The Second Type of Dermatitis Plant is a Chemical Irritant.

The Euphorbia will more than just irritate you.

Photo by Cecilia Skaf on Unsplash

Euphorbia plants may contain highly irritant sap. These plants include the crown of thorns, the candelabra cactus, and the pencil tree. They produce a milky sap that is highly toxic and can cause temporary blindness and burns to the skin, mouth, lips, and tongue.

Due to the sap's toxicity, it is recommended that people who handle euphorbia plants wear eye protection and suitable gardening gloves.

Many cultures have used these plants in alternative medicine.

Toxic Dose

The Euphorbia species contain varying concentrations of irritant diterpene esters. The severity of reactions will vary with the species, the amount of sap or latex exposure, and the duration of contact.

Pharmacokinetics

Irritation to the skin can occur within two to eight hours after exposure to the skin. This can increase to blisters and vesicles over 12 hours.

Usually, the inflammation can fade over three to four days without scarring.

Effects

Skin will become reddened and start to swell. Blisters can develop and usually crust over within a day or so. These results can…