Elephant ear Health Article

Definition

This article describes poisoning caused by consumption of plant material from the elephant ear plant.

Poisonous Ingredient

• oxalic acid
• asparagine, a protein found in this plant

Note: Leaves and stems are the most dangerous if eaten in quantity.

Where Found

Elephant ear grows naturally in tropical and sub-tropical areas, but is easily found in northern climates as well.

Symptoms

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

Home Treatment

Wipe out the mouth with a 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 plant
• 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.