Is bittersweet toxic?
 

Meaning, does it cause an itchy skin rash? I keep getting a rash every time I use the weedwacker in the woods. I suspect bittersweet, but can't find confirmation online that it causes dermatitis.

skin rash
 

Some people have allergic reaction. My gf has a reaction. Antihistamin appears to work.

Thanks. I thought it was my imagination.

Bittersweet and poison ivy both contain a chemical, urushiol, that causes an allergic contact dermatitis in many people.

Everyone seems to have their own favorite remedy. You can’t “spread” it by scratching, but aggressive scratching can lead to infection. In severe cases cortisone systemically works but it’s rarely necessary.

So I Wouldn't Offend My Neighbor, I Let It Grow and Grow...
 

Since my skin is allergic to just about everything, I had to see what bittersweet looks like.

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/ff/8c...53b8c1bd28.jpg

Sure enough, we've got it close by :rolleye2: and Dr. Bovaird isn't here to save me (this time).

In March, a Florida property next door sold, so I spent a day pulling that neighbor's invasive Philodendron off my fence, driveway, across massive oak trees and all over a 24-foot shed. It was so extensive, I had to hire a helper, who was unaffected.

The next day, I developed a rash over most of my right side. I was going to a Dermatologist the next day anyway. The Physicians Assistant was intrigued that the rash didn't itch and that it didn't particularly bother me.

$250 later, application of Clobetasol Propionate cleared it up over 10 days time. I don't know why such a powerful treatment was necessary, but the PA initially suspected a return of shingles . :eek:

I'm writing all this, as people can be allergic to 'most anything, and Philodendron is an ordinary houseplant (that can grow much larger outdoors) :rolleye1:

Alright, this is serious so lend an ear, please. If you've been using a weedwacker in tall weeds and you find a rash on your skin some days later, GET TESTED FOR LYME DISEASE IMMEDIATELY. I assumed my rash was something like bittersweet (hence my original post here), but it turned out to be lyme.