The Peace Lily, scientifically known as Spathiphyllum, is a common houseplant recognized for its glossy green foliage and distinctive white flower-like spathes. Despite its common presence in homes and offices, this plant contains irritant substances that pose a risk if ingested or handled improperly. The answer to whether the Peace Lily is toxic to humans is yes, but the resulting reactions are typically mild and highly localized. Understanding the nature of this toxicity is important for maintaining a safe indoor environment, especially in homes with small children or vulnerable adults.
The Mechanism of Peace Lily Toxicity
The irritating properties of the Peace Lily are due to the presence of insoluble calcium oxalate crystals found in all parts of the plant, including the leaves, stems, and flowers. These microscopic, needle-shaped structures are known as raphides and serve as a natural defense mechanism for the plant. They are stored within specialized cells called idioblasts, which rupture when the plant tissue is chewed or damaged.
When released, the raphides penetrate the delicate mucous membranes of the mouth and throat. This physical penetration causes intense mechanical irritation, which is then compounded by the chemical irritation from the calcium oxalate itself. The effects are generally limited to the area of contact because these crystals are insoluble and not readily absorbed into the bloodstream, meaning systemic poisoning is not a concern.
Symptoms of Ingestion and Contact
Ingesting any part of the Peace Lily can quickly lead to a range of localized symptoms in the mouth and upper digestive tract. The initial reaction is often described as an immediate burning or tingling sensation on the lips, tongue, and inside of the mouth. This localized irritation is followed by visible swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat tissues. Other common reactions to oral exposure include excessive drooling, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), and a hoarse voice.
In some instances, a person may experience nausea and vomiting as the body attempts to expel the irritant. These symptoms occur rapidly, often within minutes of chewing the plant material. Dermal contact with the plant sap, such as during pruning or repotting, may also cause a mild skin reaction. This contact-related irritation typically presents as a temporary rash, redness, itching, or localized swelling on the skin.
Immediate Steps and When to Seek Help
If a person has chewed or ingested any part of a Peace Lily, the first step is to remove any remaining plant material from the mouth. Gently wipe the mouth with a wet cloth and encourage the exposed person to rinse and spit with water to help clear the irritant crystals. Offering small sips of milk, a popsicle, or ice chips can help soothe the burning sensation and reduce the immediate discomfort.
When to Seek Help
Contacting a poison control center immediately is recommended, regardless of the apparent severity of the symptoms, as they can provide personalized medical guidance. Seek urgent medical attention if the exposed person develops significant swelling of the tongue or throat, has difficulty breathing, or exhibits persistent vomiting. These more severe reactions could indicate a compromised airway and require professional medical assessment.
Prevention
To minimize the risk of accidental exposure, household Peace Lilies should be placed in locations that are well out of reach of small children and pets. Using high shelves, secure plant stands, or rooms that are inaccessible to vulnerable individuals can effectively mitigate the hazard. Awareness of the plant’s toxic nature is a primary defense, so knowing the botanical name, Spathiphyllum, is helpful in an emergency.
When handling the plant for maintenance tasks like pruning, repotting, or cleaning, wearing gloves offers a simple barrier against the irritating sap. This precaution helps prevent the dermal contact that can lead to localized skin irritation and rash. Regularly inspecting the plant for fallen leaves or flowers that might be accessible on the floor is another straightforward practice to maintain a safe environment.