During the summer, many people enjoy immersing themselves in nature and tending to flowers and plants. However, for Chinese immigrants, especially those who have recently arrived in the United States, they are often unfamiliar with some of the poisonous plants in the East Coast region. When coming into contact with these plants, the consequences can range from mild itching to severe skin burns, swelling, and difficulty walking.
One of the most common plants is Poison Ivy, known scientifically as Toxicodendron radicans and referred to as “毒藤” (Du Teng) by the Chinese community. This plant has three leaves, with the middle leaf being the largest and having a distinct stem; the two small leaves on the sides are usually asymmetrical. It is especially common in wooded areas, trails, and grasslands in New York State; belonging to the vine family, it can climb heights of up to 75 feet, resembling a shrub or tree.
According to health department data, Poison Ivy accounts for the highest number of cases reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States, with at least 350,000 cases each year. The plant’s sap contains a resin oil called urushiol, which many people are allergic to, leading to symptoms like skin rashes and severe itching.
A resident of upstate New York, Xiao Li, encountered Poison Ivy in his own garden. Initially, he only felt some itching on his face and body, but after 3 to 4 days, his entire body was covered in small red bumps oozing yellow fluid, causing unbearable itching. His face swelled up, his eyes almost shut, making him unrecognizable to his family.
“I had to take sick leave for over half a month at home, and finally recovered by using a special cream called tecnu for treating Poison Ivy, along with oatmeal baths,” he told the newspaper.
Another Chinese resident, Jenny, also recently came into contact with Poison Ivy, experiencing severe swelling on her legs for nearly a month, making it difficult for her to walk.
“When working in gardens or forests, make sure to cover your arms,” she warned. “If you suspect contact with Poison Ivy, immediately wash with soapy water. I didn’t pay attention at first, leading to such severe symptoms.”
Another common plant in New York is Giant Hogweed, known as “大豬草” (Da Zhu Cao) in Chinese. Despite its ordinary and attractive appearance, this plant can grow up to 1-2 meters tall, with green large leaves on branches and distinctive white umbrella-shaped flowers.
According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), Giant Hogweed is a biennial or perennial plant that can grow up to 14 feet or higher. Originally from the Caucasus mountains, it was introduced to the United States in the early 20th century and is commonly found in fields, forests, yards, and roadsides in the New England region. It thrives in sunny and moist soil conditions.
The plant’s sap contains harmful chemical substances called furanocoumarins, which, when combined with sunlight, can cause phytophotodermatitis, inhibiting the skin’s ability to protect itself from solar radiation. In extreme cases, it can lead to third-degree burns or blindness.
Skin contact with the sap of Giant Hogweed can cause a reaction within 15 minutes, leading to painful blisters within 48 hours, turning black and pigmented, with scars lasting up to 6 years.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation recommends applying sunscreen and wearing long waterproof gloves when working near this plant, along with long-sleeved clothing, pants, and boots to protect the skin and eyes. If possible, wear synthetic waterproof materials (such as dishwashing gloves, rain gear, and rubber boots), and keep water, soap, and eye wash near the work area to immediately wash if accidentally exposed to the sap.