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stinging nettles 01.jpg (18 KB)
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| This plant is called a stinging nettle |
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stinging nettles 02.jpg (39 KB)
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| Nettles usually appear year after year in the same areas. They like rich soil, moist woodlands, thickets, river banks, and partly shaded trails. They appear in the late spring and continue until the fall. Watch out! |
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stinging nettles 03.jpg (46 KB)
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| They are quite distinctive herbaceous plants and are covered with nearly invisible stinging hairs that cause intense itching, a rash, and burning pain. |
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stinging nettles 04.JPG (47 KB)
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| On the equine, an oozing sore appears where contact occurs, usually on the pastern area. A crusty scab will appear at the site. The horse will try to quell the itch by rubbing with his head or mouth. This rubbing can get the stinging hairs in the eyes and mouth, which can become a monumental problem. The use of protective leg coverings are a great help. |
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stinging nettles cure 01.jpg (52 KB)
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| Jewelweed (pictured below) helps if you or your horse gets stung by using the leaves and juice from the stem. You can find this anywhere you find the stinging nettles. |
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stinging nettles cure 02.jpg (44 KB)
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| Your vet may be able to suggest a remedy as well. |
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