Wild plant with toxic sap that 'eats away at your skin' is spreading

CHICAGO (FOX 32 News) - When you go outside this summer, beware of the poisonous weed Wild Parsnip, which grows in nearly all 50 U.S. states, including Illinois.

Wendy Prusha of Iowa, was exposed to Wild Parsnip while working in her yard. She developed a rash and ended up in the emergency room.

"It's a constant burning. It just bubbled up overnight," she told KCCI. "The oils sit on your skin, it's a constant burning and it eats away your skin."

Parsnip is yellow and can grow about four feet tall. When parsnip weed comes into contact with skin and is exposed to sunlight, it induces a rash similar to severe burns.

If you are exposed to a poisonous plant, the Center for Disease Control recommends: