Can I eat dieffenbachia stems?
Quick Answer
No
Dieffenbachia, also known as dumb cane, is a type of houseplant that contains toxic substances. Eating its stems can cause severe irritation and swelling in the mouth and throat.
What Is It?
Dieffenbachia is a genus of tropical flowering plants in the family Araceae. It is a popular houseplant due to its attractive foliage. However, all parts of the plant are poisonous if ingested.
Why It Can Be Risky
Ingesting dieffenbachia stems poses several health risks.
- Oral irritation: The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals which can cause a burning sensation and swelling in the mouth, lips, and tongue.
- Difficulty swallowing: The swelling can lead to difficulty in swallowing and breathing.
- Nausea and vomiting: Ingesting the plant can cause stomach upset and vomiting.