A woman has sounded the alarm on the presence of giant hogweed in her neighbourhood park, urging the public to steer clear of the deceptively dangerous plant that can inflict severe burns and permanent skin damage.

In a stark warning about the perils of an innocuous-looking but dangerous plant, a woman raised the alarm over giant hogweed, which can cause horrific burning and blistering of the skin, potentially leading to lasting harm.

Giant hogweed, a close relative of cow parsley, known for its rapid summer growth, is a hazardous invader unlike its harmless cousin. While cow parsley is celebrated for its slightly spicy taste and medicinal benefits, giant hogweed stands as a toxic imposter, posing a serious threat with its resemblance to an oversized version of the harmless herb.

A TikTok influencer has taken to the platform with a crucial 'public service announcement', aiming to protect UK residents from the dangers of giant hogweed. Known by her handle @britofbaking, she warns: "It's a very dangerous plant. It's invasive."

In her video, she reveals the alarming ease of coming into contact with the plant in her local park, cautioning: "It's really going to hurt your hand, and you end up with permanent damage because the sap causes this photosensitivity which the Royal Horticultural Society [RHS] warns you about."

In a dire warning, one social media user cautioned that the plant "looks like other plants" and advised: "If you do touch it, wash any sap off and try to get it as clean as possible."

The caption further read: "It's a toxic invasive species and if the sap gets on yours or your animals skin it causes permanent damage. The sap reduces your skins ability to protect itself from UV light for up to seven years I believe and you'll blister and be in a lot of pain."

Giant hogweed is part of the carrot family and can grow up to 14 feet tall. The RHS explains: "Although an impressive sight when fully grown, giant hogweed is invasive and potentially harmful. Chemicals in the Sap is a fluid that circulates through a plant's vascular system, in a similar way to blood moving through our veins.

"Phloem sap carries the sugars produced in the leaves by photosynthesis down to roots and other storage organs, as well as carrying minerals and hormones. Xylem sap is watery and transports nutrients absorbed by the roots upwards to the rest of the plant.

"Some plants leak sap from wounds or pruning cuts, and this is known as bleeding. sap can cause photodermatitis or photosensitivity, where the skin becomes very sensitive to sunlight and may suffer blistering, pigmentation and long-lasting scars."

If you do happen to brush against giant hogweed, it's recommended to wash the area thoroughly and immediately. You should then seek medical attention, and avoid sunlight for several days.