Overview

• Laboratory tests on stem and leaf extracts confirmed the presence of phototoxic furanocoumarins.
• Species identification remains pending due to the absence of domestic reference specimens for comparison.
• About 40 suspect plants were removed on June 24 and the university plans regular mowing to eradicate any remaining growth.
• Authorities found similar toxic plants roughly 5 kilometers from campus and in Shiroishi Ward and have urged the public to photograph and report suspicious specimens.
• Experts advise washing affected skin with water and avoiding sunlight exposure to prevent or reduce inflammation.