How is it harmful?
How is it that these beautiful flowers are toxic?
Zantedeschia aethiopica is one of the many members of the
Araceae family that is poisonous. This particular flower is
especially harmful to dogs and cats when consumed. While toxic
in its raw form, this flower can be boiled and consumed despite
its toxicity. Its leaves have also been used to cure headaches.
So this plant can't be that bad, right?
The whole portion of Z. aethiopica are toxic, and only in its
raw form. Within the plant are small bundles of calcium oxalate
crystals known as raphides. Once ingested these raphides are
known to damage cells in the mouth. After many experiments and
studies, it is now thought that raphides are only used as a
means of delivering a chemical into the skin. These chemicals
may include kinins and histamines.
Symptoms may include:
-Immediate pain and irritation after consuming plant
-Swelling in the mouth and/or throat
-Secondary dehydration
-Nausea
-Intense salivation
-Electrolyte imbalance and shock are possible
-In extreme cases irregular heart beat, coma, and possibly death
Treatment:
-Rinse mouth immediately, oral calcium has been known to relieve
pain.
-Antihistamines
-IV fluids if dehydration persists
-Seek
help.
Signs should clear up within 2-4 hours after treatment.
These flowers have raphides in order to deter predators from
eating them. Can you blame them for wanting a little taste of
this gorgeous flower?
