10 Houseplants That Could Be Harmful to Your Health

IIndoor plants are becoming increasingly popular as people reside in smaller apartments. While decorating their homes, individuals may select plants that require caution, particularly when there are potential health risks involved.

Caution: The following list of plants might be unexpected!

Sansevieria

The Sansevieria, commonly referred to as the "snake plant," is favored for indoor decoration. It contains a compound known as saponin, which can be poisonous if consumed. Given that saponins can induce nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, it's advisable to prevent pets from accessing the plant.

Dieffenbachia

Despite its attractive foliage, Dieffenbachia is a common plant that can cause poisoning. Accidental contact can lead to mouth blisters, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, a burning sensation in the mouth and throat, as well as swelling and pain.

ZZ Plant

Zamioculcas zamiifolia, commonly known as the "ZZ plant," can cause pain, skin irritation, and swelling if ingested. In case of contact, wash the affected area with running water and seek medical advice if needed.

Marigolds

Ingesting Tagetes, commonly known as Marigolds, can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. Additionally, contact with the plant's sap may result in skin rashes.

Heartleaf Philodendron

The Philodendron plant, while aesthetically pleasing, contains calcium oxalate, a substance that can cause pain and difficulty in swallowing. It's important to ensure pets are kept at a distance from this plant.

Caladium

While its heart-shaped leaves may appear charming, caution is advised as this plant is toxic and hazardous. Should animals or children come into contact with the leaves of the Caladium plant, symptoms such as drooling and difficulty breathing may occur. In such instances, it's crucial to seek assistance from a toxicology expert or a poison control center and cleanse the affected area immediately.

Pothos

Pothos plants are known for their large, elegantly shaped leaves, which add a touch of elegance to home decor. Despite the unusual name, many recognize it by its more common moniker: Devil's Ivy. Similar to the plants mentioned earlier, Pothos contains substances such as calcium oxalate, which can cause irritation to the lips, tongue, and mouth, as well as excessive drooling and vomiting.

Aloe

The Aloe plant boasts a range of uses, and its inclusion on this list might come as a surprise. Scientists have found that this plant contains compounds that can lead to diarrhea, allergies, and kidney issues.

Euphorbia tirucalli

Despite its beauty, Euphorbia tirucalli contains a corrosive sap that can cause severe irritation to the skin and eyes. Therefore, it is essential to handle this plant with great care, using gloves and eye protection.

Should the sap come into contact with the eyes, one may experience redness, itching, and burning sensations, which could adversely affect vision.

Foxglove

The Digitalis purpurea, a stunning purple flower, is often found in ornamental gardens or kept as a houseplant. 

Many are unaware that its leaves, flowers, and seeds contain a substance called digoxin, which is deadly if ingested by animals or humans. 

Due to its toxic nature, possessing this plant indoors poses a significant health risk to both people and pets living in its vicinity. 

If the risks concern you but you still wish to have one, ensure that children and pets are kept at a distance, and always handle the plant with gloves. 

Do you keep any of these plants in your home?