Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are popular ornamental plants that pose a toxicity risk to babies and small children. Mums are generally categorized as having low to moderate toxicity; ingestion or extensive handling is unlikely to be fatal but can cause distress and discomfort. Given a child’s tendency to explore with their mouths and hands, caregivers should treat chrysanthemums as a plant requiring safety precautions.
The Toxic Compounds in Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums are toxic due to two classes of chemical compounds within the plant tissues. The first group is pyrethrins, a mixture of six chemicals concentrated primarily in the flower heads. Pyrethrins are natural insecticides that affect the nervous systems of insects. When ingested by a child, pyrethrins are absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and can cause nervous system overactivity. Although mammals typically break down these compounds rapidly, a large dose can lead to noticeable symptoms.
The plant also contains sesquiterpene lactones, which act as a defense mechanism. These lactones cause the plant’s bitter taste, often preventing a child from eating a significant amount. Sesquiterpene lactones are potent allergens and irritants, causing contact dermatitis upon direct skin contact.
Identifying Signs of Exposure
Signs of exposure differ based on whether the plant was ingested or touched. Ingestion often leads to gastrointestinal symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain as the body attempts to expel the plant matter. A child may also exhibit hypersalivation, or excessive drooling, due to irritation. Ingesting a substantial amount may lead to generalized effects like lethargy or temporary loss of appetite. Symptoms usually manifest quickly, often within a few hours.
Contact with the leaves, stems, or flowers can trigger a localized dermal reaction due to the sesquiterpene lactones. This exposure results in contact dermatitis, which presents as redness, itching, burning sensations, or a localized rash. The rash is usually confined to the area that touched the plant, such as the hands, face, or legs.
What to Do If Your Baby is Exposed
Immediate Action
If you suspect your baby has ingested or had extensive contact with a chrysanthemum, remove any remaining plant material from the child’s mouth or skin. If the plant was touched, wash the skin thoroughly with soap and lukewarm water to remove residual sap or pollen. If ingestion is suspected, do not attempt to induce vomiting. The primary action is to call the national Poison Control Center hotline immediately at 1-800-222-1222. A specialist will provide specific instructions tailored to the child’s age, weight, and the amount of plant material involved.
When calling, be prepared to describe the child’s symptoms and identify the plant, even if you only have a photo. This allows the professional to accurately assess the risk and determine if a trip to the emergency room is necessary. Seeking expert advice is the safest precaution, even if symptoms appear minor.
Prevention
Prevention remains the most effective strategy for managing this risk in a household with small children. Caregivers should ensure that potted mums or cut flower arrangements are placed entirely out of a child’s reach, such as on a high shelf. Recognizing chrysanthemums in community gardens and explaining to older toddlers that they should not touch or eat outdoor plants can also mitigate accidental exposure.