do Not Consume
Poison Sumac
Strictly Toxic - Do Not Consume

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Repeated exposure often makes the allergic reaction worse, not better. Do not attempt to 'desensitize' yourself.
Absolutely not. Burning urushiol releases the oil into the smoke, which can cause severe, life-threatening internal allergic reactions in the lungs and eyes.
Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis) is a traditional remedy often found growing near Poison Ivy. It may soothe mild itching, but it does not remove the urushiol oil or cure the rash.
Yes. The oil transfers easily to fur. Wash your dog thoroughly with pet-safe soap to protect yourself and your family.

Safety & Side Effects

Who should avoid it? Everyone. It is not a food or drug.

Immediate Action on Contact:

  1. Wash the area with cool water and dish soap (like Dawn) immediately. Urushiol is oil-soluble; soap removes it.
  2. Wash under fingernails.
  3. Wash contaminated clothing and tools.

Medical Warning: If you have ingested Poison Ivy or have a rash covering your face or genitals, seek medical attention immediately.

Scientific References

  • [1]Kligman, A. M. (1958). 'Poison Ivy (Rhus) Dermatitis'. *Archives of Dermatology*.
  • [2]Gross, M., et al. (2021). 'Urushiol: The Toxic Oil of Poison Ivy'. *Journal of Chemical Education*.
  • [3]American Academy of Dermatology. 'Poison Ivy, Oak, and Summon: Prevention and Treatment'.