Poison oak/ivy/etc carry the allergenic compounds in all of the fluid witin the plant. Hence, while the leaves carry the majority of the compounds, the stems, seeds, and even roots also can cause reactions. Nobody is completly immune to it's effects, but some people have a much greater tolerance than others. This tolerance also changes over the years- I used to be virtually immune to the effects of poison ivy, but now I break out (albeit very slightly) if I come into contact with it. I would not recommend using any part of poison oak for decorations- even if it doesn't cause you ill effects, it might cause problems for your herps or other people in your household. As I recall, the toxin can be removed by boiling, but I would never suggest doing so, as the vapors can enter a person's lungs and will cause damage or even death, regardless of your normal tolerance to the plant.

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• Poison oak branches for cage furniture - jrbl, Sat Oct 30 03:48:23 2004
• LOL dude you just broke me out - junglehabitats, Sat Oct 30 08:49:11 2004
• RE: Poison oak branches for cage furniture - coolhl7, Sat Oct 30 19:52:41 2004
• RE: Poison oak branches for cage furniture - Heretic, Sun Oct 31 12:13:32 2004