A seven-year-old boy in Illinois nearly died after coming into contact with pokeweed, a poisonous plant, while performing a common garden chore. Rayden Vollrath was helping his stepmother clear weeds in their backyard in Barry, Pike County, when he touched the plant, which has purple berries. His mother, Danielle Carnicelli, believes the sap from the plant's stalk came into contact with his skin and nails, and subsequently his face, triggering a severe allergic reaction.
Hours after the incident, Rayden began to experience burning, itching, and swelling on his skin. The reaction rapidly progressed to anaphylactic shock, causing him difficulty breathing and chest pain. "It was like it was okay and then it wasn’t," Carnicelli described the rapid and frightening turn of events. Nurses reportedly applied cool rags to help manage his discomfort, as he was unable to sleep.
Doctors at the hospital confirmed that contact with pokeweed was the cause of Rayden's condition. He spent two days in the hospital and was sent home with an EpiPen and a regimen of eight different medications. Rayden is now recovering, and his mother shared the experience hoping to raise awareness among other parents.
"I just warn parents in general to be mindful of your location and where you're at," Carnicelli stated. "See the purple, the berries, just educate yourself before you let your children or anybody come in contact with it."
Pokeweed, also known as American nightshade or pokeberry, is an invasive weed native to fields, pastures, and open woods in the eastern United States. All parts of the plant are poisonous, particularly the roots. Skin contact can lead to irritation, redness, and swelling, especially in individuals with allergies. Ingesting the plant, even uncooked, can be fatal.
When asked if he would wear gloves next time, Rayden responded affirmatively. The incident underscores the importance of identifying and avoiding contact with potentially hazardous plants when outdoors.