Is the green lily poisonous for cats, dogs & people?

The green lily (Chlorophytum comosum) is found in many homes and offices. It filters pollutants from the air, grows quickly and makes little demands on maintenance. Is the popular houseplant poisonous?

Healthy properties

For a while the plant was considered old-fashioned. After its pollutant-filtering effect became known, it made it back into the offices and apartments. Room health experts recommend placing green lilies even in bedrooms because of their air-purifying properties.

Toxicity to humans?

For decades there has been a rumor that green lilies are poisonous to humans. It quickly happens that small children put the leaves or a flower of the houseplant in their mouth.
However, the poison control center gives the all-clear and confirms

that there is no danger to humans from touching or eating parts of the plant. However, caution should be exercised in the presence of an allergy.

Toxicity to pets

In cats, ingesting parts of the green lily plant can lead to impaired consciousness, dizziness or apathy. Birds are sensitive to the consumption of leaves in rooms with high pollution. Dogs usually have no problem eating parts of the plant.

Note: Note that even non-toxic plants can leave residues from fertilizers, pesticides, etc. may contain.

Hazard from pollutants and seeds

Pollutants

The green plant filters pollutants from the room air. These are in the leaves

saved. Normally, the concentration of the stored substances is not so high that it could pose a health risk to humans or pets. However, it is possible that young children are sensitive. In pets, too, the dose can be sufficient to trigger an allergy.

Seeds

Green lilies produce delicate white flowers. Capsule fruits with seeds form from the flower. The seeds contain saponins, which are considered to be slightly toxic.

Tips to protect children and pets

1. Place green lilies in a safe place so that children and pets are not tempted to nibble on the parts of the plant.
   
2. Be careful not to let the seeds fall to the ground. The seeds pose a danger to young children. They are not highly toxic, but can cause discomfort in sensitive people. Cats, birds and small pets can also be harmed by eating the seeds.
   
3. Set up cat grass for your cat. Domestic cats need to nibble on green leaves in order to better get rid of swallowed hair. When cats have a choice, they opt for fresh, healthy cat grass.
   
4. In newly renovated rooms or in rooms where people smoke, green lilies fulfill an important filter function. Make sure to set up green lilies in these rooms to improve the air. Place these in places that are inaccessible to children and cats.

Symptoms of poisoning in children

• nausea
• Vomit
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• paleness
• Impaired consciousness
• Shortness of breath
• Hallucinations

First aid

If you suspect poisoning, keep calm. Call an ambulance.

Symptoms of Poisoning in Pets

• Vomit
• diarrhea
• Tremble
• paleness
• Difficulty breathing
• unsteady gait

First aid

See a veterinarian. Use a syringe to give the animal water to dilute the poison.

sources

www.gizbonn.de
www.katzen-leben.de
www.bvl.bund.de