Other Options For Poison Ivy Removal

A poison ivy rash is caused by exposure to the oil urushiol found in the leaves, vines and stems of the plant. The oil is a strong allergen that can cause itching, swelling and redness of the skin and mucous membranes in some individuals. One common mistakes when removing poison ivy is pulling it out without protection. Pets that have walked through poison ivy can also be a source of contamination. According to the Food and Drug Administration, urushiol can remain on items such as gardening tools, camping gear or clothes for years unless the surfaces are treated with rubbing alcohol.

Poison ivy grows in many kinds of habitats, from deep woods to the open; in dry sandy areas or crevices of rocks; along creek banks or roadsides; and even in flower beds and shrubbery. It can grow as a low-growing, dense, mat-like mass or as a climbing vine.

Hand-pulling is one of the best methods for removing poison ivy, because it allows you to remove the entire plant down to the roots. However, it’s labor intensive and can be time-consuming. If you have large areas of poison ivy to deal with, hiring professional landscapers to use an herbicide may be more cost effective and time-saving.

Herbicides, typically containing the compound glyphosate, can be sprayed on poison ivy and other unwanted plants. This approach is much quicker than digging out the plants by hand and can eliminate all the vines in a small area. It’s important to spray the poison ivy when the leaves are fully out and dry, so the herbicide has a chance to soak in down to the roots.

Using a commercial weed killer is another option, but it should be used carefully. It’s important to read and follow the label instructions. It’s also essential to wear proper safety equipment. This includes long pants, a long-sleeved shirt and gloves. It’s a good idea to wear safety glasses, too, in case a thorn or leaf flies into your eyes.

A rash from poison ivy can begin within hours of contact with the plant and can last up to five days. To prevent infection of the abrasions, wash the affected areas right away with soap and water. Be sure to scrub under your fingernails, too, and keep them short to avoid broken skin that can let bacteria in and lead to a secondary rash or infection.

Cool compresses can relieve itching and swelling. Soak a clean washcloth in cold or lukewarm water and apply it to the affected skin as needed. Lukewarm baths or showers with colloidal oatmeal can also be soothing and reduce itching. Anti-itch creams containing calamine or hydrocortisone can help reduce the severity of a rash. If a rash becomes severe, see your doctor, who may prescribe a more powerful steroid cream or oral steroid medication.

To help prevent poison ivy from growing again, remove debris such as dead leaves and branches that touch the ground or vines that climb nearby plants. Also, be careful not to burn any plants that are contaminated with poison ivy. Smoke from burning can carry the urushiol to other parts of the garden or surrounding vegetation and trigger a reaction in susceptible people.