Summer is the season of the year that many of us enjoy, simply because many people are on vacation, they think of the beach, sand and enjoy ...
It is known that the presence of sunlight, mixed with some chemicals, can cause burns or painful rashes, such as blisters. As reported in Science News for Students, Pennsylvania dermatology specialist Robin Gehris at Children's Hospital in Pittsburgh has treated patients with severe burns from limes, lemons, and other burns at least once a week. seeds.
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Most are unaware that the combination of the sun's rays with toxic plant chemicals called psoralens (plant substances that prevent cell division in the skin), can cause a chemical reaction called Phytophotodermatitis, which means that something based on plants causes the skin to be super sensitive to sunlight, causing serious damage. Psoralens are found in lemons, limes, fennel, celery, parsley, dill, carrots, and rue.
How does the skin react to toxic chemicals?
The skin requires between 30 minutes and two hours to absorb the chemicals, and coupled with sun exposure, the chemicals are activated by oxygen and can damage DNA, causing affected cells to die, leaving a sunburn.
Isn't it just lemons but the Hogweed plant?
As published in GH, the giant Hogweed plant, with a presence in some regions in the United States, can cause painful burns, scarring, and possibly blindness, it produces the same toxic compounds as lemons. Scientists claim that the danger comes from its sap, which is present throughout the plant, causing burns when exposed to sunlight.
Things you have to know
Remember that these foods when eaten do not cause any type of health problem, only when their chemicals are exposed to the sun's rays. Toxicity occurs when the juice, sap, or leaves of these plants are touched.
How to avoid serious burns?
wash hands
After touching any plant that contains toxic substances such as psoralens, hands should be washed and disinfected to prevent its components from being activated by sunlight and oxygen.
use sunscreen
It is advisable to apply any type of sun protection or moisturizing creams to protect the skin before and after contact with toxic chemicals.
Medical treatments
Dermatologists prescribe oral treatments to regenerate affected cells and relieve pain, as well as ointments and creams.
Symptoms
They usually include burning, itching, stinging, and the appearance of large blisters, you may experience inflammation and hyperpigmentation in the affected areas. These appear 24 hours after exposure to the sun.
Now that you know, take safety measures and pay attention when you are exposed to the sun's rays, especially in this summer season, when it is common to drink drinks with lemon or lime.
