While most people can agree that poison ivy is annoying and uncomfortable, there are some things that many people believe about poison ivy that are simply not true. The following is a list of common poison ivy myths and why they just aren't the truth.
- "You can spread it from scratching."
Many people believe that if you scratch poison ivy blisters open, the poison will spread to other parts of the body. While this is possible, it generally doesn't happen because it is not spread by the pus inside the blister. Urushiol, the toxic substance, it is spread by the oil on the plant (which usually isn't inside of the blisters).
- "You will always have an allergic reaction."
The rash you get from poison ivy is a response of the immune system and doesn't always work the same way. Someone who reacted to poison ivy as a child may be completely immune as an adult. It is also important to note that people can develop an allergy to it as they get older.
- "Chewing poison ivy will boost your immunity."
You should never chew poison ivy. Doing so will not increase your immunity and will do nothing but cause you problems, which may include a rash in your throat.
- "You can get it from being around it."
In order for the oil in the poison ivy to cause an allergic reaction, the person must actually touch the oil on the plant or an object that has had direct contact. It cannot be transmitted through the air on its own. It can, however, be released through a fire, so stay away from any type of fire that you know has poison ivy in it.
- "Dead plants won't hurt you."
It is generally a good idea to stay away from any poison ivy, and that even includes the dead kind. The oil that is on the plant can be active for up to five years after the plant has died.
