Allergic skin rashes arise if the skin was exposed to an allergen. It is important to note that allergic contact dermatitis manifests if the body perceives a foreign substance as a threat and releases chemicals
This triggers redness, swelling and itchiness characteristic of allergic skin rashes. Various vines are known to trigger these allergic reactions.
Poison ivy
Poison ivy is a well-known vine capable of triggering allergic skin rashes. The reddened, itchy blisters arise if the skin is in contact with the leaves of the plant which leaves an adhesive resin known as urushiol on the skin surface.
Exposure to urushiol can occur from touching the root or stem of the plant or from brushing against another object.
The plant is typically found in forests and can grow as a plant, vine or bush. It is characterized by leaves that form in 3 sets with smooth or saw-toothed edges. The green-colored leaf of the plant turns red during autumn.
Poison oak
Poison oak takes on various forms – ground cover, shrub or vine. It is included in the same family as poison ivy with leaves grouped in 3 sets. The leaves are shiny while the edges can be smooth or lobed. Similar with poison ivy, the plant also contains urushiol.
Kiwi vine
The vines that produce kiwis can cause an allergic reaction. The kiwi plant contains the allergen proteinase actinidin. Aside from the allergic skin rashes it causes, exposure of the fruit and its vines can trigger hives and irritant contact dermatitis which occurs once the natural protective barrier of the skin is disrupted.