Caladium plant poisoning - Symptoms,Causes

Caladium plant poisoning - Symptoms,Causes

This article describes poisoning caused by eating parts of the Caladium plant and other plants belonging to the Araceae family.
This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.


Poisonous Ingredient


Calcium oxalate crystals
Asparagine, a protein found in the plant

Note: All parts of the plants are poisonous if large amounts are eaten.

Where Found

Caladium and related plants may be purchased as houseplants or used in landscapes. Types include Caladium esculentum and Caladium bicolor.

Symptoms

Eating parts of the plant causes a severe burning in mouth and throat. Other symptoms may include:

Diarrhea
Nausea
Swelling of mouth and tongue
Redness, swelling, pain, and burning of the eyes
Vomiting


Home Care

Wipe out the mouth with a cold, wet cloth, and give milk to drink. Call poison control for more treatment information.

Update Date: Updated by: Jacob L. Heller, MD, MHA, Emergency Medicine, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M.,

Caladium plant poisoning - Symptoms,Causes

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