The African Milk Tree, Euphorbia trigona, is a popular houseplant often chosen for its striking, cactus-like appearance. Like other species in the Euphorbia family, this succulent produces a milky white liquid, called latex or sap, whenever the plant is damaged or cut. This sap is toxic and acts as a severe irritant upon contact with skin or eyes, and it can cause significant distress if ingested. Recognizing the signs of exposure and knowing immediate first aid steps are important.
Understanding the Toxic Substance
The toxic component is the milky latex sap, which contains irritating substances, primarily a class of compounds known as diterpenoid esters. These chemicals are highly irritating to human and animal tissues, acting as a potent local irritant.
The sap’s toxicity is generally not systemic, meaning it does not typically circulate through the bloodstream to cause widespread poisoning. Instead, its danger lies in its ability to cause intense inflammation and damage where it makes contact, such as on the skin, eyes, or internal mucous membranes. Even a small amount can cause significant discomfort.
Identifying Symptoms of Exposure
Symptoms may be immediate or delayed, sometimes taking several hours to fully appear.
Dermal contact typically results in irritant contact dermatitis. This presents as localized redness, swelling, intense itching, and a burning sensation. In more severe cases, the skin may develop a rash, blistering, or lesions that resemble a partial thickness burn.
Ocular exposure is considered a medical emergency due to the potential for severe damage. Initial symptoms include severe pain, a burning sensation, and blurred vision. The toxic sap can cause conjunctival inflammation and corneal edema. Without immediate treatment, ocular exposure can lead to temporary or permanent vision loss.
Ingestion of the sap is rare but causes irritation of the digestive tract. The sap creates an immediate burning sensation in the mouth, lips, and throat. This internal irritation often leads to nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and gastrointestinal upset.
Essential Immediate First Aid
Acting quickly can significantly reduce the severity of the reaction.
For skin contact, the affected area must be washed thoroughly and immediately with soap and water. The washing should be continuous for at least 15 to 20 minutes to ensure the sticky latex is fully removed from the skin. Any clothing that came into contact with the sap should be promptly removed to prevent secondary exposure.
If the sap contacts the eyes, begin flushing them immediately with a continuous stream of lukewarm water or saline solution for a minimum of 15 minutes. The eyelids must be held open during the entire irrigation process. If contact lenses are worn, they should be removed during the flushing process.
In the event of accidental ingestion, the mouth should be thoroughly rinsed, and the person should be given small amounts of water or milk to sip. Vomiting should never be induced unless specifically instructed to do so by a medical professional or poison control center. When handling the damaged plant or assisting an exposed individual, wear protective gloves.
Guidelines for Seeking Medical Help
Professional medical intervention is necessary in several scenarios. The U.S. national Poison Help Line (1-800-222-1222) should be called immediately for advice regarding any ingestion or significant exposure. Early treatment is often linked to a better outcome.
Specific triggers for seeking emergency medical care include significant eye pain, vision changes, or persistent redness after initial flushing. Seek emergency care if the exposed person experiences difficulty breathing or swallowing, persistent severe vomiting, or a rapidly spreading skin rash and swelling. Exposures involving infants, the elderly, or individuals with known sensitivities should always be escalated to professional care quickly.