| Hi Bev. Stinging Nettle has hollow hairs on the underside of its leaves, on its stem and on the veins along the top part of its leaves. When you brush past the plant, these tiny hairs break off in your skin and release formic acid into your skin. This causes a stinging sensation, as well as redness, white bumps and itchiness that can last up to 24 hours. It is possible it could last longer but definitely not as long as PI. I would treat it like PI, using the same remedies for itching until the bumps go away. Ice cubes rubbed on the rash works well to relieve swelling & itching. Soaking your hand in very cold water cold help until the acid dissipates from under your skin. Gardening gloves or Playtex dishwashing gloves should be worn next time you weed! Take care :) [email protected] |
