Page 63 - The world of dangerous PLants

Family:Solanaceae

C.Baccatum C.Chacoense Capsicum is a genus of about 30 species of flowering plants –which
includes five species, growing chilli peppers –cultivated for their edible
fruit, and generally known as peppers or capsicum. All plants of this ge-
nus are non-toxic and are generally safe to eat. The most popular species
of Capsicum is Sweet Pepper C.annuum , and its variants, Chiltepin pep-
pers and Bell peppers. Most capsicum plants, especially the chilli variety,
C.Flexuosum C.Frutescens produce fruit containing, not a toxin but an irritant, capsaicin. This irri-
tant reacts with saliva and gives the fruit a strong spicy flavour which is
normally harmless. However, over indulging on this irritant can cause
stomach upset, vomiting and diarrhoea and contact with the skin will
cause irritation. Also, people allergic to capsaicin will have a severe aller-
gic reaction should they consume this irritant.

Family:Araceae
Monstera is a genus of 59 species of evergreen climbing vines,
M.Adansonii M.Acuminata
commonly known as the Swiss cheese plant, (M.deliciosa). All plants
of this genus are mildly toxic and have a low toxicity level, though the
fruit of M.deliciosa is edible. Symptoms of toxic poisoning, for both
humans and animals, could be, painful swelling of the mouth, lips,
and tongue, drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, throat swelling
and wheezing. Although considered safe to touch, the sap from them
M.Dubia M.Obliqua can cause, skin irritation and rashes. In their warm natural habitat
these plants are tree climbing vines; however, in temperate regions,
they are popular houseplants. Being much smaller, children and pets
are the most vulnerable to the toxic effects of these plants. With this
in mind, plants in the home should be kept at a high elevation, out of
children’s reach, or in a restricted area where children and pets can-
not access them.

Family:Araceae

Colocasia is a genus of numerous species of large-leaved flowering
plants, some commonly known as Taro. If eaten raw all the plants of this ge-
nus are toxic and have a low to medium toxicity level. Symptoms of poison-
ing for both humans and animals can be, burning pain and swelling in the
lips, mouth, and tongue, salivation, difficulty breathing, swallowing, or
speaking, vomiting or diarrhoea. Contact with the skin could also cause an-
noying irritation and rashes. Also, some species of Toro release slime when
peeling their tubers that can cause severe itching. All the toxins in these
plants are neutralized when properly prepared and cooked, making them
safe to eat. Although the poisoning can be mild, children and pets, due to
their size can be particularly susceptible to the poisonous effects. Children,
therefore, should be warned about eating these plants raw and pets discour-
aged from eating or chewing them.