Are Poison Ivy (and Oak?) stems dangerous in the winter, or are the leaves the only problem?... ..."Oh No!", Nature Boy wasn't out streaking in the woods , just wondering if it can get it on the outside of my clothes and cause a rash later???
I would expect if you were highly alergic and tramping in woods in winter you could have a reaction to the dead leaves on the ground. I have read even burning the leaves can cause problems. Found this: Urushiol oil stays active on any surface, including dead plants, for up to 5 years
Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac plants are dangerous in the winter. If you or anyone would like additional information on how to identify these plants, or on the prevention and treatment of the allergic reaction associated their toxin, please call me at 1-800-401-4002, menu option one. Thanks! Dan Boelman RN, BSN Customer Service Manager Zanfel Laboratories, Inc.
The word is that you CAN get poison ivy from working with the vine in winter AND you can get it in your lungs if you burn it and breathe the smoke. Gack!