Following up to Nick Maclaren

Firstly, it affects only some people, and few people are seriously
affected.

assuming wild and cultivated have the same effect I suspect that isnt
true:-

"http://128.104.239.6/uw_weeds/extension/articles/wildparsnip.htm"

"First, everyone is sensitive to wild parsnip and you do not need to be
sensitized by a prior exposure to develop burns or blisters. You can brush
against wild parsnip plants and not be affected. Parsnip is only dangerous
when the plant sap from broken leaves or stems gets on your skin. Lastly,
the wild parsnip¢s "burn" is usually less irritating that poison ivy¢s
"itch." The worst of the burning pain caused by wild parsnip is usually
over within a couple of days while the rash and itch of poison ivy can last
a long time.

In cases of mild exposure to wild parsnip, affected areas turn red and fell
sunburned. In severe cases, the skin first turns red and then blisters
form. The arms, legs, torso, face, and neck are most vulnerable and
affected areas may feel like they have been scalded. Blisters form a day or
two after sun exposure and soon after the blisters rupture and the skin
starts healing. But for many people the ordeal is not over as dark red or
brownish "scars" remain in the burned areas for several months to years.
Animals can also get parsnip burns if they have little hair and lightly
pigmented skin, characteristics that allow the chemical and sunlight to
reach the skin."

The blisters I have seen were quite unpleasant and as the effects can last
for years I dont think its something to play down, rather something to make
everyone aware of.

--
Mike:::::::::
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