Beware of Giant hogweed...!
If the threat posed by the species to local biodiversity is not bad enough there is also a huge health risk to think about. Giant hogweed contains furocoumarins, chemicals which can cause phytophotodermatitis (plant-light-skin inflammation), a severe reaction from exposure to the sun after coming into contact with the sap.
This causes burns and blisters to appear two to three days after exposure. These blisters may last months with subsequent reaction occurring for up to 25 years, every time the affected area is exposed to sunlight where it may re-blister years after healing. Contact with the eyes can cause temporary and possibly permanent blindness.
The project officer has alarmingly found that local children are unaware of the danger posed by Giant hogweed and educates them on the dangers though the schools project. Generally children are attracted by its size and hollow stems which they pick for telescopes or pea shooters. Children playing locally throughout the district are almost certain to come into contact with the plant at some stage as they pass it by; to maybe follow that bird or reach that last raspberry bush.
If you come into contact with Giant hogweed you must seek medical advice as soon as possible.
Photo courtesy of: heat4meat.blogspot.com
