In autumn, yam has become a "frequent guest" on many family tables. But when peeling yams, many people feel itchy on their hands. In severe cases, they may even experience redness, swelling and stinging.

This is medically a type of contact dermatitis. Since not everyone has this symptom when exposed to yams, it could also be an allergic reaction. It is currently believed that the factors that cause this kind of contact dermatitis are the saponins contained in the yam skin or the plant alkaloids contained in the mucus. The skin will itch when it comes into contact with these two ingredients.

In fact, after washing the yam skin, it is best to wear gloves or put a plastic bag on your hands before peeling it. Or prepare a pot of boiling water, wash the yams, and boil them directly in the water. In this way, the yam skin is basically cooked, the original allergens are destroyed, and you will not be allergic if you touch it again. Moreover, after the yam is cooked, the skin can be easily removed by gently slicing it from top to bottom with a kitchen knife. But be careful not to cook it for too long, and it’s best to cook it whole instead of cutting it.

If you haven’t taken any measures before and you have symptoms of itchy hands, you can try the following methods: 1. Wash your hands first, and then apply vinegar on your hands, even under the nails. This itching sensation will gradually disappear after a while, which is due to acid-base neutralization. 2. You can also roast it on a fire and turn your palms repeatedly to heat your hands, which can decompose the saponin that has penetrated into your hands. But be careful and don't burn your skin. 3. Put your hands in rice and rub them repeatedly to relieve itching.

In addition, people who have experienced itchy hands due to contact with yam should avoid direct skin contact with yam; if the skin is dry and chapped or the skin is damaged, it is more likely to occur