Giant Hogweed is a large plant found by rivers in Ireland. It is not that common and is often mixed up with common hogweed but the sap is highly dangerous of giant hogweed so it should be avoided.
RECOGNIZING THE PLANT
1. GIANT - Grows over 4 metres before flowering
COMMON - Grows max 2 - 3 metres
2. GIANT - Grows mostly beside fresh water (river or streams)
COMMON - Grows mostly on roadsides but almost anywhere
3. GIANT - 50 or more stems to flower
COMMON - 20 stems to flower
4. GIANT - Smooth stem and smooth shiny large leaves
COMMON - Hairy stem and soft smaller leaves
The problem with Giant Hogweed is not the poisoning but the reaction it has with your skin. It removes any protection from UV light which means the area will burn terrible when it comes in contact with sunlight.
TREATMENT
1. Cover area straight away from sunlight
2. Go inside and wash area with COLD water and soap
3. Keep exposed area way from any sunlight for 48 hours
MEDICAL HELP
1. If any blistering starts seek medical help - This may be when you come in contact with the sap but up to 48 hours after
2. If any sap gets in the eyes then wash straight away, cover eyes with eye pads or sunglasses and seek immediate medical help
FOLLOW UP
1. Your skin can be sensitive for up to several years after coming in contact with the SAP so use full sunblock to protect the areas
2. Scarring can be present for some time after the burns
**GIANT HOGWEED BURNS**
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Giant Hogweed is a large plant found by rivers in Ireland. It is not that common and is often mixed up with common hogweed but the sap is highly dangerous of giant hogweed so it should be avoided.
RECOGNIZING THE PLANT
1. GIANT - Grows over 4 metres before flowering
COMMON - Grows max 2 - 3 metres
2. GIANT - Grows mostly beside fresh water (river or streams)
COMMON - Grows mostly on roadsides but almost anywhere
3. GIANT - 50 or more stems to flower
COMMON - 20 stems to flower
4. GIANT - Smooth stem and smooth shiny large leaves
COMMON - Hairy stem and soft smaller leaves
The problem with Giant Hogweed is not the poisoning but the reaction it has with your skin. It removes any protection from UV light which means the area will burn terrible when it comes in contact with sunlight.
TREATMENT
1. Cover area straight away from sunlight
2. Go inside and wash area with COLD water and soap
3. Keep exposed area way from any sunlight for 48 hours
MEDICAL HELP
1. If any blistering starts seek medical help - This may be when you come in contact with the sap but up to 48 hours after
2. If any sap gets in the eyes then wash straight away, cover eyes with eye pads or sunglasses and seek immediate medical help
FOLLOW UP
1. Your skin can be sensitive for up to several years after coming in contact with the SAP so use full sunblock to protect the areas
2. Scarring can be present for some time after the burns
