Poison Oak

The name poison oak given to the shrub-like forms of poison ivy and to at least two similar plants that are usually considered separate species of the cashew family, Anacardiaceae. Poison Oak can be a bush, vine, root, tree. Poison Oak is usually not found above 4000 feet elevation (1219 metres).

Poison oak in the southeastern United States, Rhus quercifolia, has leaves divided into three leaflets; the leaflets are densely haired and generally have three to seven distinct lobes. The white, berry-like fruits are also somewhat hairy. The poison oak of the U.S. Pacific coast, R. diversiloba, is a shrubby or sometimes climbing plant that grows to 2.4 m (8 ft) high; its three-leaflet leaves are toothed or lobed and are hairless. Both species contain poisonous substances that are believed to be identical or closely related to that found in poison ivy.

Poison oak leaves and berries, photo courtesy U of Florida

Remedies for poison oak rash (none endorsed):

Do nothing. If you don't do anything, you'll be totally miserable for about 2 weeks, maybe less, depending on how bad it is.

Does Calamine lotion help? It may help a bit for minor affliction.

Does hot water help? Hot water makes it feel better only so long as you are running hot water over it. As soon as you stop it feels a whole lot worse. Other people find that hot water can help.

The mugwort plant is said to have a soothing effect on Poison Oak and may possibly prevent an outbreak if applied quickly and often. Bruise the Mugwort leaves and rub on the exposed area. Poison Oak and Mugwort often grow near each other.

Aloe vera from the plant helps dry it locally. Problem with poison oak is that is gets into your blood and comes out in other areas of the body. Hot water aggravates, bright sunlight irritates, and sweating makes poison oak it feel worse. Mud packs help to draw the poison out of the skin. Rinse with cold water.

Homemade soap made from jewelweed, nettle, comfrey leaves, plantain, burdock, and aloe vera extracts and tallow, lard, olive oil, and lye.

From the American Academy of Dermatology Association: "A rash from poison ivy, poison oak or poison sumac is caused by an oil found in these plants called urushiol. When this oil touches your skin, it often causes an itchy, blistering rash. Most people can safely treat the rash at home." If you have more severe reactions such as difficulty swallowing or breathing, a rash on particularly sensitive areas, or swelling (such as if an eye swells shut), go to the emergency room.

For more information:
The Cleveland Clinic - Poison Ivy, Poison Oak, and Poison Sumac

The Mayo Clinic - Poison Ivy Rash

WebMD - Treatments for Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac

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