Roses, tulips, carnations, all flowers wither… In full bloom, however, many garden plants are one thing above all: highly toxic.
First and foremost the popular tulip. Tuliposides are found in flowers, stems, leaves and bulbs. Sensitivity and prolonged skin contact can lead to “tulip bulb dermatitis” with itching and swelling. Tulip growers know this: wear gloves!
It is very toxic – be careful! – the garden bean. But only the pods and their RAW seeds. Because they contain phasin, a toxic protein that is destroyed during cooking. Anyone who eats raw seeds can develop symptoms of poisoning such as abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, fever and, in the worst case, collapse.
The ornamental shrub Thuja also has it all: Essential oils from monoterpenes in wood, cones and branch tips can lead to gastrointestinal problems and seizures when consumed. First aid: drink a lot.
Many plants contain alkaloids, organic, nitrogenous, highly toxic compounds. The deadly nightshade contains them, for example. And also the angel’s trumpet, the black henbane, the datura and the popular laburnum. Even the smallest amounts can cause heart problems and hallucinations. Immediately to the doctor!
The poison Taxin can be found in the yew tree. Gastric emptying is recommended after eating more than two seeds. The synthetically produced taxol is in turn an important component of several drugs against breast and ovarian cancer.
Hydrocyanic acid compounds are found in hydrangea. It is slightly poisonous. A high dose can cause convulsions and suffocation.
Not only the consumption, but also the touching or grinding of plants can be dangerous.
The giant hogweed – especially its juice is very toxic due to the secondary plant substances furocoumarins. Burn-like symptoms such as blisters may appear on the skin. They heal slowly.
And this is the most poisonous plant in the garden: blue monkshood. Why? Its venom can even be absorbed through the skin. For example, when children play with flowers. After 10 to 20 minutes, the mouth begins to burn, then the poison spreads over the entire skin to the point of numbness. Respiratory paralysis can lead to death. If you suspect something, go to the clinic immediately.
Source: Information center against poisoning at the University Hospital in Bonn
Source: Stern
