Join Wall Street Journal reporter Jeff Horwitz as he embarks on a wild experiment to see if eating poison oak can build tolerance. Hear about the outrageous consequences of foraging adventures and personal anecdotes that reveal the risks he took. Discover how this daring inquiry into allergens ties into the pursuit of scientific curiosity, blending humor and unexpected lessons. Jeff’s brave, if not reckless, journey sheds light on serious topics like digital security while maintaining a light-hearted approach to scientific exploration.
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Quick takeaways
An investigative reporter engaged in self-experimentation by consuming poison oak to explore the possibility of developing tolerance, with mixed results.
The podcast discusses the historical context and caution surrounding self-experimentation with allergens, highlighting the tension between personal and medical approaches.
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Attempting Immunity: The Poison Oak Experiment
An investigative reporter undertook an unconventional approach to build immunity against poison oak by consuming the plant itself. Initially skeptical, he found community discussions online that claimed success in developing tolerance through ingestion. He meticulously monitored his dosage, gradually increasing the amount of poison oak consumed and even prepared dishes such as teas and smoothies. Although he faced significant discomfort from a systemic reaction after a mega dosage, he ultimately believed he had achieved a level of immunity.
Historical Context and Scientific Skepticism
The podcast delves into the historical attempts to create medicinal solutions for poison oak and related plants, with some indigenous practices demonstrating success in building immunity. Despite past research and promising results from test cases, the pharmaceutical industry failed to standardize effective treatments, leading to a lack of accessible options today. The scientific community expresses caution about the safety and efficacy of self-experimentation, emphasizing that individual responses to allergens can vary widely. This narrative highlights the tension between personal experimentation and established medical protocols, questioning the legitimacy of DIY remedies.
Probably not. But Wall Street Journal reporter Jeff Horwitz decided to try anyway, putting his body — and specifically his butt — on the line to answer a seemingly straightforward question: Is it possible to build up a tolerance to poison oak by eating it?
Guest: Jeff Horwitz, reporter at the Wall Street Journal; and Mahmoud ElSohly, professor of pharmaceutics at the University of Mississippi