- Joined
- Dec 12, 2014
- Messages
- 985
I used to think that this was just a myth, the "Deadly Manchineel".
Apparently it exists.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manchineel
Apparently it exists.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manchineel
All parts of the tree contain strong toxins, some unidentified. Its milky white sap contains phorbol and other skin irritants, producing strong allergic dermatitis. Standing beneath the tree during rain will cause blistering of the skin from mere contact with this liquid (even a small drop of rain with the milky substance in it will cause the skin to blister). The sap has also been known to damage the paint on cars. Burning the tree may cause ocular injuries if the smoke reaches the eyes. Contact with its milky sap (latex) produces bullous dermatitis, acute keratoconjunctivitis and possibly large corneal epithelial defects.