Stinging Nettle

Stinging Nettle still around!! Despite the cold, stinging nettle is still around! Beware of this plant called Stinging Nettle found along hiking trails and streams with its characteristic green tapered tip leaves that bear tiny spines or hairs.  Within seconds of contact, sharp stinging and burning on the skin can occur. Hives and itching can be intense! Topical steroids and antihistamines can be considered as treatment in addition to soap and water to remove the chemicals causing the hives (urticaria) and irritant dermatitis from the toxin.