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Poinsettia - Overview

Alternative Names

Christmas flower poisoning; Lobster plant poisoning; Painted leaf poisoning

Definition of Poinsettia:

Poinsettia poisoning occurs when someone touches the sap of the poinsettia plant or eats parts of the plant.

This is for information only and not for use in the treatment or management of an actual poison exposure. If you have an exposure, you should call your local emergency number (such as 911) or the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.

Poisonous Ingredient:

Diterpene esters

Where Found:

Leaves, stem, sap of the poinsettia plant

Reviewed last on: 2/17/2009
A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Greg Juhn, MTPW, David R. Eltz. Previously reviewed by Stephen C. Acosta, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, Portland VA Medical Center, Portland, OR. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (2/27/2008).

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