1. Home
  2. Question and Answer
  3. Houseplants
  4. Garden Articles
  5. Most Popular Plants
  6. Plant Nutrition

Fig Sap Sensitivity: A Real and Painful Phototoxic Reaction

Pruning figs without skin protection can cause severe phytophotodermatitis—a skin reaction triggered when sap contacts skin followed by sunlight exposure.

How It Happens

Fig sap contains furanocoumarins that sensitize skin to UV light. The resulting burns can be severe, blistering, and long-lasting. This isn't an allergy; it's a chemical reaction anyone can experience.

Related Plants to Watch

Other common landscape plants cause similar reactions: euphorbias, Confederate jasmine, and evergreen passion vine. Always wear long sleeves, gloves, and eye protection when pruning these species.

If exposure occurs, wash the area immediately with soap and water, avoid sun exposure for 48 hours, and seek medical attention if blistering develops.

Copyright © www.100flowers.win Botanic Garden All Rights Reserved