Poison Ivy

Poison Ivy? What does it look like?(1)

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Where is poison ivy found?

• Almost everywhere in the United States (2)
  • Poison ivy is commonly found in the eastern part of the United States.
  • They are not found in higher elevation such as the Rocky Mountain, and they are not seen at all in Alaska or Hawaii.
  • They are normally found in shrubs, trees, vines and sometimes ocean beaches.

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• Mechanism of Action:(3)
  • Urushiol is a chemical that is released as a defense mechanism for poison ivy
  • Urushiol is too small of a molecule that it does not activate an immune response
  • Urushiol is oxidized to form two double bonded oxygen.

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• • • The double bond makes it easier for small skin proteins to latch them.

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• Purpose: (4)
  • When people hear poison ivy, the first thing that comes into mind is a dangerous plant. However, the plant is not dangerous and also does not always lead to suffering either. In fact, poison ivy are used to treat pain, rheumatoid arthritis, menstrual period problems, swelling, and itchy skin disorders.

• Toxicokinectics:

• • Urushiol, the oily substance that is found in poison ivy, is readily absorbed through the skin. Therefore, an allergic reaction occurs when Urushiol binds with a protein that is found in the skin. From there, you will see a rash showing which demonstrates the sudden reaction. Normally, the rash will do away on its own but with the help of medication, could speed up the healing process.

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• Toxicity(5)
  • Signs & Symptoms

• • • Redness
    • Swelling
    • If inhaled, can cause difficulty breathing
    • Anaphylaxis in extreme situations

Itchiness                              Blisters

• Target Organs for Urushiol: The Skin

• Historical Exposure:(1)
  • Historically, poison ivy was sought to be a good used for medical purposes such as healing skin wounds.
  • Rikou Majima, a Japanese chemist, founded the irritant chemical that is found in poison ivy. The chemical was later called Urushiol, which means lacquer tree in Japanese or Toxicodendron vernicifluum.