POISON-IVY, poison-oak, and poison sumac remind most people of painful
experiences to be avoided, yet many do not know any one of the offending
plants or their equally poisonous relatives. Learning to recognize them
on sight is relatively easy, especially by examining the distinctive
identifying characters described in the pictures and legends of this
bulletin. There is then a good chance to avoid them or, if one must work
among them, to take preventive measures to escape poisoning.
These plants are very common throughout the United States. They are
found in fields and woods, along fence rows, rock walls, and hedges,
in lawns and gardens, and even sometimes vining on houses. Usually in
any one locality it is necessary to be certain of the identity of only
two or three of them. Maps show at a glance where they are likely to
be found. Frequent observation and recognition of the plants as they
are encountered almost daily is the best way to become poison-oak or
poison-ivy conscious. Nonpoisonous sumacs are easily distinguished from
the poisonous species by the seed heads and leaves.
The old proverb, "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,"
is good advice to everyone, particularly as regards ivy-poisoning.
Previous escape is not proof of immunity when conditions are right, and
after poisoning occurs there is no quick cure known. Some relief may be
obtained and recovery hastened by use of some of the tested remedies. In
case of severe poisoning a physician should be consulted.
Poison-ivy and other poisonous plants growing in grounds frequented by
people should be eradicated. In some places this can be done by careful
grubbing. In others weed-killing chemicals may be better and more
certainly would avert poisoning for most of us.
This bulletin supersedes Farmers' Bulletin 1166, Poison Ivy and Poison
Sumac and Their Eradication.