No, it is not advisable to touch plants at night. When it comes to certain plants, touching them can lead to a condition known as phytophotodermatitis. This is a severe inflammation of the skin that occurs when the skin is exposed to both sunlight and certain plant chemicals at the same time.
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Plants like giant hogweed, wild parsnip, and cow parsnip contain a substance called furanocoumarins, which is responsible for this reaction. When the skin comes into contact with the sap or juices of these plants during daylight hours, the furanocoumarins cause the skin to become photosensitive.
This photosensitivity means that the skin becomes much more susceptible to damage from ultraviolet (UV) radiation found in sunlight. When the skin is exposed to these rays, it can lead to severe inflammation, redness, blistering, and even burns.
Touching these plants at night might not cause immediate symptoms, as there is no exposure to sunlight. However, if any sap or plant material from these plants remains on the skin, and then the skin is exposed to sunlight the following day, the phytophotodermatitis reaction can occur.
It is crucial to note that this reaction is not limited to plants that are hazardous or poisonous. Even common plants like limes, lemons, and celery can cause phytophotodermatitis if the skin comes into contact with their juice and is then exposed to sunlight.
Therefore, it is recommended to avoid touching plants that can cause phytophotodermatitis at any time, whether it is during the day or night. This precaution will help prevent any unwanted and potentially severe inflammation and discomfort to the skin.