Wild Parsnip Traditional Cache

Wild Parsnip is all over the place and it's toxic. I had a hard time finding a place for the cache away from the noxious plants. We need to recognize it and stay away.

Wild Parsnip

While the root of the parsnip is edible, handling the shoots and leaves of the plant requires caution as the sap is toxic.^[36] Like many other members of the family Apiaceae, the parsnip contains furanocoumarins as a defense against herbivory,^[37] photosensitive chemicals that causes a condition known as phytophotodermatitis.^[36] The condition is a type of chemical burn rather than an allergic reaction, and is similar to the rash caused by poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans). Symptoms include redness, burning, and blisters; afflicted areas can remain discolored for up to two years.

Wild Parsnips (Pastinaca sativa L.) are very common in N.Y. The plants grow wild along roadsides and other unmaintained areas, and produce yellow flowers that appear similar to Queen Anne’s Lace.

Avoid skin contact with Wild Parsnip

Although this is the same plant as the common garden parsnip we eat in soups and stews, the flower heads are the second year growth from the carrot-like roots. It is a close relative of carrots, parsley, angelica, and giant hogweed, all of which can cause similar skin reactions in sensitive individuals.

Wild parsnips produce a sap, or plant juice, that can cause burns to the skin in the presence of sunlight. In some cases, the burns are similar to second-degree sunburns, and can cause painful rashes and raised blisters.

The Department of Health advises people to avoid the sap or juice produced by the wild parsnip. Avoid skin and eye contact with this sap. If you need to work with the plant:

    •    Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs.

    •    Wash clothes that come in contact with the sap.

    •    Work with the plant on cloudy days, and always wash your skin immediately after coming in contact with the sap.

    •    If you are using string trimmers or power mowers in areas where this plant grows, wear eye/face protection, in addition to long pants, long sleeves, and gloves.

If you get sap on your skin:

    •    Wash the skin thoroughly with soap and water as soon as possible.

    •    Protect the exposed skin from sunlight for at least 48 hours.

    •    If you experience a skin reaction, call your physician.

The cache is a camoed, tall "small" pill bottle, the Push Hard to turn, both to open and close, kind. It holds only a rolled log with a rubber band to keep it tight, so it fits easily in the plastic zip lock bag. BYOP and no tweezers, please. It is tied in. Another Park and Grab.