Poison sumac
General poisoning notes:
Poison sumac (Rhus
vernix; synonymy Toxicodendron vernix) is a native shrub or vine
found in southern Quebec and southern Ontario. The sap of this plant contains
the allergen urushiol. The chemical is released when plant tissue is damaged.
Humans are highly sensitive to allergic reaction, although at least one
exposure is needed for sensitization. Mild to severe dermatitis can result from
exposure to poison sumac (Mulligan 1990, Gayer and Burnett 1988).
Nomenclature:
Scientific Name: Rhus vernix L.
Vernacular
name(s): poison sumac
Scientific family
name: Anacardiaceae
Vernacular family
name: cashew
Geographic Information
Ontario, Quebec.
Notes on Poisonous plant parts:
Most parts of
poison sumac contain the allergen except the pollen, anthers, xylem, and
epidermis. Damage to plant parts releases the sap that contains the allergen
(Mulligan 1990). The allergen occurs in the plant sap, which is found in all
plant parts except the pollen, anthers, xylem, and epidermis. If the stems are
damaged they can release the allergen, even in the winter. The roots are also
dangerous (Mulligan 1990).
Toxic parts:
All parts, leaves,
mature fruit, plant juices, roots, stems.
Notes on Toxic plant chemicals:
Urushiol, an group
of alkylcatechols, is found in the sap of poison sumac. The allergen is
nonvolatile and can contaminate clothing, tools, and domestic animals. The
allergen can be hazardous for a long time if the contaminated object remains
dry (Gayer and Burnett 1988). See poison-ivy (Rhusradicans) for additional information.
Toxic plant chemicals:
Urushiol oil.
Animals/Human Poisoning:
Note: When an
animal is listed without additional information, the literature (as of 1993)
contained no detailed explanation.
Humans
General symptoms of
poisoning:
blistering
blisters, weeping
itchiness
temperature, elevated
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