Pothos, scientifically known as Epipremnum aureum, is one of the most popular houseplants globally due to its trailing vines and relative ease of care. This plant is also commonly referred to as devil’s ivy or the money plant in many regions. For parents and caregivers, it is important to know that Pothos is toxic if ingested. While consumption is rarely life-threatening to humans, the plant contains compounds that cause immediate and intense physical discomfort, making it a serious household hazard for curious infants and toddlers. Understanding the specific risks is necessary for maintaining a safe home environment.
Why Pothos is Toxic
The toxicity of the Pothos plant stems from specialized structures within its cells. The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which are microscopic, needle-shaped structures called raphides. These crystals are contained within specific cells called idioblasts.
When a baby chews on the plant, the mechanical action breaks these idioblasts, forcefully ejecting the raphides into the soft tissues of the mouth, tongue, and throat. The sharp, crystalline structure penetrates the mucous membranes, causing immediate and severe physical irritation. This reaction is a physical, mechanical injury rather than a systemic chemical poisoning, making the effect instant and localized.
Common Symptoms Following Ingestion
The immediate physical reaction to ingesting Pothos is usually intense and localized to the oral cavity and upper digestive tract. A baby will experience a sudden, severe burning sensation in the mouth, on the tongue, and across the lips. This pain often causes rapid crying and visible distress.
Excessive drooling is a common symptom, as the body attempts to wash away the irritating crystals. Swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat can occur as the tissue reacts to the embedment of the needle-like crystals. This swelling may lead to temporary difficulty swallowing or speaking.
In some instances, irritation may extend into the gastrointestinal tract, potentially leading to nausea or vomiting. Fortunately, the immediate and painful reaction usually causes the child to spit out the plant material almost instantly. This self-limiting exposure prevents the ingestion of large quantities, keeping symptoms localized.
Immediate Actions and Medical Protocol
If you suspect a baby or toddler has chewed on a Pothos plant, stay calm and remove any remaining plant material from their mouth. Gently rinse the child’s mouth with cool water or milk to wash away lingering residue and soothe the irritation. Do not attempt to induce vomiting, as this is rarely necessary and can cause further distress.
The next step is to immediately call the national toll-free Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Poison control specialists, who include doctors, pharmacists, and nurses, are available 24/7 to provide free, expert, and confidential guidance. When calling, be prepared to provide the child’s age and weight, the name of the plant (Pothos), the estimated amount ingested, and any current symptoms.
Medical advice typically involves supportive care focused on managing pain and irritation. Specialists will advise whether monitoring at home is appropriate or if emergency medical care is needed for severe reactions, such as swelling that interferes with breathing. Cool liquids or age-appropriate cold foods are often suggested to help reduce the oral swelling and burning sensation.
Keeping Pothos Plants Safe Around Children
Preventative measures are essential for ensuring a child’s safety when Pothos plants are in the home. Since toddlers explore by reaching and mouthing, placing plants in physically inaccessible locations is the primary strategy. Utilizing high shelves, mantels, or wall-mounted pots keeps the greenery out of a child’s reach.
Hanging baskets are effective, but ensure the trailing vines are not long enough to be grabbed, as the vining nature of Pothos poses a constant risk as it grows. Check the area around the plant frequently for fallen leaves or snipped pieces a baby could pick up. To eliminate the risk entirely, choosing non-toxic plant alternatives, such as the spider plant or certain types of ivy, is a simple solution.