Important facts regarding the poisonous ivy plant have been revealed by a US dermatologist. The findings could help tackle the skin problem breakouts in a proper way and they also add to outdoor safety this summer.

He came up with the facts in view of the different reports and alarming rumors, according to which, the plant could have a great impact and lead to higher rates of itchy rashes. According to a professor at Pennsylvania State University at Hershey, Dr.David Adams, during the past 15 years, sternness of poison ivy and several cases associated with it have led to some change.

He said a substance called urushiol oil, which is present within the plant's stem, leaves and roots leads to the rashes.

The most severe cases are seen in summertime. Dr. Adams said that there is a small increase in cases during the winter holidays. According to Dr. Adams, "What happens is that people buy a live Christmas tree, and there are dead vines on it that they rip off, not knowing what they are. The urushiol oil inside is still viable”.

According to reports, while removing weeds from areas such as front yards, people could get poison ivy rashes. The irritation is felt only after some time on the basis of previous exposure to urushiol oil.

If a person has been exposed to the oil before, the rash appears quickly in just one to two days so the effect varies.