Invasive alien plant impacts on human health and well-being.

Abstract

In this chapter we review, based on information available in scientific literature and reports, the most common negative direct impacts of invasive alien plants and Cyanobacteria on human health and well-being. Poisonous or toxic plants, i.e. plants containing toxic compounds, may impact human health generally after the ingestion of part of the plant (see Nicotiana glauca) or of some product derived from toxic plants (see Senecio inaequidens poisoned products). Allergenic plants are among the most studied cases of impacts of alien plants, particularly concerning the role of allergenic pollen. Many invasive species are well-known allergenic species (e.g. Ambrosia artemisiifolia). Some species may cause contact dermatitis, due to chemical compounds capable of causing adverse cutaneous reactions (e.g. Heracleum mantegazzianum and Parthenium hysterophorus). A significant cause of impact is linked to plants armed with thorns, spines and prickles. Injuries caused by these plants, and their consequences, represent a common clinical issue, sometimes leading also to dermatitis, infection and chronic wounds. Finally we include a review of human impacts related to Cyanobacteria and toxic algal blooms, highlighting the impacts related to cyanotoxins, which seriously impede water uses and environment, causing hazards to human health and sanitary alarm, with acute and chronic effects.