Several hogweed species such as giant hogweed were brought to Germany as ornamental plants in the 19th century. In recent decades, the impressive plant has spread greatly.
Is it dangerous to touch hogweed?
Mosthogweed species are poisonous. Even touching giant hogweed can have serious consequences. Giant hogweed is phototoxic and severe burns occur at the contact points in sunshine.
Why is it dangerous to touch giant hogweed?
When you touch giant hogweed, thetoxin furocoumarin is transferred to your skin This substance destroys the skin's natural UV protection. If sunlight falls on the affected areas, severe sunburn occurs, mostly second or third degree. The burns can cause large blisters, requiring hospital treatment.
How do I treat the burns?
If you or your children have touched giant hogweed, you musttreat the area immediately Rinse off the plant sap with soap and water or rubbing alcohol. Even if you only have water on hand, use it to rinse off. Try to protect the skin of the affected area from the sun as much as possible. Apply a burn ointment (€6.00 on Amazon) to the affected areas. If you have severe burns with blisters, you should see a doctor.
Tip
Touching other types of hogweed
Other types of hogweed also contain furocoumarin. However, the concentrations in these plants are significantly lower. In meadow hogweed, the toxic substance only forms during its vegetation phase. That's why young hogweed plants are even edible.
