The rubber tree is one of the most popular indoor plants. But again and again one hears that the rubber tree is poisonous for humans and animals. We clarify.
Anyone who has pets or small children usually has a hard time finding the right houseplant. The danger that the dear little ones could get their hands or paws on a poisonous plant is too great. So is the popular rubber tree (Ficus elastica) poisonous or harmless? Below you will find out whether the rubber tree is poisonous to humans and animals and what to do in case of poisoning.
Is the rubber tree poisonous to humans?
The rubber tree is not entirely harmless, but actually slightly poisonous. An ingredient in the leaves is primarily responsible for this. In addition to harmless rubber, waxes and coumarin, the leaves also contain chlorogenic acid. This is what makes the rubber tree a bit dangerous, as it is a slightly toxic substance. The bark of the rubber tree also contains yellow acid, which is also toxic.
Due to their ingredients, both the leaves and the trunk of the rubber tree are slightly poisonous and contact with the skin can lead to irritation and skin irritation. In some cases, allergic reactions can also occur. If you swallow plant parts of the tree, this leads to irritation of the mucous membranes.
Gum Tree Poisoning Symptoms:
- Skin irritation
- Allergic Reactions
- nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach and intestine problems
- Diarrhea
- cramps
- Paralysis
The slightly poisonous rubber tree is usually not dangerous for adults if gloves are worn when working on the tree and the skin is protected in this way. Because the concentration of the toxic substances in the plant parts is very low, swallowing them is unlikely to cause poisoning in adults. It is different with small children. Due to their small body mass, even a small amount is enough to cause poisoning. ThereHowever, if the rubber tree tastes bitter and inedible, the parts of the plant are usually spat out immediately by children. Only the smallest amounts of the poisonous parts of the plant get into the child's organism. However, as soon as you realize that your child has eaten from the rubber tree, you should consult a doctor immediately.
Tip: If you are satisfied with a small specimen of the rubber tree, you do not have to do without it because of its toxicity. It is placed on a cupboard or dresser out of the reach of children and is therefore not dangerous for the little ones.
Is the rubber tree poisonous for cats, dogs and Co.?
The rubber tree is also slightly toxic for pets. However, due to their small body mass, small pets are more likely to react to the poison of the rubber tree. Not only cats and dogs, but also smaller animals like rabbits, hamsters or guinea pigs like to nibble on green indoor plants. Eating the rubber tree can also cause irritation of the mucous membranes, stomach cramps, vomiting and diarrhea in your furry roommates. If you suspect poisoning from the rubber tree, you should take your animal to a vet to be on the safe side.
But pet owners don't have to do without the rubber tree at home. The inedible leaves have little appeal to four-legged friends. Even if they gnaw the leaves out of curiosity, they quickly realize that the leaves don't taste good. You probably won't try again.
Treatment measures for rubber tree poisoning
If, despite all precautionary measures, parts of the rubber tree have been swallowed or come into contact with the skin, you should know what to do now. In case of skin contact, hold the affected area under running, lukewarm water. The skin irritation should then quickly disappear.
If you swallow parts of the rubber tree, you should try to dilute the poison as much as possible. You can do this by drinking as much liquid as possible. Make sure you drink water or tea, but not milk. It is also important not to induce vomiting, otherwise the poisonous parts of the plant will come into contact with the mucous membranes again and cause irritation. If there are severe signs of poisoning, you should definitely consult a doctor to be on the safe side.
Correct action in case of rubber tree poisoning:
- Drink plenty of fluids in the form of water or tea
- Do not induce vomiting
- See doctor
Tip: If poisoning is suspected, a phone call to the poison control center in Bonn on 0228/19240 will help. At the poison control center, medical professionals provide advice 24 hours a day on all types of acute poisoning.
If you would like to learn more interesting facts about the rubber tree, for example where it comes from and how it is best cultivated, then you can read on here.
Are you looking for more kid and pet friendly plants? Then we will show you more of them in our special article.