Arisaema spp.

Commonname(s) Green dragon, dragon arum, dragon tail, dragon's-head (A. draconitium; do not confuse with the mint Dracocephalum), Jack-in-the-pulpit, bog onion, brown dragon, cuckoo plant, memory root, pepper turnip, priests pentle (A. triphyllum), starchwort, three-leaved Indian turnip, wakerobin.

Toxin(s) Calcium oxalate and possibly irritant proteins.

Toxic part(s) Whole plant.

Signs Pain and swelling of the oral cavity. Acute inflammation of the oropharynx accompanied by salivation, pawing at the mouth, and drooling. Edema of the lips, tongue, and throat may be seen.

Treatment Usually none required. Analgesics may be required. Swelling may be treated with cool compresses. It is unknown if diuretics or glu co corticosteroid would help with the inflammation. Rarely, the swelling will interfere with respiration. If necessary, secure the airway.