Mother Nature may be the source for every human need however there are a few elements in it that are dangerous to the lives of humans. Out of the ten most dangerous plants in the world, there is one tree that humans don't need to touch to feel its effects. This is none other than the Manchineel Tree Florida.
Reaching up to 15 meters in height, the Manchineel Tree Florida has shiny green leaves, grey bark and spiky small green flowers. The tree also bears fruit which are green when ripe which resembles the shape of an apple. However, the tree is the last tree anyone would want to be in close contact with.
The Manchineel Tree Florida with the scientific name of Hippomane mancinella is considered to be one of the world's most dangerous tree. Humans don't have to touch it to feel the effect. Found throughout Central America, Caribbean and Florida, the tree emits smoke that causes a range of uncomfortable effects such as bronchitis, laryngitis and coughing.
According to additional reports, standing beneath a Manchineel Tree Florida during a rainstorm causes itching and rashes. As for direct contact with the tree, the effects are even more hazardous to human health.
Coming in contact with a Manchineel Tree Florida causes painful irritation of the eyes and the skin especially with the tree's' milky sap. Ingestion of the sap also causes serious gastrointestinal problems while it can cause blisters to the mouth and swelling of the throat. Such effects are mainly caused by the toxin hippomane A and B present in the Manchineel Tree Florida. Due to its' effects, warning signs are placed on the tree to avoid direct contact.
Despite the toxic effects it has on the human body, the tree is an excellent tree around beaches as it helps in preventing erosion due to its roots stabilizing the sand.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader