Azalea toxicity: an overrated problem?

J Toxicol Clin Toxicol. 1985;23(2-3):91-101. doi: 10.3109/15563658508990620.

Abstract

One-hundred-and-fifty-two azalea ingestions reported to two regional poison centers over a three year period are reviewed. Twenty-eight exposures were the result of sucking nectar from the flower; the remainder involved ingestion of leaves or flowers. Nine patients developed symptoms, but these were minor or probably unrelated in eight. A single patient was significantly symptomatic, experiencing repeated vomiting and transient hypertension. Emergency department treatment was rendered in 9.2% of patients, and hospital admission for less than 24 hours was required in only one case. Ingestion of moderate amounts of azalea pose little toxic hazard.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Plant Poisoning / etiology
  • Plant Poisoning / therapy*
  • Plants, Toxic / classification