Russians have been warned about the hidden dangers of suburban plants

In spring and during the summer season, contact with the juice of certain plants in combination with sunlight can lead to skin burns and persistent pigmentation. Elena Prokudina, a dermatovenerologist at the State Scientific Center for Dermatovenerology and Cosmetology of the Russian Ministry of Health, told Izvestia about this on April 16.

"Phytophotodermatitis is an inflammatory skin reaction that occurs when combined with contact with the juice of certain plants and subsequent exposure to ultraviolet radiation. By themselves, the substances contained in these plants (furocoumarins) may not cause immediate symptoms, but under the influence of the sun they trigger a phototoxic reaction resembling a chemical burn," she noted.

According to the expert, the risk of such reactions is especially high during the summer and tourist season. The most well—known source is hogweed, but burns can also be caused by more familiar foods such as celery, parsley, parsnips, carrots, as well as citrus fruits and figs.

The expert explained that the symptoms do not appear immediately, but after a few hours or the next day. These include redness, burning, swelling, and blistering. A characteristic feature is the specific "pattern" of the lesion in the form of stripes or spots that repeat the traces of juice on the skin. After healing, persistent pigmentation may persist.

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Prokudina stressed that for prevention, it is necessary to use protective clothing and gloves when working with plants, avoid contact with juice and thoroughly wash the skin after work or cooking outdoors. It is also recommended to use sunscreens.

"If there is pronounced redness, blisters or soreness on the skin, you should not self—medicate - it is better to consult a dermatologist. This will help to stop the reaction faster and reduce the risk of prolonged pigmentation," the specialist concluded.

Sergey Kerselyan, Chairman of the Moscow State Duma Committee on Agrarian Policy and Consumer Market, said on March 17 that owners of land plots in the Moscow region should remove Sosnovsky hogweed on their territory, as individuals face a fine of 5,000 rubles for its growth.

Lawyer Sofya Lukinova noted on March 10 that land owners may face serious fines due to the weed. The fight against hogweed is now considered by the state as an important environmental task.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.