The Tree of Death also known as Mancenilheira da praia or Mancenilheira da Areia is one of the deadliest trees in the world, since all parts of this plant, especially its fruits, are poisonous and can cause burns, blindness, respiratory problems or death.
The scientific name of this tree is Hippomane mancinella, and it grows in South and North America, from the coast of Florida to Colombia in coastal regions, its presence is usually marked with warning signs or red crosses that signal death and imminent danger. So, to protect yourself from this deadly plant that has already entered the record books, you need to be well aware of its dangers, including:
- The fruits of this plant.
- Although similar to apples and with a pleasant smell and taste.
- Are extremely toxic.
- Causing pain and burns in the mouth and throat.
- Even when ingested in small quantities.
In some situations, eating these fruits can lead to death, believing that a single fruit can lead to the deaths of 20 people.
Therefore, it is important not to eat fruits from trees you do not know or where you do not know where they come from, especially if they are small and green, very similar to a small English apple, which grows on trees that are taller and different from the apple tree. .
In case of accidental ingestion of the fruit, it is important to consult a doctor promptly, so that the remains of the fruit can be eliminated from the body before being absorbed.
The sap of this tree, in addition to being also toxic, is also extremely toxic and corrosive to the skin, because when it comes into contact with the skin, it can cause severe allergic reactions, redness, irritation, swelling, blisters or severe burns. .
To protect yourself from the sap of this plant, you should not touch or go near its trunks or leaves, or stay under the tree to protect yourself from the sun or rain. Sheltering under this tree can be dangerous because the sap can sink in and burn the tree. skin, especially on rainy or humid days, when water eventually dilutes the sap, which drains more easily and causes severe breakouts.
Choosing to burn this plant is also not a good idea, as the smoke from the inhalation is toxic and can cause blindness and serious breathing problems, so in these situations it is better not to smoke, but if this is not possible, you should cover the cable with a cloth or use an oxygen mask to protect yourself.
In addition, when the wood of this plant is cut, it remains poisonous, and its danger is only eliminated when the wood dries in the sun.
To identify this deadly plant, it is important to pay attention to the characteristics of the plant, which include:
These trees can reach 20 meters in height, making them attractive shelters for people sheltered from tropical sun and rain in coastal areas.