Alert: Poisonous plant Bouhmadou nettle spreading rapidly in Tobago

A rare poisonous plant named "Bouhmadou Nettle" is spreading rapidly across Trinidad and Tobago. The authorities have expressed a deep concern, advising people to be cautious.

As per the information provided by the Division of Natural Resources of Tobago, the plant contains harmful properties.

The stinging hairs of the Bouhmadou nettle, on being touched, inject poison into the skin, which leads to great irritation that may last for several days.  Person can get intense itching, pain and swelling.

In more severe cases, there is fever and vomiting, sores and even unconsciousness. Also, contact with this plant can lead to cardiac and respiratory issues.

While asking everyone to be cautious, the Division said that if anyone comes in contact with it, they are strongly advised – especially in cases of sensitive skin and allergies, to seek prompt medical attention.

How to destroy the plant 

1. Cutting and burning – take care not to come in contact with the plant (it penetrates jeans and khaki clothing)

2. Using a broad-leaf herbicide

"Care should be taken when removing soil from areas affected with Bouhmadou to other areas to prevent the plant's further dispersal.

For further information, please get in touch with the Department of Natural Resources and Forestry at 639-2273/ 660-2079," they outlined.

About Bouhmadou Nettle

Cnidoscolus urens is a perennial, tropical American stinging herb belonging to the family Euphorbiaceae. At first glance, the plant resembles a young pawpaw, wild ochro or wild senna. It grows from 50cm to 150cm (1-4ft) and has small white flowers, it added.

While telling more about the plant, the Division said that the entire plant is covered in stinging hairs and has been, up until recently, restricted to the Southwest of the island- Buccoo, Friendship and Courland. The movement of soil from one location of the island to the next has brought with it the transfer of and introduction of plant species in new areas.