Page 21 - The world of dangerous PLants

Family:Plantaginaceae

Digitalis is a genus of about 20 species of herbaceous perennial
shrubs and biennials, all commonly known as foxgloves. All plants of
D.lutea D.purpurea
this genus are toxic and have a medium to high toxicity level. Symptoms
of toxic poisoning for humans and most animals, could be nausea, vom-
iting, diarrhoea, irregular heartbeat, and in severe cases, kidney and
heart problems. Handling them is generally safe; however, being they
are toxic, you should always wear gloves when handling them. Although
D.ciliata D.lanata reported poisoning from the foxglove plant is rare, most that are report-
ed are due to misidentification. Foxgloves leaves are easily mistaken for
other edible plants such as, the Great Mullein, which results in acci-
dental poisoning. The Digitalis plants are dangerous and children should
be warned and told never to eat or put any part of them near their
mouths. Pets should be closely supervised, to avoid them from eating or
chewing any part of them.

Family:Cannabaceae

H.lupulus
Humulus, or hop, is a genus of about 8 species of flowering
hardy perennial vines. None of the plants in this genus are listed
as harmful or dangerous to humans, though there is a suggestion
that eating the hop fruit may have some side effects, especially
for pregnant women, but this has not been confirmed. The hop
H.japonicus Syn.H.scandens plant, however, especially the cones of the fruit, are dangerous to
cats and dogs, and could be fatal. Symptoms of toxic poisoning
can be rapid loss of temperature, heavy breathing and distress
followed by seizure. If you suspect your pet is suffering from tox-
ic poisoning, you should seek veterinary help immediately.

Not to be confused with Poison ivy.

Family:Araliaceae
Hedera, is a genus of about 15 species of evergreen climbing or
H.helix H.canariensis ground-creeping old world woody vines, usually referred to as ivy or Com-
mon ivy. All plants in this genus especially their leaves, stems, and berries,
are considered toxic and have a low to medium toxicity level. Symptoms of
toxic poisoning for humans and animals could be, abdominal pain, vomit-
ing and diarrhoea, while some may experience more severe mouth and
throat swelling and shortness of breath. Skin contact with the plants sap
H.colchica H.cypria can cause irritation to the skin and contact dermatitis. Despite their toxici-
ty Hedera plants have been used in traditional medicine and herbalism,
and some have even been found to have medicinal properties. However,
these plants should be treated with caution, so always wear gloves when
handling them. Children should be taught about the danger they pose and
pets kept away from them.