Houseplants can beautify the environment, purify the air, and bring many benefits to our lives. However, not all plants are suitable for keeping at home. Some plants are even highly toxic and may pose serious health threats to family members if ingested or touched. This article will uncover those toxic plants that are not suitable for keeping at home, helping you understand the potential risks and protect your family's safety.
毒芹Poison hemlock, also known as poison hemlock seed, is a highly toxic plant. According to the book "Toxic Plants of China," all parts of poison hemlock are toxic, with the roots, stems, leaves, and seeds being particularly toxic. After ingesting poison hemlock, a person may experience nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, and in severe cases, it can even lead to death.
断肠草Intestine-breaking grass, also known as gelsemium, is a highly toxic plant. According to the book "Toxic Plants of China," the toxicity of intestine-breaking grass comes from its roots, stems, leaves, and seeds. After ingesting intestine-breaking grass, a person may experience nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, and in severe cases, it can even lead to death.
曼陀罗Mandrake, also known as downy cherry, is a toxic plant. According to the book "Toxic Plants of China," the toxicity of mandrake comes from its roots, stems, leaves, and seeds. After ingesting mandrake, a person may experience hallucinations, restlessness, and coma, and in severe cases, it can even lead to death.
夹竹桃Oleander is a common ornamental plant, but its flowers, leaves, and branches contain toxins. According to the book "Toxic Plants of China," the toxicity of oleander comes from its flowers, leaves, and branches. After ingesting oleander, a person may experience nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, and in severe cases, it can even lead to death.
滴水观音Broken Hearts'观音, also known as the dripping lotus, is a common ornamental plant. According to the book "Toxic Plants of China," the toxicity of broken Hearts'观音 comes from its stems and leaves. After ingesting broken Hearts'观音, a person may experience nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, and in severe cases, it can even lead to death.
In order to ensure the health and safety of our families, we must avoid these toxic plants when choosing houseplants. During maintenance, we should also be careful not to ingest or touch toxic plants. Here, we remind all readers to understand the nature of the plants when purchasing them to avoid unnecessary harm.
References:
[1] Toxic Plants of China[M]. Beijing: China Agricultural Publishing House, 2012.
[2] Flora of China[M]. Beijing: Science Press, 2013.