Fact Checked
Nettle is a broad leafted plant that cause a hive-like rash and burning sensation after being touched. The rash can be caused by the presence of hair found on the leaves or the nettle plant. When an individual touches the plant, these small hairs will break off on the skin and release formic acid to the skin. It will also cause histamine that is released by the cells in the skin. These chemicals will cause irritation and the manifestation of rashes which is due to the accumulation of fluids in the skin.
Oftentimes, there is swelling in other parts of the body and if the swelling happens around the lips, eyes, tongue, larynx and hands, it is called as angioneurotic edema.
Symptoms of nettle sting rash
- Red and itchy swelling
- A burning and stinging sensation can be felt
- The affected person can experience cramps, diarrhea and wheezing that is similar to a severe allergic reaction
- The itchy white bumps can last for 24 hours and can happen repeatedly
Treatment and home remedies of nettle skin rash
- You have to cleanse immediately the exposed area of the body with water so that the discomfort will eventually subside.
- Use prescribed over-the-counter antihistamine given by the doctor such as diphenhydramine in order to minimize the severity of the hives and itching. Avoid driving or drinking alcohol until the medications have worn off.
- Apply a cold compress over the affected skin or take a bath in cool water since these helps in minimizing the itching. Avoid hot bath or showers since it will make the rashes and itching worse.
- Make a paste by mixing baking soda and water. This should be diluted with water of ammonia. Apply this paste over the affected area together with a compress to help reduce the itchiness.
- Calamine lotion and aloe vera can also be applied to the rash since these also help minimize the itchiness caused by the rash.
- Mix 4-5 tablespoon of powdered calcium into a cup of water. This should be applied over the itchy area of the body and works by helping neutralize and eliminate itchiness from the nettle sting.
- Using charcoal tablets is helpful with the condition. Crush the charcoal and add a few drops of water. The paste created should be applied over the affected area. This helps in removing the toxins and poison from the affected area.
- Prepare ¼ cup of dried leaves or plantain using a liter of boiled water. Allow it to precipitate at least for 20-30 minutes and apply over the affected area of the skin.
Tips in preventing nettle sting
- Search carefully for a stinger in the area that was exposed to the plant that sometimes remains inside the skin. Remember that these should be pulled out. Do not attempt to remove it with a needle or blade since it might go deeper into the skin and make the condition worse.
- The individual should avoid scratching the affected area since it can cause a secondary infection.