Many parents were alerted last  fall
by the American Academy of Pediatrics and other organizations
to dispose of Ipecac syrup for accidental toxic ingestions
around the home. This makes it even more imperative
that
responsible adults maintain a safe home environment
and be able to recognize possible symptoms of a poisoning.
I am often asked which plants are toxic
and which are safe for the home
and garden areas. Listed here are more than a few
relatively safe plants -
which if ingested are not likely to cause serious
health problems:
- African Violet
- Boston Fern
- Carnation
- Christmas Cactus
- Chrysanthemum
- Coleus
- Dandelion
- Eucalyptus
- Fern
- Forsythia
- Gardenia
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- Honeysuckle
- Jade Plant
- Marigold
- Mint
- Rose
- Rubber Plant
- snapdragon
- Spider Plant
- Swedish Ivy
- Tulip
- Violet
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Consider these as part of a garden that is as non-toxic
as one can plan
for. If you are interested in which plants are quite
toxic and should be
avoided, purchase a copy of the Peterson field Guide
to Venemous Animals &
Poisonous Plants. You can order it through the Save
A Little Life web site
by going to "Suggested Readings" and obtain
in via the internet through
Powells Books.
What to look for if you suspect a poisoning
Symptoms to observe for in an infant or child with
suspected toxic
ingestion include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Drooling (excessively and for no apparent reason)
- Throat pain/burning
- A seizure
- Unusually drowsy (at an innapropriate time)
Don't forget to have these 2 numbers posted on your
Emergency Phone List:
- Poison Control (L.A. County) (800) 876-4766
- Poison Control (National hotline) (800)
222-1222
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