The poinsettia belongs to the milkweed family
All parts of the milkweed family contain plant sap that is toxic to humans and animals if consumed. Even the contact of the milk with the bare skin can cause skin irritation and inflammation.
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Poinsettia poisoning in humans
There is a risk of poisoning in humans if parts of the plant are swallowed. This probably doesn't happen that often because the poinsettia doesn't invite you to eat. In addition, new varieties were cultivated which hardly contain any portions of the highly toxic diterpenes. Young children can still be at risk if they put fallen leaves in their mouths.
Symptoms of poisoning are:
- Gastrointestinal problems
- bloody diarrhea
- Signs of paralysis
- Liver problems
- Cardiac arrhythmias
noticeable. If someone is suspected of having eaten poinsettia, they should drink plenty of water and, if necessary, take charcoal tablets. In severe cases, the doctor should be consulted immediately.
Poinsettias are dangerous to cats, dogs and other pets
The poinsettia is even more dangerous for humans than it is for humans Cats, Dogs and other animals. The smaller a pet, the greater the risk of poisoning. Small animals such as hamsters, rabbits or guinea pigs can even die from poisoning.
Tips
The poinsettia is not because of the rather inconspicuous blossoms, but appreciated because of the colored bracts. The bracts are depending on variety of a strong red, but can also be colored yellow, pink or two-tone.