Lantana camara, commonly known as lantana, is a flowering plant native to Central and South America but is now widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including Nepal. While its bright and colorful flowers make it a popular choice for ornamental purposes, it is considered an invasive species in many regions.
Lantana contains toxic compounds, including triterpenoids, alkaloids, and flavonoids, which can cause skin irritation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and even liver damage in humans and animals. The ripe berries of some species of lantana can also be poisonous if ingested. Tourists visiting areas where lantana is prevalent should be aware of its potential dangers and avoid touching or ingesting the plant. It is also important to properly wash any skin that comes in contact with the plant to prevent irritation.