Skating librarian writes: 

The advice about burning would seem to apply, as serious nettle encounters go way beyond itching. Of late the incessant rain seems to be good for more than swelling the berries, for I've discovered that if I can plunge my hand into cold water at once I have much less of a reaction, and Lord knows there is more than enough water around.

 I still use cold water for minor burns . . . even though I know I shouldn't.  I'm a homeopath, and like cures like.  Another one of the