After a man was poisoned when he touched it...Does an ornamental plant cause death?

Weather of Arabia - A Jordanian citizen retold the details of a serious incident that she and her family were exposed to due to a houseplant used for decoration known as “elephant ear.”

She explained that she planted the “Elephant Ear” or “Alocasia” plant for ornamental purposes, without realizing its danger, as her husband was poisoned after he accidentally touched the stem’s sap. She stressed the need for caution when dealing with this plant, noting that doctors warned her of its toxic danger, and that it It can cause significant damage to the kidneys if any part of it is swallowed.

Plant expert Yazan Al-Rashed commented on the matter, saying that the “elephant ear” or taro plant of all kinds secretes toxins when pressure is applied to the stem or leaves, and it becomes highly toxic when its leaves are chewed. Al-Rashed explained that the juice secreted by the plant contains calcium oxalate, which is a toxic substance. He advised wearing gloves when dealing with the plant, keeping it out of the reach of children, and completely avoiding chewing its leaves to avoid health damage that could lead to death in some cases.

He called on citizens to replace this plant with other types of ornamental plants, given that all taro species are considered poisonous and can pose a danger.

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How is elephant ear poisonous?

Elephant ear, scientifically known as Alocasia, is a popular ornamental plant belonging to the Araceae family. This plant is characterized by its large, attractive leaves that resemble the shape of an elephant's ear, which is what earned it this common name. The "Elephant Ear" plant is a perennial plant, and is found in different types and shapes.

• How is it toxic?

The "Elephant Ear" plant contains toxic chemical compounds, and one of the most prominent of these compounds is **Calcium oxalate**. This substance is found in plant sap, and is a crystalline substance that can cause severe irritation when it comes into contact with the skin or mucous membranes. When chewing or swallowing any part of the plant, calcium oxalate can cause severe burns and irritation in the mouth, throat, and digestive system, and may lead to serious health complications such as:

1. Mouth and throat irritation: burning and pain.
2. Difficulty breathing: due to swelling of the throat.
3. Stomach pain: the result of poisoning of the digestive system.
4. Effects on the kidneys: Eating large amounts may cause kidney damage.

• preventive measures:

1. Wear gloves: When handling the plant to avoid contact with the toxic sap.
2. Keep the plant away from children and pets: to ensure that they do not chew the leaves or part of the plant.
3. Wash your hands well after handling the plant: to avoid any unintentional contact with the toxic sap.

In short, despite the beauty of the elephant ear plant and its common ornamental use, it requires great care when handling it due to its potential toxicity.

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