Baby’s breath contains gyposenin, a saponin that can irritate the gastrointestinal tract. If this happens to your child, you should contact your doctor immediately. The problem is far more common than you might think, but you still have options. Learn about the symptoms and how to prevent it.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of Baby’s Breath being toxic are diarrhea and vomiting. This is usually a mild and temporary reaction to the saponins present in the plant. If you notice any of these symptoms, discontinue handling the plant and contact a doctor or Poison Control Center. Some people are allergic to the saponins in the plant and should use gloves when handling it.
Baby’s Breath is considered mildly toxic to humans, but isn’t harmful to cats. The symptoms usually include mild GI problems and vomiting, and the cat will usually recover in a day or two. This is because the body tries to eliminate the flower from its system, and the symptoms will stop once the plant is gone.
Care
Baby’s breath is a drought-tolerant plant that does not require much care. However, it does need some watering from time to time and should be soaked once a week. Watering should be done only at the base of the plant, so as to avoid fungus infections. A drip irrigation system is a good choice for watering plants in dry climates.
While Baby’s breath is low maintenance, it does have some pests and diseases that need to be kept under control. Aphids and scale shell insects, as well as rabbits, can cause holes in the leaves of this plant. Some pest control products are available that are safe for the plant and are made for indoor plants. Other diseases include fungal infections and root rot.
Growing
The baby’s breath flower is a perennial plant in the carnation family. It is native to Asia, Australia and some areas of Africa. There are around 150 different species. Most of them are perennials, but some are annuals. They are a popular addition to floral arrangements and use in floristry.
Despite its common use in flower arrangements, growing baby’s breath is not recommended for pets. Its flowers are slightly toxic and can cause dermatitis, skin irritation, and itching. Because of these risks, it is important to use protective gloves when pruning the plant.
Pests
In spite of the fact that baby’s breath is toxic to pests, it is not dangerous to humans. However, ingestion can cause gastrointestinal upset and diarrhea. It can also result in a decreased appetite and depression. It is also harmful for older dogs and those with compromised immune systems.
The plant’s toxic properties are due to its mycoplasma-like organism. It spreads through leafhoppers and aphids. Affected plants turn green or yellowish and develop spindly foliage and flowers.
Germs
Babies can have bad breath due to a variety of causes, such as the common cold or allergies. The extra mucus produced by these conditions can harbor bacteria, causing stinky baby breath. Allergy medications can also contribute to bad breath, as they contain antihistamines that reduce saliva production. Regularly brushing and flossing your baby’s teeth will eliminate germs and prevent bad breath. But be sure to be gentle with their delicate gum tissue.
Another cause of foul breath is the toys that your baby uses. Babies often transfer bacteria from their mouth to their toys and pacifiers. If you notice this smell, you should wash the toys and pacifiers thoroughly. If you notice foul breath in older children, it may be due to an infection around a foreign object in the nose or sinuses.
Toxicity
Although it is not life-threatening, your cat may be uncomfortable after ingesting Baby’s breath plants or flowers. If your pet has been exposed to the plant, the symptoms can range from vomiting to diarrhea. Your cat may also lose appetite and experience lethargy. If you think your pet has been exposed to the plant, call your veterinarian for advice.
The reason Baby’s Breath is toxic to dogs is because it contains gyposenin, a saponin that irritates the gastrointestinal tract. If you are a pet owner, it’s essential to protect your dog from exposure to the plant.
Potted plant
While baby’s breath is not poisonous to humans, it can cause rashes and contact dermatitis when handled in large quantities. To avoid this problem, it is important to wash hands after handling the plant, and it is a good idea to wear gardening gloves. If you notice a rash, you should see a doctor. You should also avoid exposing your baby to this plant if he or she has an allergy, since the sap can trigger an allergic reaction in some people.
If you wish to grow baby’s breath in a pot, it is important to plant the seeds in soil that has a good drainage system. Soil that is too dry can cause the plant to wilt. It is important to keep the soil free of weeds and other plants, so you can easily transplant it to another area.
