The African Milk Tree (Euphorbia trigona) is a popular succulent houseplant. However, it is important to understand that this plant is poisonous. Responsible ownership requires knowledge of its toxic nature to ensure the safety of both humans and pets.
Understanding the African Milk Tree’s Toxicity
The African Milk Tree’s toxicity primarily stems from the milky white sap, or latex, it exudes when damaged. This sap is a potent irritant, characteristic of plants within the Euphorbia genus. It contains chemical compounds, including diterpene esters, responsible for its irritating effects. The sap acts as a defense mechanism. When it contacts skin, eyes, or mucous membranes, it can cause immediate discomfort. While typically not life-threatening, the irritation can be severe in both humans and animals.
Symptoms of Exposure
Exposure to the African Milk Tree’s sap can result in various symptoms depending on the contact point.
Skin Contact
Skin contact is common, leading to redness, burning, itching, rash, or blisters. These symptoms may intensify over several hours, manifesting as contact dermatitis.
Eye Contact
Eye contact is serious, causing intense pain, inflammation, and conjunctivitis. Blurred vision, light sensitivity, and even temporary blindness can occur, requiring immediate medical attention.
Ingestion
If ingested by humans, the sap irritates the mouth and throat, causing nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. For pets, ingestion results in vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive drooling. Pets may also exhibit lethargy and oral irritation, such as pawing at the mouth. Skin contact on pets can also cause redness and inflammation.
What to Do After Exposure
Prompt action is important if exposure occurs.
Skin Contact
Immediately wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and cool water to remove all residue. This minimizes the irritant’s effect.
Eye Contact
Flush eyes immediately and continuously with clean, cool water for at least 15 to 20 minutes. Due to potential severe irritation and vision issues, seek medical attention without delay.
Ingestion
If ingested by a human, do not induce vomiting. Rinse the mouth thoroughly with water and contact a poison control center immediately (1-800-222-1222). If symptoms are severe or persist, seek medical attention. For pets, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison helpline without delay. Avoid inducing vomiting unless advised by a professional. Provide details about the exposure, including when it happened and the amount of sap involved.
Safe Handling and Prevention
Precautions can prevent accidental exposure. Always wear protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, when handling, pruning, or repotting the plant. This creates a physical barrier against the milky latex.
Place the plant out of reach of children and pets, such as on elevated shelves or in inaccessible rooms. When pruning, perform the task carefully and immediately clean tools and any sap residue on surfaces.
After any contact, even if gloves were worn, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water. This ensures no residual sap remains. For pet owners, training pets to avoid plants and considering non-toxic houseplants are additional safety measures.