Peace Lilies (Spathiphyllum) are popular houseplants, prized for their glossy, dark green foliage and elegant white, spoon-shaped flowers. Many people wonder if the plant poses a danger to curious pets or children. While generally not poisonous to touch, Peace Lilies contain irritating substances that can cause a reaction upon contact. Although considered low-toxicity, the plant is not harmless and warrants caution.
The Mechanism of Irritation
The Peace Lily’s irritant nature stems from a physical defense mechanism, not a systemic poison. All parts of the plant contain specialized cells called idioblasts, which house microscopic, needle-shaped crystals. These crystals are an insoluble compound known as calcium oxalate, specifically the form called raphides.
When the plant tissue is chewed or crushed, the pressure causes these idioblast cells to rupture forcefully. The sharp raphides are ejected into surrounding soft tissue, such as the skin or mouth membranes. This creates numerous microscopic punctures, resulting in immediate mechanical irritation and discomfort.
Immediate Effects of Exposure
The symptoms that follow exposure depend on the nature and location of the contact. Simple dermal contact, such as brushing against the leaves or handling the plant, is usually quite mild. Sensitive individuals may experience minor, transient symptoms like localized skin irritation, itching, or redness. This reaction is not corrosive and typically fades quickly after the irritant is removed.
Oral ingestion presents a much more serious risk, as the crystals directly impact sensitive mucosal tissues. Chewing any part of the plant causes an immediate, intense burning sensation in the mouth, tongue, and lips. This often leads to excessive drooling, significant oral pain, and difficulty swallowing. In rare instances, swelling of the throat or airway can impede breathing, requiring medical attention.
Symptoms in household pets like cats and dogs are similar, manifesting as oral pain and intense irritation. Affected animals may paw at their mouths, shake their heads, vomit, or refuse to eat due to the pain. While the toxicity is painful, the intense burning typically discourages the ingestion of large amounts, and the effects are generally self-limiting.
First Aid and When to Seek Medical Help
For minor dermal contact, the most effective first aid is to immediately wash the affected skin area thoroughly. Use soap and warm water to remove any residual plant sap and the microscopic calcium oxalate crystals. This minimizes the duration of the irritation and prevents accidental transfer to sensitive areas, like the eyes.
If oral ingestion is suspected, the initial step is to have the person or pet rinse their mouth repeatedly with cool water to flush out remaining plant matter and crystals. Consuming cold liquids, such as milk, or sucking on ice chips can soothe the intense burning. Dairy products are helpful because the fat and calcium can help bind to the oxalates.
Professional medical guidance is warranted if symptoms escalate beyond minor oral discomfort. Seek urgent medical attention if the person or pet experiences persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing, or severe swelling of the tongue or throat. In any suspected case of ingestion, calling Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) or contacting a veterinarian provides immediate, expert advice.