'Tis the season for the beloved plants of our Christmas traditions, with which we festoon our homes to fight off depression around the winter solstice. Combined with the houseplants we use to green up the wintertime home, they form an indoor garden of joy -- but also one of danger, potentially.
For, unfortunately, some of the specimens that grace our homes this time of year are poisonous plants -- in one way or another. Mistletoe, for example, can deliver the kiss of death if its berries are eaten. And while accidentally ingesting a leaf from a Christmas poinsettia is now generally not believed to be as dangerous as was once thought, more of us than you might think suffer from poinsettia plant allergy.
If you have small children, this information is probably frightening. Your best defense is to be prepared for the worst. "A Poison Control Center is usually a better resource than your own doctor if you suspect that your child has been poisoned," scribes Vincent Iannelli, M.D. "The poison center is quickly available in an emergency situation and has experts with access to specific information on different types of poisons and other substances that may harm children," continues About.com's Guide to Pediatrics, adding that "if your child has collapsed or is not breathing, call 911 instead."
Wintertime fun: How to Make a Snowman
Get your dose of holiday cheer: Picture of Inflatable Snowman
Voice your opinion: What Are the Best Christmas Yard Decorations?
Photo ©2006 David Beaulieu (licensed to About, Inc.)
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