Allergens From a Weeping Fig Tree

Large or small, weeping fig trees can pose problems for some.

Weeping fig (Ficus benjamina) trees are frequently used as house and office plants for their tolerance of indoor growing conditions, but these trees can pose hazards for some people. Allergic reactions to weeping fig trees have been recorded, but not everyone will react the same. For any severe reaction to weeping fig, contact your doctor immediately.

Toxic Components

Weeping fig trees oxalates in all their parts: leaves, stems and sap. The sap, especially produces a reaction similar to a latex reaction. Breaking or cutting the weeping fig tree will release this latex-like sap, but like latex, it does not cause an allergic reaction in everyone. Particles from the leaves of weeping fig trees can become airborne and irritate the lungs of those with chronic lung ailments.

Allergic Reactions

Skin or mouth contact with the sap produces redness, itching or irritation. Chewing or swallowing the sap from weeping fig trees might cause throat and mouth irritation and difficulty breathing. These symptoms require immediate medical attention. Those with asthma and lung problems could experience difficulty breath when exposed to weeping fig leaf particles by sitting in the same room with a weeping fig for extended periods of time.

Most Susceptible

Reactions to weeping fig tree sap are most likely in those with latex allergies because the sap and latex are similar. Children and pets who are more likely to chew on the leaves of the plants could have a more severe reaction to the tree than adults who would only come in skin contact with the sap. Like latex, the more exposure a person has to the sap of a weeping fig, the greater the chances are that he will develop an allergic reaction to it. Those with asthma and other lung problems could be susceptible to lung irritation from the leaf particles.

What to Do

Mild skin irritation from contact with weeping fig sap will pass with time. Thoroughly washing the skin to rinse away the sap and anti-itch creams can soothe the site. For those with irritation around the mouth or in the throat, seek immediate medical attention. Asthmatics experiencing difficulty breathing or lung irritation should move to a different room from the weeping fig.

References

• Georgia Health Sciences University News; MCG Researchers Find Connection Between Poinsettia and Latex Allergy; December 2003
• University of Wisconsin Sheboygan Extension; Common Plants: What's Poisonous and What's Not; August 2007
• "Allergic Diseases: Diagnosis and Treatment"; Phil L. Lieberman, et al; 2007
• "California Master Gardener Handbook"; Dennis R. Pittenger; 2002