Can ZZ Plant Cause Cancer? Is it a myth or a reality? Let’s dig deep and find all the details and information to clear up the confusion!
Can ZZ Plant Cause Cancer? If you too have this question lurking in your mind, then we have all the right answers for you!
Check out 10 Common ZZ Plant Problems and Solutions here
ZZ Plant Information
ZZ plants (Zamioculcas Zamiifolia) is a hard-to-kill, low-maintenance houseplant from the Araceae family. In 1996, Dutch nurseries started planting the ZZ plant and distributing it worldwide.
Popular for the bright green waxy foliage, this houseplant is an excellent choice for forgetful gardeners as it thrives on neglect, has low watering needs, and requires little grooming.
This indestructible plant is reputed to be mildly poisonous, raising the question – Can ZZ Plant Cause Cancer? Keep reading!
Are ZZ Plants Poisonous to Humans and Pets?
According to the department of Horticulture at Iowa State University, the ZZ plant is considered poisonous to humans and pets if ingested. As stated by the University of Florida, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.
The plants from the Araceae family contain calcium oxalate, which can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain if ingested in large quantities.
Note: All parts of the ZZ plant have calcium oxalate crystals – this includes green foliage, stems, roots, seeds, and sap.
Learn about Raven Zz Plant Care Tips and How to Keep it, Jet Black, here
What are the Poisonous Symptoms of ZZ Plants?
When the ZZ plant sap comes in contact with skin or is ingested, it will cause a burning pain sensation.
According to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, poisoning from swallowing an oxalate-containing plant is rare because intense mouth pain/irritation usually prevents children/adults from eating a significant quantity of the plant.
Check out 10 Ultimate ZZ Plant Types here
How To Protect Yourself While Handling the ZZ Plant
Wear gloves while handling the leaf cuttings, planting rhizomes, re-potting, or dividing the tubers. Wash your hands and arms, especially if any sap touches your skin.
Are ZZ Plants Toxic to Cats? Check here
Does ZZ Plant Causes Cancer?
ZZ plant is mildly toxic to humans, and if ingested in large quantities, severe calcium oxalate poisoning causes kidney stones. In extreme conditions, it can result in untimely death or induce coma. However, that’s about it. The plant DOES NOT CAUSE CANCER.
Find How to Propagate a ZZ Plant here
Conclusion – Can ZZ Cause Cancer?
The straight answer to this question is NO. Just keep it away from pets and children to be on the safe side, so they don’t ingest it and get an upset stomach or mouth irritation.
