Health and Exercise

Poison ivy rash is one of the most uncomfortable experiences a person can go through. The itching is very intense and it looks embarrassing. If you plan on spending any time outside, you should know what the plant looks like and where it is likely to grow. It is not an actual type of ivy but is rather a woody low-growing shrub that can on occasion climb up trees and buildings like regular ivy. Some people are naturally immune to it; most are not.

It grows in Canada, the United States, and Mexico and is almost unheard of anywhere more to the south or east. The woods are the most usual local for the plant, especially near the edges of forests where sunlight is more prominent. That said, do not be surprised to see it in meadows, on lawns, or even in rocky terrain. It really grows almost anywhere which is why it is so tricky. Any amount of sunlight and water in the soil is good enough for the plant.

For outdoorsy type of people, it is a necessity to learn about it. It is innocent looking and blends in easily with other plants. Look for plants that have three leaflets grouped together. The leaves will be almond shaped and are smooth with no teeth. In the spring and autumn the leaves will look reddish but in the summer they are green.

Each bundle comes in an alternating pattern on the vine. You may note that the leaves are slightly shiny, which is the substance the plant makes which gives you such discomfort if you come in to contact with it. It is also a plant that produces a fruit, which many people do not realize. There is often a small gray or white berry on the plant.

A great way to tell if a plant you see is safe or not is to look at the stem or vine. These vines have reddish hair like protrusions the whole length. Often you may not notice them because they climb up trees and you could think it is part of the bark. All tree climbers should be aware. One might also notice that the leaves themselves will have a single notch on one side which makes it look like a mitten.

Rhymes and tricks for remembering the visuals of the plant have been around for centuries. Look up some of the rhymes to help yourself remember. Another interesting fact is that butterflies tend to like poison ivy. Seeing one land on a plant that you are suspicious of is often a good indicator.

Now that you understand all about the looks of ivy, you should learn how to treat the rash if you accidentally stumble across some. It is an experience most people will go through at least once in their lives, given how commonly it grows in the summer. If you experience anything more than a rash, go to the hospital. Severe allergies could shut down your respiratory system or cause black outs.

Keeping your hands away from the rash is the best way to keep from scratching and spreading the substance to other parts of your body. Buy some over-the-counter itch creams that say they are designed for this specific rash. You can also take an oatmeal bath which will soothe you in the way it soothes people with chicken pox.

Are you one of those unlucky individuals who has had a run-in with poison ivy? We have got the super inside skinny on how to treat Poison Ivy Rash and Poison Ivy Blisters .