After a few hours, erythematous papules can appear on the areas of the skin exposed both to these phototoxic plants and in the sun.
We will particularly be wary of the fig tree whose sap contains furocoumarins, chemical compounds produced by the plant to protect themselves from fungi. When these substances are in contact with the skin and exposed to sunlight (UV), they can cause phytophotodermatitis (inflammatory reaction such as sunshine) within 24 or 48 hours.
Furocoumarins are also very present in fresh parsley, responsible for professional photodermatoses in market gardeners and gardeners.
We will also be careful but to a lesser extent to fennel, dill, coriander, livèche, celery, … which also belong to the family of apiaceae.
Burning cocktails
Another family of plants should encourage prudence in good weather, that of rutaceae, mainly known for its citrus fruits … One of them is particularly appreciated for the touch of pep and freshness that it brings to festive drinks of summer.
Many cases of phytodermatosis have been reported in people who have pressed lemons to prepare a mojito, margarita or daïquiri before sipping their cocktail in the sun.
“Burn Margarita”, “Slime Disease” (lemon disease) or “Mexican beer dermatitis” (lemon district that is slipped into a corona), as many expressions that reflect the skin risks caused by the UV green lemon association.
No particular predisposition
Skin reactions are located in the regions exposed to the sun and on which the photosensitizing component has been applied.
They often leave persistent postinflammatory pigmentation. In case of massive ingestion, burns appear on all areas exposed to the sun.
Phototoxic reactions affect all individuals, without there being a particular predisposition. The photosensitizing substance must be sufficiently concentrated and the radiation sufficiently prolonged to cause the reaction, which will always be the same with each later exposure.
In the event of skin contact, it is recommended to rinse with cold water the button area and protect it from UV for several days.