After many years of hiking and backpacking while smugly believing poison ivy is not a threat, I now know better.
Poison ivy is common in Boulder County, growing along ditch banks, in shady areas, and among rock piles. It is also found in the Pikes Peak region, along the Platte River, and the Four Corners area. The “leaves of three, let it be" leaves can be reddish in the early spring, plain green for most of the year, and brilliant red in the fall. Tiny flowers can be yellow or white and the berries are off-white. In our state, it grows less than 2 feet tall.
All parts of the plant are toxic to humans. They produce an oil called urushiol (u-ROO-she-ol) which causes a blistering rash. If you are in an area known to contain poison ivy, wear long sleeves and long pants. Tuck your pants into your socks while in poison ivy territory.
If you are exposed to poison ivy, quickly wash off the oils. Use soap and water, if available. You can use alcohol wipes if that is all you have. After removing the oils, you can try Calamine lotion or zinc oxide cream, or over-the-counter Hydrocortisone cream (1%). Oatmeal baths may be soothing. As always, if you have questions or concerns, give us a call. We are here to help you.
