7 Dangerous Plants You Shouldn’t Have At Home

Plants give a special touch to the decoration of the house. They create a natural environment, purify the air and help to bring spaces to life. However, there are some dangerous plants that can be toxic; especially for children and pets.

It is also possible that on a field trip you will discover some beautiful plants and you will be encouraged to take them home without knowing if they pose any danger. But sometimes,  its beauty is a trap that can cause a lot of problems.

Dangerous Plants You Shouldn’t Have in Your Home

1. Hydrangeas

It is perhaps one of the most popular plants for interior decoration. Its bright blue flowers are very showy; however, they are the most dangerous part.

If  the hydrangea flower  is chewed,  respiratory arrest can occur, blood pressure drops, and there is a high risk of dizziness and fainting. The leaves and stem also produce these effects, but to a lesser extent.

These symptoms are produced by hydrazine, a familiar cyanide compound  present in this plant, so beautiful and common in our homes.

1. the lilies

Lilies, also known as milk cups, are a favorite flower in decorative bouquets and vases. However,  those who have cats should avoid them.

There are many different types of lilies and they all have negative effects on cats. Some irritate the animal’s digestive tract and cause diarrhea and vomiting. Other types of lilies affect the kidneys and can cause death.

The  studies have failed to find out what the substance causes poisoning in cats; but it is known that only two petals can be fatal. 

1. The  Salvia divinorum

This type of salvia can take many by surprise, as  it is often  confused with common salvia ; which is edible and has  many health benefits.  

The  sage  is composed hallucinogens,  similar to LSD. Although the indigenous people of the Amazon use it for ritualistic purposes, its consumption can cause irreversible damage, as it  creates altered states of consciousness and hallucinations that sometimes become recurrent and permanent.

For this reason, when you read the label that says “sage,” make sure it doesn’t have the surname divinorum .

1. Floripondium, Angel’s Trumpet or Brugmansia: Dangerous Plants

This plant, known by different names according to the region,  is a leafy and very decorative tree. Its very attractive flowers fall like a skirt or bell. For greater temptation, its flavor is sweet and pleasant.

However, the floripondium is also a hallucinogenic plant. Its flowers cause psychotic episodes, alienation, paralysis and can become deadly. That’s because it has trophic alkaloids, substances that are also  present in synthetic drugs  and that inhibit the nervous system.

1. the trinitarian

It is very common in the exterior of the houses, as it  goes up the walls and gives them color with its flowers.

Trinitarian flowers, stems and seeds  contain cyanogens and oleandrin, both toxic substances that affect the heart. If ingested intentionally or accidentally, arrhythmias and tachycardias will appear within a few hours; as well as dizziness, vomiting and diarrhea.

1. the oleander

Also known as the “flower of St. Joseph”, the oleander has small, delicate flowers, which is why it is a favorite plant both indoors and outdoors. However, it is a dangerous plant for people and animals.

Oleander contains glycosides that, when ingested,  speed up the heart rate, produce sweating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and respiratory problems.

It is also  dangerous when in contact with the skin ; because its stem has a milky substance that can be irritating. Therefore, it is recommended to wear gloves when planting, transplanting or pruning them.

1. The  Difenbachia

This plant, also known as ‘Loteria’ and ‘Amoena’, is very popular for its coloring and its easy maintenance  indoors and outdoors. This plant has asparagine, which is an irritant. It can cause skin problems  in some people and if chewed it can cause sore throat and heart problems.

Dangerous Plants: General Recommendations

These dangerous plants are very decorative and easy to find; therefore it is always advisable to  handle them with care and keep them out of reach of pets and children.

Also, it’s good to  take other precautions:

• Collect the leaves and petals that fall from the plant.
• Attach labels that warn of your danger.
• Wash hands after touching plants.
• If you have pets, make sure they have a container of fresh water to prevent them from drinking water stored in the plants.