🌿 BEWARE OF THESE TOXIC PLANTS: Stay Informed, Stay Safe

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12 Toxic Plants You Should Never Ignore

1. 

Oleander (Nerium oleander) – Adodó

All parts of this popular ornamental plant are poisonous. Ingestion or even skin contact can cause irritation and severe health issues. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

2. 

Angel’s Trumpets (Brugmansia spp.) – Gegemu

Beautiful but deadly. The flowers, nectar, and seeds are highly toxic. Ingestion may lead to hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, and even coma.

3. 

Castor Bean Plant (Ricinus communis) – Ìlàrà

This plant contains ricin, one of the most poisonous naturally occurring substances. Just a few chewed seeds can be fatal.

4. 

Hemlock (Conium maculatum) – Èwé Ìgún

Historically used as poison in ancient executions, Hemlock can cause paralysis and death. Avoid touching or inhaling it.

5. 

Deadly Nightshade (Atropa belladonna) – Ògìdán

Pretty but perilous. Even a small amount of this plant can cause hallucinations, seizures, and death if ingested.

6. 

Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) – Ìtànná Ìpadò / Èwé Òrò

Used in some herbal remedies, but extremely poisonous. It can disrupt heart function if taken internally.

7. 

Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) – Lobíírí

This lovely flowering plant can be deadly. Its toxins affect the heart, and just touching it can be harmful to sensitive skin.

8. 

Daphne (Daphne spp.) – Èwé Dáfínì

Don’t be deceived by its fragrance or pretty berries. Daphne is highly toxic and can be fatal if eaten.

9. 

Water Hemlock (Cicuta maculata) – Èwé Ìgún Inú Odò

One of the most poisonous plants in Nigeria. It attacks the central nervous system and can lead to seizures and death.

10. 

Euphorbia (Euphorbia spp.) – Èwé Èmílẹ

These are common in gardens, but their milky sap can cause intense skin irritation or blindness if it gets in the eyes.

11. 

Cycads (Cycas spp.) – Ìgbó Ọ̀pẹ̀lẹ̀ / Ìgì Ọ̀pẹ̀lẹ̀

Often mistaken for palms, their seeds are toxic unless processed correctly. Handle with care, and never eat them raw.

12. 

Mistletoe (Viscum spp.) – Àfòmó

While used traditionally in herbal medicine, mistletoe contains toxins that affect the heart and nervous system when ingested improperly.

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How to Stay Safe: Simple Precautions

• Don’t touch or eat plants you’re unfamiliar with.
• Educate your children about the dangers of eating unknown fruits or leaves.
• Always wear gloves when gardening or handling plants.
• Keep houseplants labeled and stored safely, especially if they are toxic.
• In schools and public spaces, make sure landscaping avoids these dangerous plants.
• When in doubt, consult a botanist or environmental health officer.

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In Case of Poisoning: What to Do

• Call emergency services immediately.
• Do not induce vomiting unless advised by a professional.
• Take a sample of the plant (if safe to do so) to help medical personnel identify it.
• Watch for symptoms such as dizziness, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or abnormal heart rate.

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Final Thoughts

Nature is beautiful — but it demands respect and knowledge. At NIFSGISTS UPDATE, we’re committed to providing life-saving information. Share this article with friends, parents, schools, and caregivers to help raise awareness about plant-related poisoning.

Together, let’s create a safer environment  one post at a time. 🌿✨