Читать книгу Hiking & Backpacking Big Sur. Your complete guide to the trails of Big Sur, Ventana Wilderness, and Silver Peak Wilderness онлайн

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Since many trails are overgrown, particularly within the Ventana and Silver Peak Wildernesses, it’s likely you’ll brush up against poison oak at some point. It’s best to wear long pants while hiking, regardless of temperature. If you’re extremely susceptible, bring extra pants and long-sleeved shirts, and place each day’s clothes in a plastic bag upon reaching camp. Wash your skin thoroughly with products designed to remove the plant’s toxic oil, such as Tecnu.

Poison oak’s oily resin contains the toxin urushiol. Contact can cause painful blistering, weeping soars, and maddening itching. The rash may appear in a few hours or days, depending on the extent of exposure and your degree of sensitivity. Most exposures are through direct contact with the plant. Other sources include smoke and secondary exposure from pets, soiled clothing, and gear. If your symptoms are severe, see a physician for treatment with strong corticosteroids.

Stinging Nettle

Another unpleasant plant you may encounter on the trail is the stinging nettle, which grows in clusters along the banks of creeks and rivers. Nettle leaves bear raised prickly hairs that stick in your skin, instantly delivering a painful sting and burning sensation. You’ll know once you’ve walked through stinging nettles—the key is to recognize them in advance.