Did you know thousands of people in the United States experience plant poisoning yearly? Poison centers in the U.S. receive reports of more than 100,000 cases of exposure to toxic plants annually. However, most of these exposures are of minimal toxicity.
There are a variety of poisonous plants throughout the country that cause different health issues. The effects vary widely from mild skin irritations to life-threatening respiratory problems.
1. Poison ivy
Poison ivy is a plant common in North America that causes an allergic reaction upon contact. It usually grows in wooded areas or places with bushes and tall grass. The leaves are shiny or dull and turn red or yellow in the fall.
Touching any part of poison ivy will cause a rash. The plant excretes a clear liquid that causes skin irritation, itching, redness and blisters. Symptoms usually appear within 12 to 48 hours and can last up to three weeks. Non-life-threatening symptoms can be alleviated with hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion.
While recuperating, avoid scratching and putting on makeup or skincare products. Ensure all clothing, bedding and towels have been thoroughly washed to prevent further contact.
2. Poison oak
Like poison ivy, poison oak is common. Bushes or small trees grow mostly in wooded areas and roadsides. The leaves range in color from green to red-brown.
You may have an allergic reaction if you touch any part of poison oak, like its leaves or bark. The skin quickly absorbs the plant’s oil (urushiol), which causes a rash, redness, itching and blisters. Removing the oil from your skin immediately is essential to minimize or avoid these symptoms.
If you wash it off:
- Within 10 minutes, 50% removed.
- Within 15 minutes, 25% removed.
- Within 30 minutes, 10% removed.
- After 30 minutes, the oil is absorbed.
If you cannot wash it off, it may take time for the symptoms to subside, depending on your reaction. In the meantime, use a cold compress or hydrocortisone cream to reduce skin irritation. Avoid scratching the affected area and wash all clothing, bedding and towels thoroughly before using them again.
3. Poison sumac
Poison sumac is a shrub or small tree that grows in swampy areas. It’s easy to spot because of its white berries, red stems and smooth-edged leaves that grow in clusters of seven to 13.
If you come into contact with poison sumac, a rash may develop within 12 to 24 hours. It is often accompanied by redness, itching and fluid-filled blisters. In severe cases, the rash may spread over large areas. Topical over-the-counter skin protectants like zinc acetate, zinc carbonate and calamine can help alleviate symptoms.
4. Poison hemlock
Poison hemlock usually grows in moist areas, such as fields, along roads and by streams. The plant has a tall stem with lacy and fern-like leaves, with small white flowers on top. The leaves, stem, fruit, and root are poisonous. During spring, before the plant flowers, its leaves are particularly toxic.
If you come into contact with poison hemlock, it can cause:
- Convulsions;
- Muscle pain;
- Loss of speech;
- Muscle weakness;
- Rapid heart rate followed by a decreased heart rate.
In extreme cases, it may even result in a coma or death. If you think you have been exposed, seek medical help immediately. Treatment depends on the severity of the exposure but typically includes a combination of supportive care, activated charcoal and medications.
5. Giant hogweed
Giant hogweed is a flowering plant that can grow up to 15 feet tall. It has large, coarse leaves, white flower clusters, and bristles with its reddish-purple stem. It typically grows in damp areas along streams, ditches, river banks and gardens. All parts of the plant are toxic and can cause severe skin irritation.
If you come into contact, rinse the affected area immediately with a large amount of cold water and cover it up to prevent further exposure. Within 48 hours of contact, raised red welts may appear on the skin, followed by painful blisters. In extreme cases, exposure may lead to long-term skin sensitivity, dark patches or scarring.
If you think you have come into contact with giant hogweed, seek medical attention. Use mild hydrocortisone cream and calamine lotion to relieve itching or burning sensations. Avoid direct sunlight and wear protective clothing to minimize further irritation.
6. Azalea
Azalea is a woody shrub found in many gardens and parks. It has rose-like flowers in various colors, including pink, purple, white and yellow. All parts of this plant are toxic if ingested and may cause nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. If you think you have accidentally ingested azalea, seek medical help immediately. Depending on the amount consumed, treatment may involve activated charcoal and other medications to reduce any adverse effects.
7. Jimson weed
Jimson weed is an annual plant found in fields and gardens all over the world. It has large, oval leaves with jagged edges, white or purple flowers and a large central seed pod. All parts are highly toxic, and ingesting just one leaf can cause serious health issues.
If ingested, it can cause nausea, vomiting, confusion, delirium and loss of coordination. The effects can last up to three days, and severe cases may require hospitalization. If exposed to Jimson weed, seek medical help right away. While no specific antidote exists, treatment typically involves supportive care such as fluids and medications to reduce adverse symptoms.
8. Mistletoe
Mistletoe is a parasitic plant that lives on the branches of trees. It has small rounded leaves and white berries and is often used in Christmas decorations. All parts are toxic if ingested and can cause vomiting, abdominal pain, confusion, drowsiness and even seizures or coma.
If you suspect someone has ingested mistletoe, seek immediate help. Treatment may involve activated charcoal, laxatives and other medications depending on the amount consumed and the severity of symptoms.
9. Nightshade
Nightshade is a flowering plant found in many gardens and fields. It has small white or purple flowers, green, oval leaves, and shiny black berries. All plant parts are toxic if ingested, and even contact with the skin can cause burning or irritation.
Ingesting any part of the nightshade plant causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and muscle weakness. Severe cases may lead to paralysis, coma or death. While there is no specific antidote for nightshade poisoning, treatment typically involves supportive care, such as fluids and medications to reduce symptoms. If you think that someone has ingested nightshade, seek medical help immediately.
10. Oleander
Oleander is a large shrub or small tree found in many gardens and parks. It has long, narrow leaves, clusters of white to pink flowers, and red or yellow berries. If any part of the plant is eaten, it can be poisonous. Touching the plant can also cause skin irritation or rash.
Ingesting oleander may cause nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and even heart complications. Therefore, it’s critical to seek medical assistance. Treatment options may involve stomach pumping, medication to control heart rate and blood pressure, and supportive care.
What to do if you’re exposed to a poisonous plant
If you have come into contact with a poisonous plant, act quickly. First, remove any contaminated clothing and thoroughly wash your skin and affected areas with soap and water. For any persistent symptoms, such as skin rashes, eye or nose irritation, or breathing difficulties, seek professional care. In case of more severe symptoms, call 911 immediately, as it could be life-threatening.
If you’re unsure about the poisonous plant or if you’ve ingested any part of the plant, go to the Poison Control Center for help. If you develop a rash or irritation, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist. They can help identify the plant and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. In an emergency or if you cannot visit a dermatologist, seek care from an urgent care clinic. They can assess your condition and provide immediate care.