Poison ivy
Poison Ivy (Toxicodendron radicans)
Poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans) is a noxious plant native to North America known for causing an itchy, irritating, and sometimes painful rash in most people who touch it, due to an oily resin called urushiol. The pronunciation of poison ivy is /ˈpɔɪzən ˈaɪvi/.
Etymology
The term "poison ivy" was first recorded in the 1780s. The word "poison" is derived from the Latin potionem meaning "a drink" or "poisonous draught", while "ivy" comes from the Old English ifig, possibly from the Proto-Germanic ibahs.
Description
Poison ivy is a deciduous plant that can grow as a vine or shrub. It is characterized by its clusters of three almond-shaped leaves. The color of the leaves can vary from light green (usually in spring), to dark green (usually in summer), and then to a bright red in fall.
Effects and Treatment
Contact with poison ivy can cause a type of contact dermatitis, a skin reaction resulting in red, itchy rashes, and blisters. The rash is caused by an allergic reaction to the urushiol oil in the plant. Treatment typically involves washing the affected area with soap and water to remove the oil and applying over-the-counter creams to relieve itching. In severe cases, prescription medication may be required.
Prevention
Prevention of poison ivy rash involves avoiding contact with the plant. This can be achieved by learning to identify the plant and wearing protective clothing when in areas where poison ivy grows.
Related Terms
- Urushiol: An oily mixture of organic compounds with allergenic properties, found in poison ivy and related plants.
- Contact dermatitis: A type of skin inflammation caused by contact with certain substances.
- Deciduous: A term used to describe trees or shrubs that shed their leaves annually.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Poison ivy
- Wikipedia's article - Poison ivy
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