Stinging nettle has a hard-won reputation for quickly causing painful rashes. Its leaves and stalks are lined with bristly hairs that inject burning acid into the skin when it is disturbed. Stinging nettle, or Urtica dioica, is a native plant common to moist, neglected areas of land. Fortunately, nettle lives in areas that also grow a variety of plants that contain natural antihistamines. Crush the leaves of these plants and rub them on the skin for quick relief.
Symptoms
Symptoms of contact with stinging nettle arise within minutes. The skin displays red and white patches which burn, itch and sting. Irritation may last a few minutes or several hours depending on the sensitivity of the individual.
Plantain
Plantain is a backyard weed that serves to soothe skin agitated by stinging nettle. The astringent qualities of the leaf draw out nettle's defensive acids that trigger inflammation. The Herbal Transitions website recommends using a crushed plantain leaf to reduce swelling and itching.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm, or Melissa officinalis, is a member of the mint family that is easily distinguished from other mint species by its potent lemon scent. The crushed fresh leaves are helpful in easing the pain of stinging nettle rash. Dr. Christopher Hobbs notes that lemon balm's storehouse of flavinoids reduces allergic reactions to stinging nettle encounters.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
Lightly moistened baking soda applied directly to nettle rash helps neutralize the formic acid that triggers a burning sensation. Adding a light spray of vinegar instead of water to the baking soda strengthens the neutralizing effect on the skin. Some people report instant relief by applying vinegar topically with a cotton swab.
Warning
Although stinging nettle rash is rarely severe enough to command a doctor's attention, scratching the wound can introduce impurities which can cause infection. Keep all wounds clean and dry.
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