The hogweed is a plant with imposing appearance, but also with potentially dangerous health properties. Below is detailed information on how to recognize the plant and why it can be dangerous.
Recognizing hogweed:
There are two species of hogweed in Belgium, of which the giant hogweed is particularly dangerous:
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Giant hogweed:
- Appearance: Can grow up to 5 meters tall, has large white umbels 50 cm to 1 meter in diameter between July and September. The stem is often red-spotted, and the leaves are hairy.
- Where to find: Often along highways, rail lines, waterways, as well as in gardens.
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Common hogweed:
- Resembles the giant hogweed but does not have a red-spotted stem and grows up to 2 meters tall.
Why the bear claw is dangerous:
- Phototoxic reaction: The sap of the giant hogweed is phototoxic, which means that when in contact with the skin and exposed to sunlight (UV rays), it can cause serious skin lesions similar to burns.
- Symptoms: After contact, blisters and severe skin rashes may develop after 24 hours or later. These lesions heal slowly and may leave hyperpigmentation (brown discoloration) of the skin.
- Eye contact: In contact with the eyes, the sap can cause permanent blindness in severe cases.
- Toxicity: The juice is also toxic when ingested.
What to do in case of contact:
- Rinse the skin thoroughly with water immediately if there has been contact with the juice.
- In case of contact with eyes, rinse profusely and seek immediate medical attention.
- Change clothes if they have been in contact with the juice.
- Avoid exposure to sunlight for at least one week. Cover the skin with clothing and use sunscreen with high sun protection factor.
- Consult a physician if skin lesions appear.
How to avoid problems:
- Do not touch the plant and teach children to avoid the plant.
- Never let children make whistles or blow pipes from the hollow stems.
- Wear gloves and protective clothing when touching the plant during gardening activities.
- Avoid walking or playing in places where giant hogweed grows.
- Request the municipality's green services to remove the plant if it grows near children's playgrounds.
By taking these precautions, you can minimize the risks of hogweed and prevent accidents.
