The stinging nettle is an herbaceous plant that most of us are familiar with because of its annoying and painful sting. But it is not a weed and is in fact a useful herb, with great medicinal value. This herbaceous flowering plant is found pretty much all over the world, so its no wonder that every year there are many of us who are unfortunate enough to come in contact with the plant in what would be far from the ideal circumstances. If the leaves or stem of the plant make any direct contact with your bear skin you would experience a painful and irritating rash very much like a poison ivy rash. This is because the leaves and stem of the plant are coated with tiny hairs that are brittle and hollow and contain a histamine that causes skin irritation, serotonin, and acetylcholine, which is responsible for the burning sensation.
In the summer months and spring, nettle stings are particularly common place as we tend to spend a lot more time outdoors. Hiking, trekking, and all of the other outdoor sports do bring us in to closer contact with nature, so we are more vulnerable and greater precautions are needed. Nettle stings are however not very serious and can be treated very effectively with natural remedies. If you do suffer an allergy however you may need medical assistance.
If you do get a nettle sting there are certain measures you can take immediately:
Move away from the area you were in when stung, as there's always a chance you may get stung again.
Since you're unlikely to be carrying vinegar or baking soda around in your knapsack, just use some clean and cool water to clean the area and get rid of any mud or dirt that may have accumulated. You can also use a clean cloth or towel soaked in the water. Do not rub the area when cleansing or apply unnecessary pressure as this will only further aggravate the skin.
The dock plant is frequently touted as a remedy for nettle stings and the plant generally is found growing in the vicinity of nettles. Its effectiveness is suspect however, with many vouching for it, and others questioning it. It however, doesn't cost you a thing, and being easily available at the very site you get the sting, it is well worth a try. When cleansing the skin also make sure that you do not touch the affected area directly and then touch any other body parts as you may transfer some of the plant residue, spreading the rash further. Baking soda and alkaline ingredients like cucumber, lettuce or avocado, can be applied gently on to the area.
answered by S D