National Institutes of Health - The primary NIH organization for
research on Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac is the National Institute
of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases If you spend
time outdoors, chances are you have been bothered by poison ivy,
poison oak or poison sumac at some point. Most people are
sensitive to the plants' oily sap. The sap is in the root,
stems, leaves and fruit of these plants. If it gets on your
skin, it causes a blistering skin rash. The rash can range from
mild to severe, depending on how much sap gets on your skin and
how sensitive you are to it. Problems can also happen if the
plants are burned. Airborne sap-coated soot can get into the
eyes, nose, throat and respiratory system. The best way to avoid
the rash is to learn what the plants look like and stay away
from them. If you come into contact with the plants, wash your
skin and clothing right away. If you develop a rash, ask your
pharmacist about over-the-counter medicines. For severe rashes,
see your doctor. Nationa