Hollyhock allergy???

Last Friday I cut down my hollyhocks, collecting seeds as I went. By that evening I had hives all over the areas of my body that came in contact with the hollyhocks. Now it is a week later, and I'm still struggling with the itch, it seems as if the little hairs on the plant have gotten into my skin. Does anyone have experience with this or know what to do to get it to stop? Thanks, Vicki

Hey Vicki - that's one I have never heard of, but it's always possible. Hope by now it's merely an uncomfortable memory!

http://bodd.cf.ac.uk/BotDermFolder/BotDermM/MALV.html

Maggie

Thanks! I don't know why they talk about being cautious in considering it an allergy, I sure had an allergy reaction. I think the hairs got in my skin.

VJ,

I don't know if this will work but try placing duct tape on the affected area and removing the tape. This is recommended for caterpillar stings- it might work for this. Worth a try if it still hurts.

Maggie

That's an excellent idea. It seems to be past, but if not I'll give it a try. I kept trying to think how I could find the hairs and pull them out, this is perfect! Vicki

I have a lot of hollyhocks and I itch like crazy if I'm not careful when collecting seeds or cutting them back at the end of the season. I would compare it to working with fiberglass insulation.


early_bloomer

wow -- very interesting. I will keep this in mind when going out to harvest seeds.

I know I itch when I brush against them in the garden. I'll be more careful from now on. Sorry to learn from your discomfort.