Definition

This article describes poisoning caused by consumption of plant material from the Calla Lily.

Poisonous Ingredient

Note: The roots are the most dangerous part of the plant.

Where Found

  • calla lily genus Zantedeschia
Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

  • body as a whole
    • burning in mouth
    • swelling of tongue
    • swelling of mouth
  • eyes, ears, nose, and throat
    • burning in throat
    • redness, swelling, pain, and burning of the eyes
  • gastrointestinal
    • nausea and/or vomiting
    • diarrhea

Home Treatment

  • Wipe out mouth with cold, wet cloth.
  • Give milk to drink.

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following information:

  • the patient's age, weight, and condition
  • the name of the product (ingredients and strengths if known)
  • the time it was swallowed
  • the amount swallowed

Poison Control, or a local emergency number

They will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses. Bring the plant with you to the emergency room for identification.

What to expect at the emergency room

The symptoms will be treated.

Expectations (prognosis)

Oxalate plants may cause swelling severe enough to block the airway but this is very rare.

Review Date:2/13/2006
Reviewed By: Eric Perez, M.D., Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.