English ivy, scientifically known as Hedera helix, is a common ornamental groundcover and houseplant. Despite its common presence, this plant is not safe for consumption by humans or household pets. All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, posing a risk to curious children and animals. This toxicity results from specialized chemical compounds the plant produces.
Why English Ivy is Poisonous
The toxicity of English ivy stems from triterpenoid saponins, a class of chemical compounds. These compounds include hederasaponins, hederin, and hederagenin, which cause significant irritation upon contact with the digestive system. The saponins are naturally bitter and irritating, which often limits the amount a person or pet will ingest.
While all components are toxic, the leaves and the small, dark berries contain the highest concentration of these chemicals. Ingesting English ivy typically leads to immediate symptoms. These can include a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
In most human cases, ingestion results in mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress. Consuming a large amount can potentially lead to more severe reactions. Although rare, large-scale ingestion has been linked to nervous system effects such as delirium, fever, or coma. Because the saponins are poorly absorbed by the body, the primary danger is the direct irritation they cause to the gastrointestinal tract.
Safety Measures and Emergency Response
Preventing exposure to English ivy is the safest approach, especially in households with young children or pets. For outdoor plants, consider placing barriers or removing the plant entirely from areas where children and animals play. Indoor plants should be placed in hanging baskets or on high shelves where they are completely inaccessible to prevent accidental ingestion.
Dermal contact with the plant’s sap can also cause adverse reactions due to the presence of irritants like falcarinol. Handling English ivy should always be done while wearing gloves and long sleeves to protect the skin from contact dermatitis. This exposure can result in a red, itchy rash, sometimes accompanied by blistering.
If you suspect that a person or pet has ingested English ivy, immediate action is necessary. Do not wait for symptoms to appear, as early intervention can minimize the effects of the toxins. For human exposure, immediately call the National Poison Control Center at 800-222-1222. For pets, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control hotline, and if possible, rinse the mouth with cool, clear water to remove residual sap.