How to Avoid Mistletoe Poisoning

Mistletoe, the fun Christmas plant you hang over doorways to catch couples and have them kiss, is actually extremely poisonous. Symptoms of mistletoe poisoning includes blurry vision, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, slow heartbeat, low blood pressure, hallucinations, disorientation and convulsions. It's not only poisonous for humans, but also for pets. Luckily, you can avoid mistletoe poisoning with some common sense.

Instructions

• 1

  Avoid making a tea out of the leaves. While the berries are the most poisonous part of the plant, the leaves are also poisonous and you should never ingest them.

• 2

  Keep the mistletoe out of the reach of children and pets to prevent mistletoe poisoning. Children and pets are likely to ingest mistletoe simply because it looks pretty or looks like a berry they could eat. Remember that children are very curious during the holiday season and often will go exploring without your knowledge. Consider making your house a mistletoe-free house during the holiday season.

• 3

  Place the mistletoe in a net or a plastic bag to prevent any leaves or berries from falling off and into the reach of children and pets.

• 4

  Dispose of mistletoe plants properly. Don't let a plant fall behind a dumpster or garbage can for a child or pet to find.

• 5

  Contact poison control or your care provider immediately if you suspect you or a child has ingested mistletoe. Never make anyone vomit unless instructed to do so. Treatment works best the soonest it's administered.