Page 19 - The world of dangerous PLants

Family:Asteraceae

Chrysanthemum is a genus of numerous species of perennial
C.arisanense C.integrifolium herbaceous flowering plants, simply referred to as mums or chry-
sanths. All the plants of this genus are toxic and have a low toxicity
level. Symptoms of toxic poisoning, for humans, pets and grazing live-
stock, could be excessive salivation, drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, and
a general lack of coordination. Touching them is generally safe. How-
ever, people with sensitive skin may get an irritating rash and some
C. × morifolium C.zawadzki could have an allergic reaction. Although only mildly toxic for hu-
mans, animals like cats, dogs and horses, the toxicity level is high, and
eating any part of these plants can cause them extreme distress, and
the symptoms of poisoning will be visibly more pronounced. If you
suspect poisoning, especially in your pets, you should get medical help
immediately.

Family:Rutaceae
Citrus is a genus of numerous species of flowering fruit baring trees
and shrubs. The plants in this genus are not considered toxic or poison-
ous. However, they do contain aromatic oils that help enhance the scent
and flavour of the fruit, and these oils, if consumed in excess, can cause
digestive discomfort. People, especially children, who are sensitive to
citrus, and consume these oils in excess, could find themselves feeling
unwell and having symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea. An-
imals such as cats and dogs can be particularly sensitive to these oils and
will display symptoms such as distress, vomiting, or diarrhoea. These oils
also react to hot sunlight and if they get on the skin people with sensitive
skin could end up with mild burns and blisters. The good news is howev-
er, that none of these adverse effects are harmful or life threatening –
just a passing discomfort. Once the system has cleaned out the offending
oils the symptoms disappear.

Family:Ranunculaceae
Clematis, is a genus of numerous species of vigorous, woody, flower-
ing climbing vines. All clematis are considered to be toxic, though some
C.viticella C.terniflora more than others. The evergreens, C.cirrhosa and C.armandii are believed
to be the most toxic and have a low to medium toxicity level. Symptoms of
toxic poisoning, for both humans and animals, can be excessive mouth-
watering, severe abdominal pain, vomiting or diarrhoea, lethargy and loss
of appetite. Although, handling the plant is thought safe, contact with
torn or split leaves or twigs could cause skin irritation and blisters. The
C.horripilata C.akebioides clematis is a huge genus and is divided into several groups. If you have a
clematis and are unsure of its toxicity, then research it using its scientific
name. Otherwise treat it with caution. School children on the potential
danger it poses. Supervise your pets making sure they do not eat or chew
any part of the plant and due to the dubious toxicity of many of these
plants always wear gloves when handling it.