The associate professor warned about the dangers of some indoor plants
Many familiar indoor plants can be dangerous to humans and animals. On October 7, Maria Zolotareva, Candidate of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Associate Professor of the Department of Biotechnology and Industrial Pharmacy at RTU MIREA, warned about this.
"For example, representatives of the Araceae family, such as diffenbachia, spathiphyllum, anthurium and monstera, contain calcium oxalate crystals. In case of damage to the leaves or stem, these microscopic structures are released and, in direct contact with human skin or mucous membrane, can cause intense irritation," she explained in an interview with Gazeta.Ru».
According to the expert, oleandrin and cornerin, a popular ornamental shrub, are no less toxic. Even if a small amount of the plant enters the body, severe heart disorders can occur.
Plants from the Euphorbiaceae family are also dangerous — poinsettia, croton and euphorbia are the most beautiful. If the juice gets into the eyes, temporary blindness can be caused.
Even fragrant geraniums, known for their antiseptic properties, may not be safe. The smell can cause attacks of allergic asthma and headaches. According to the expert, the risk arises not from the very presence of plants, but from improper handling of them.
"The main precaution with such plants is to place pots in places inaccessible to children and animals. All work on transplanting and pruning plants must be carried out with gloves, and after completion of the work, wash your hands thoroughly with soap. If poisoning is suspected, you should immediately consult a doctor, informing him about the type of plant with which you have been in contact," Zolotareva concluded.
On July 28, Izvestia reported on indoor plants for beginners. One of the most unpretentious plants is sansevieria, or "pike's tail". It easily tolerates the absence of light, is not afraid of drafts, and it is watered no more than once every two weeks.
All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.
Переведено сервисом «Яндекс Переводчик»
