Why does washing yam itch? How to deal with and avoid it?

In autumn, yam has become a "frequent visitor" on many family tables. However, many people will feel itchy when peeling yam, and even have serious symptoms such as redness and tingling.

This is a medical contact dermatitis. Because not everyone will have this symptom when they touch yam, it may also be an allergic reaction. At present, it is believed that the factors leading to this kind of contact dermatitis are saponins contained in yam peel or plant alkaloids contained in mucus, and the skin will itch when it comes into contact with these two components.

In fact, after washing the yam skin, it is best to wear gloves, or put a fresh-keeping bag on your hand before peeling it. Or prepare a pot of boiling water, wash the yam and throw it directly into the water to boil. In this way, the yam skin is basically cooked, the original allergen is destroyed, and it will not be allergic if it is contacted again. Moreover, after the yam is out of the pot, it can be easily taken out by gently cutting a knife from top to bottom with a kitchen knife. But be careful not to cook for too long, it is best to cook the whole root instead of cutting it.

If you haven't taken measures before and the symptoms of itchy fingers have appeared, you can try the following methods: First, wash your hands first, then put vinegar on your hands, and don't even drop it under your nails. After a period of time, this itching will gradually disappear, which is the result of acid-base neutralization. Second, you can also put it on the fire, flip the palm of your hand repeatedly, and make your hand hot, which can decompose the saponin that permeates your hand. But be careful not to burn your skin. Third, rubbing your hands repeatedly in rice can also relieve itching.

In addition, people who have itching symptoms due to contact with yam should avoid direct skin contact with yam; If the skin is dry, chapped or damaged, it is more prone to tingling reaction, and contact should be avoided.