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A Poison Ivy Challenge for the Brave

There are a lot of misconceptions about the poison ivy. Let's play this simple trivia and find out how much you know this controversial plant.
Priya Johnson
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Quick Fact
Poison Ivy belongs to a genus Toxicodendron. On contact with the skin, it's known to cause itching, rash, and even dermatitis.
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Quick Fact
The plant sap consists of a compound called 'Urushiol'. This compound is known to cause the allergic reactions. This sap is found in all parts of the plant from stem, root, to leaf, etc.
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Quick Fact
You needn't come in direct contact with a poison ivy plant to develop a rash. Even if you come in contact with garden equipment or any other object that has plant sap on it, you can develop a reaction.
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Quick Fact
This plant does not have thorns. The flowers come in clusters and the grayish white fruit called drupe is consumed by birds and animals. Seeds are spread by these consumers.
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Quick Fact
Not everyone develops an allergic reaction to the sap. The extent of allergy also varies from one person to another.
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Quick Fact
The leaves of the poison ivy are arranged in clusters of three on each stem. This is the easiest way to identify the plant. The leaf color may range from green to brownish red. Fruit and flowers may not be present.
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Quick Fact
One should never burn poison ivy, because the urushiol content in the sap escapes along with the smoke causing respiratory distress and allergies to the inhaler.
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Quick Fact
The symptoms don't develop immediately on exposure and may take a day before the symptoms show up.
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Quick Fact
The rash doesn't spread from one person to another. However, it spreads if you come in contact with a sap-laden glove or equipment used by another person. So be careful!
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Did You Know?
Urushiol compound is present in the sap of the mango tree and also in the rind of the fruit. This is why it's a high possibility for people sensitive to poison ivy to be sensitive to mangoes as well.
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Quick Fact
Wear protective clothing, full-sleeved and long pants and boots. Prevent skin contact. Wear gloves and glasses. Pull them out from the root. This is the easiest and most effective natural way to get rid of them.