Question
I was removing a very large Bougenbelia and no doubt lost the argument with the thorns. The reaction to the puncture has been not pleasant. Extreme swelling and pain. I have seen a doctor but the remedy has failed. My question is: are these plants poisonous?

Answer
Hi Richard,
Thanx for your question.  Use gloves when handling your bougainvillea. The thorns, juice and sap are considered toxic, and can cause skin rashes and irritation.  Richard, please call the your local poison control center.  Some people have severe reactions to skin contact with bougainvillea sap and/or thorns.  Your doctor may not be familiar with these effects.  General practitioners can't know everything so don't be to hard on the doctor.

If you are experiencing extreme swelling and pain this needs to be addressed in order to prevent sepsis or make you susceptible to MRSA which is a serious for of strep.  I don't want to alarm you but I think you need immediate attention from a local poison expert.  Please contact Poison Control and by all means do let me know how you fare.
Tom