How does poison oak cause rashes?
Poison oak is best known for containing poison – or, to be more accurate, an oil called urushiol which causes an allergic reaction if it is absorbed by the skin. Although not everyone who comes into contact with poison oak will experience such a reaction, around 85% of people will. Urushiol-induced contact dermatitis is common, and most people are familiar with the symptoms: a bumpy red rash, inflamed or swollen areas, blisters, burning sensations, and unbearable itching. Urushiol oil is present in the leaves, roots, and stems of poison oak, and is very easily transferred by even the lightest brush against the plant. It will rub off on whatever has made contact with the plant, whether that’s clothing, skin, even the fur of an inquisitive pet! Whether your skin receives its dose of urushiol directly from the poison oak, or from touching affected clothing or objects, the effect will be the same. Many people are unaware that you don’t actually need to touch poison oak to experience the ef
