Rhus toxicodendron Poison oak (Anacardiaceae) Deciduous shrub

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Rhus toxicodendron
Poison oak
Deciduous shrub
(1 Page of 5)

The Rhus toxicodendron plant species is found in Southeastern N. America - New Jersey to Delaware, south to Georgia, Alabama and Texas. It is a member of the Anacardiaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Poison oak. Some home gardeners know the variety as R. quercifolia. Toxicodendron radicans. T. pubescens. P.Mill.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Rhus toxicodendron
Common Name:  Poison oak
Family:  Anacardiaceae
Author:  L.

Known Hazards:  This plant contains toxic substances and skin contact with it can cause severe irritation to some people[11]. The sap is extremely poisonous[11]. The sap contains 3-N pentadecycatechnol. Many people are exceedingly sensitive to this, it causes a severe spreading dermatitis. The toxins only reach the skin if the plant tissues have been damaged, but even indirect contact can cause severe problems[200].

Mature Height:  0.6   Mature Width:  1

Habitat:  Dry barrens, pinelands and sands[43].

Medicinal Information: Poison oak has occasionally been used medicinally, though it is an extremely poisonous plant and great caution should be exercised. Any herbal use should only be undertaken under the supervision of a qualified practitioner. See also the notes above on toxicity. A fluid extract of the fresh leaves is irritant, narcotic, rubefacient and stimulant[4]. It has been used with some success in the treatment of paralysis, obstinate herpatic eruptions, palsey and in various forms of chronic and obstinate eruptive diseases[4]. A mash of the leaves has been used to treat ringworm[213]. An external application has also been used in the treatment of herpes sores[213]. A poultice of the plant has been used to treat infectious sores on the lips[257]. The root has been used to make a poultice and salve in the treatment of chronic sores and swollen glands[257]. A homeopathic remedy is made from the fresh leaves[232]. These should be harvested of a night-time, during damp weather and before the plant flowers[232]. This remedy has a wide range of applications and is one of the main treatments for mumps[232], it is also used in a wide range of skin disorders[4].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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