Urtication

Urtication refers to the deliberate irritation of the skin with nettles. The term is also used for striking or brushing the skin with nettles in order to cause a strong burning, tingling sensation, or redness. In erotic or BDSM contexts, urtication may appear as a form of sensation play; the terms “flaming” or “nettling” are also occasionally used.

Caution is required: nettles can irritate the skin significantly and may trigger stronger reactions in sensitive individuals. Urtication should only be carried out with mutual consent, on a small and less sensitive area, and with care. Contact with the eyes, mucous membranes, open wounds, or highly sensitive body areas should be avoided; if severe reactions or persistent symptoms occur, medical advice is recommended. The description as a “tunnel game” is not common and is factually incorrect.