When we hear about poisonous cactiIt's normal for doubts and some concern to arise, especially if we have children, pets, or simply collect these fascinating plants. Despite their imposing appearance and striking spines, cacti harbor many myths and half-truths that are worth clarifying.
The world of cacti is full of surprising species, and although the vast majority are harmless, there are important aspects related to their spines, their potential toxicities, and the risks associated with their consumption that are not always known.
Are there dangerous cacti?
One of the most frequently asked questions among those new to cacti is whether these plants pose any significant health risks. Its thorny appearance can be intimidating., and it is not uncommon for concerns to arise about whether they may contain poison or cause serious adverse reactions.
In fact, the vast majority of cactus species they are not poisonousCommon cacti, whether grown at home or in gardens, have not been shown to contain substances that are lethal or highly toxic to people or pets. However, this does not mean that there are no risks associated with handling or consuming them, so it is important to know how to react and distinguish between real dangers and those that are merely imagined.
What injuries can cactus spines cause?
Cactus spines can be sharp, stiff, and sometimes difficult to remove if they stick into the skin.. Certain species, such as many of the genus Opuntia, they have spines with microscopic hooks or 'fishhooks' that literally get caught in the skin, making their removal difficult and potentially causing mild inflammation or infections if not removed correctly.
Although the prick is painful and annoying, It usually does not go beyond a small local woundTo avoid accidents, it is recommended to handle cacti with thick gloves, tweezers, and, once you have experience, with extreme care. Children should be informed and supervised, and it is a good idea to place the most dangerous specimens out of their reach, for example, on high shelves or in areas where they are not frequently used.
Pets, especially cats, rarely get pricked by cacti.They have the ability to avoid thorns when moving between plants and usually learn to respect cacti quickly after their first encounter.
Thornless cacti and safer species
There are completely harmless cacti As far as punctures are concerned, since they lack thorns or have them so soft that they do not pose any danger. Popular examples are the Astrophytum, Lophophora or Blossfeldia, which can be easily handled and are ideal for those who want to avoid accidents at home.
Despite this protective appearance, some spiny cacti can also thrive in domestic environments if a few precautions are taken. Cactus collecting is a safe and fascinating world. if its nature is respected.
Do cacti contain poison?
One of the most widespread myths is that cacti contain poison. To date, no potentially fatal poisonous substances have been identified in common cacti. for people or animals. However, there are species that contain compounds with biological activity traditionally used in natural medicine, although they should not be used without in-depth knowledge of dosage and preparations.
The best known example is peyote (Lophophora williamsii) and the Saint Peter (Echinopsis pachanoi), which contain alkaloids such as mescalineHowever, the risk posed by these cacti is not due to their deadly poison, but rather due to the psychoactive effects of these substances and their potential to cause severe poisoning if consumed irresponsibly. In all cases, Home or recreational use is strongly discouraged.
What about other plants that look like cacti?
A common confusion occurs between the cacti and euphorbias, since some species of euphorbia They have a very similar morphology. The latter can be truly dangerous: its white latex, called 'wolf's milk'It is highly toxic and can cause severe skin and mucous membrane irritation, and even blindness if it comes into contact with the eyes. It is always a good idea to properly identify plants before handling them.
Risks associated with the consumption of psychoactive cacti
The consumption of psychoactive cactiand peyote or San Pedro, is not harmless. These plants contain mescaline and other alkaloids that can trigger serious poisoning. Poisoning usually occurs after consuming high doses (more than 100 mg of mescaline per kilogram of body weight), causing everything from unpleasant physical reactions such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness to much more serious problems such as respiratory failure or liver damage.
Furthermore, The use of these cacti can trigger episodes of psychosis, especially in vulnerable individuals or those with a history of psychiatric illness. Interaction with other substances is unpredictable and dangerous, so it is essential to avoid combined use with drugs, medications, or alcohol.
What symptoms appear after consuming a cactus with alkaloids?
After ingesting psychoactive cacti, the first symptoms appear shortly after. These include dizziness, vertigo, nausea, vomiting, and even episodes of confusion or disorientation. In most cases, these symptoms are self-limiting and go away, but in overdose situations, they can become severely complicated.
Mescaline and other alkaloids can be detected in blood and urine for up to several days after consumption, demonstrating the persistence of these substances in the body.
Tips for safe handling of cacti
- Use thick gloves and tools such as tweezers, especially with cacti that have hooked or very fine spines.
- Keep cacti out of reach of children and animals., especially those species with more aggressive or difficult-to-remove spines.
- Make sure you correctly identify your plants to avoid confusing cacti with euphorbias or other toxic species.
- Do not consume psychoactive cacti without medical supervision or self-medicate with homemade preparations
Is it dangerous to collect cacti?
Cactus collecting can be a safe hobby, as long as you respect the species and take the necessary precautions. Most cacti pose no risk if handled carefully and responsibly. Furthermore, there are many varieties that lack dangerous spines, making them ideal for keeping with children and pets under proper supervision.
Knowledge of the species, how to handle them, and respect for their natural characteristics make this activity an educational and highly rewarding experience for botany enthusiasts.
