Dipladenia, often marketed interchangeably with the related climbing vine Mandevilla, is a popular ornamental plant. Dipladenia is considered mildly toxic to humans if ingested, and its sap can cause irritation upon contact. The toxic effects are generally localized and temporary, and the plant is not typically associated with severe, life-threatening systemic poisoning in healthy adults. All parts of the plant, including the stems, leaves, and flowers, contain substances that can cause adverse reactions.
Understanding the Toxic Components
The primary source of toxicity in Dipladenia (and Mandevilla) is the milky white sap, known as latex, contained within the plant’s stems and leaves. This latex is released when any part of the plant is broken or damaged, such as during pruning or accidental breakage. The sap is a toxic irritant and serves as the plant’s main defense mechanism against herbivores.
The specific compounds responsible for irritation and toxicity belong to a class of substances that can cause gastrointestinal upset and dermal reactions. The sap contains irritants, such as cardiac glycosides, common to the Apocynaceae family, to which Dipladenia belongs. These compounds act as a deterrent to ingestion, which is why the plant is often resistant to deer and rabbits.
Recognizing Symptoms of Exposure
Symptoms of exposure vary depending on the route of contact with the plant’s sap or tissues. Dermal contact with the white latex can lead to localized skin irritation. This irritation may manifest as redness, itching, and a mild form of dermatitis in sensitive individuals. The reaction is typically confined to the area that came into direct contact with the sap.
If the sap contacts the eyes, a burning sensation, tearing, and irritation of the delicate eye tissues may occur. This type of exposure requires immediate attention due to the sensitivity of the mucous membranes.
Ingestion of any plant part, including the leaves or flowers, can lead to gastrointestinal distress. Symptoms usually include mild indigestion, stomach upset, nausea, and vomiting. In some cases, a person may also experience diarrhea or sores around the mouth, depending on the quantity consumed. For most healthy adults, these symptoms are temporary and localized.
Necessary Safety Measures After Contact
Immediate action following contact with Dipladenia sap helps minimize adverse effects. If the sap gets on the skin, the affected area should be washed right away with soap and plenty of lukewarm water. This removes the irritating latex before it can cause a significant skin reaction.
For eye exposure, the eyes must be flushed thoroughly with a continuous stream of clean, running water for at least 10 to 15 minutes. If irritation or blurring persists after flushing, seeking medical attention is recommended.
If any part of the plant has been ingested, immediately rinse the mouth to remove any remaining plant material. Then, give the person small sips of water or milk.
It is advised to contact a Poison Control Center for guidance, regardless of the severity of initial symptoms. When calling, provide the name of the plant, the part of the plant involved, and the approximate time of exposure. Wearing gardening gloves when pruning or handling the plant is an effective measure to prevent accidental skin contact.