We are enchanted by magnificently blooming rhododendrons everywhere in parks and gardens. Beautiful but poisonous to humans and especially animals. Which poisons rhododendrons contain and the effects on humans and animals
Why is rhododendron poisonous?
Rhododendron plants are poisonous to humans and animals because they contain toxic substances such as diterpenes, grayanotoxins, acetylandromedol and andromedotoxin. Poisoning manifests itself in symptoms such as salivation, irritation of the mucous membranes, dizziness, nausea and, in the worst case, paralysis.
The original homeland of rhododendrons is China, Tibet and the Asian jungle. Even in the English gardens of the 18th century, people valued it as a windbreak, decoration, and medicinal and poisonous plant. Around 20 species are native to North America. In our latitudes there are around 900 rhododendron varieties and as many hybrids available in specialist shops.
Poisonous substances, effects and symptoms:
Of the numerous rhododendron species, many contain toxins. The substances dangerous to humans and animals are found in leaves, flowers, fruits, nectar and pollen. Honey from areas where rhododendrons are widespread, such as the Turkish Black Sea coast, may also contain poison.
Rhododendrons contain the following toxic substances:
- Diterpenes
- Grayanotoxins
- Acetylandromedol
- Andromedotoxin
Rhododendron poisonous: possible symptoms in people
Be careful when playing with children in the garden or park that the little ones do not frolic too close to rhododendrons or remove flowers and play with leaves or swallow them. Be careful when drinking honey made from rhododendron nectar.
The following symptoms indicate rhododendron poisoning: increased salivation, mucous membrane irritation, skin tingling and sensory disturbances in extremities. In addition, general complaints such as sweating, dizziness, nausea, nausea or diarrhea. In severe poisoning, convulsions, cardiac arrhythmias, paralysis and even fatal respiratory paralysis occur.
Rhododendron poisonous to animals
Normally, animals' natural instinct tells them which plants they can and cannot eat. But the more our pets become alienated from their natural environment, the more likely they are to make mistakes. That's why every animal lover should find out about dangerous poisonous plants in the area.
Animals are particularly sensitive to rhododendron poison. Horses, pets and tortoises in particular can die a few hours after eating rhododendron leaves. For tortoises, just one flower or a few leaves is enough to be a lethal dose.
The symptoms are much more pronounced in animals than in humans. Increased salivation, cramps and inflammation in the gastrointestinal area are typical poisoning reactions. In the worst case, fatal respiratory paralysis occurs.
Dogs are also at risk if they sniff or lie in the toxic soil under a rhododendron. The danger of poisoning lurks in evergreen plants even in winter.
First aid for rhododendron poisoning:If you feel sick, drink plenty of fluids. If symptoms become more severe, consult a doctor immediately to administer charcoal or detoxification measures or call the poison emergency number (030 / 192 40).
Healing effects and medicinal uses:Asian species are used as heart strengthening and blood pressure lowering drugs. The Rhododendron chryseum, which comes from Siberia, is recommended homeopathically for gout and rheumatism.
Tips & Tricks
Avoid poisonous plants near play areas or barbecue areas when planning. As a garden lover, you should know exactly what is green, blooming, fragrant and possibly poisonous in your area. If you want to be on the safe side, create a herb and vegetable patch separate from ornamental shrubs.
