The plant genus Lantana, primarily Lantana camara, is a popular ornamental shrub known for its vibrant, multi-hued flowers. Widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical climates, the plant contains toxic compounds that pose a significant health hazard to humans and animals. Lantana berries are not edible; they are considered highly toxic, and ingestion of any part of the plant warrants immediate attention. This article clarifies the specific dangers associated with the plant and outlines the necessary response should accidental exposure occur.
Identifying Lantana and Its Toxic Stages
Lantana camara is typically a sprawling shrub that can grow up to six feet tall, often featuring square-shaped stems that may have small, recurved prickles. The foliage consists of oppositely arranged, oval leaves with serrated edges and a rough, wrinkled texture. These leaves often emit a strong, pungent odor when crushed.
The plant produces small, tubular flowers grouped into dense, flat-topped clusters that change color as they mature, displaying shades of red, yellow, orange, and pink. Following the flowers, the plant develops small, fleshy berries, which are the part most commonly ingested by children. These berries start green and hard when immature, then transition to a purplish-black, glossy appearance when fully ripe.
All parts of the Lantana camara plant contain poisonous compounds. The berries, particularly the green, unripe ones, have historically been cited as posing the greatest danger for humans due to a higher concentration of certain toxins. Although mild exposures are common in children, the potential for severe toxicity remains a serious concern. Therefore, both the immature green and the mature black berries should be treated as toxic and avoided.
The Chemical Basis of Poisoning
The toxicity of Lantana camara stems from a group of substances known as pentacyclic triterpenoids. The two most abundant compounds are Lantadene A and Lantadene B. These molecules are lipophilic (fat-soluble), which allows them to interfere with cellular processes.
Once ingested, these lantadenes travel to the liver, where they exert their primary toxic effect, resulting in hepatotoxicity. The mechanism involves disrupting the function of the sodium-potassium pump within the cell membranes of biliary epithelial cells. This interference impairs the normal flow and control of bile within the liver.
The resulting condition is intrahepatic cholestasis, where bile production and secretion are blocked or significantly reduced. Lantadene A is considered the most hepatotoxic of the compounds present in the plant. This cellular damage and subsequent buildup of bile cause the systemic effects seen in severe cases of poisoning.
Clinical Effects of Ingestion and Emergency Action
The immediate clinical effects following ingestion of Lantana berries are typically centered on the gastrointestinal system. Common initial symptoms include vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. These symptoms may appear shortly after the plant material is consumed.
In cases involving larger quantities, the delayed effects of liver damage can become apparent. Systemic toxicity is characterized by signs of impaired liver function, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes due to bile buildup). Affected individuals may also exhibit lethargy, drowsiness, or a rapid heart rate.
Livestock exposed to the plant often develop severe photosensitivity, where unpigmented skin reacts intensely to sunlight, an effect that can also be seen in humans. Compromised liver function can lead to widespread systemic failure. Severe liver impairment and respiratory distress have been reported in extreme cases, necessitating monitoring for delayed hepatotoxicity.
If any part of the Lantana camara plant is ingested, immediate action is required. Contact a regional Poison Control Center or local emergency services right away. In the United States, this national resource can be reached at 1-800-222-1222.
Determine which part of the plant was eaten and the estimated quantity, as this information is needed by medical professionals. Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless specifically instructed to do so by a medical expert. Seeking prompt medical attention is necessary for proper assessment, supportive care, and monitoring for potential delayed liver complications.