Left: Poison oak (Toxicodendron diversilobum) is described as a shrub, but it often grows like a climbing vine on the trunks of live trees. Right: Poison oak (A) and a related, look-alike shrub Rhus trilobata (B) that also belongs to the sumac family (Anacardiaceae).
Urushiol is the name of the toxic substance in the sap that causes allergic contact dermatitis in people. Urushiol not only affects the skin but it also may be carried in ash and as minute droplets in smoke from burning foliage. Since it is a resin, urushiol is only found on plant surfaces if leaves and stems are bruised. Urushiol causes a complicated, delayed allergic reaction with the body’s immune system. It is technically classified as a cell-mediated immune response and may take days or weeks to reach full reaction potential.
The native Americans had many effective herbal remedies for survival in the wilderness. Herbs that break down the resin Urushiol can be used in response to exposure to poison oak and are available in our office.
For more information call 916-351-9355 for a free 15 minute consultation. Appointments are also available for acute treatment upon request.
Dr. Michele Raithel, ND