Bougainvillea Thorn Injury: Toxic Sap Reaction Requires Medical Attention

Bougainvillea Sap & Thorns Can Cause Severe Reactions

Bougainvillea thorns, sap, and juice contain compounds that cause contact dermatitis, severe swelling, and pain in sensitive individuals. This is not a typical puncture wound—it's a toxic reaction.

Immediate Steps

1. Call Poison Control immediately: 1-800-222-1222 (US).
2. Seek urgent medical care – Extreme swelling risks infection (sepsis, MRSA). A general practitioner may not recognize plant-specific toxicity.
3. Inform doctors – Specify "bougainvillea thorn/sap exposure."

Future Prevention

• Always wear heavy leather gloves, long sleeves, and eye protection when handling bougainvillea.
• Wash skin immediately after any contact with sap.
• Consider removing plants if household members are highly reactive.

This is a medical issue, not a gardening one. Prioritize professional treatment now.