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Health Information Encyclopedia - Poison


Jack-in-the-pulpit

Definition:

This article describes poisoning caused by consumption of plant material from Jack-in-the-pulpit.



Alternative Names: Arisaema triphyllum; Bog onion; Brown dragon; Indian turnip; Wake robin; Wild turnip

Poisonous Ingredient:

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



Where Found:
  • Arisaema triphyllum (Jack-in-the-pulpit)
Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms:
  • body as a whole
    • burning in mouth
    • swelling of tongue
    • swelling of mouth
    • slurred speech
  • eyes, ears, nose, and throat
    • burning pain in the throat
    • teary eyes
  • gastrointestinal
    • nausea and vomiting
    • diarrhea


Home Treatment:

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

Wash skin with water. If eye involvement, irrigate eyes with water.



Before Calling Emergency:

Determine the following information:

  • the patient's age, weight, and condition
  • the name of the plant and the parts eaten
  • 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 person 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):

Plants containing oxalic acid 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.

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