Contrary to popular belief, none of the parts of the blackthorn plant are highly poisonous. However, you should not bite or swallow the relatively large stones of the dark blue to black fruits as they contain small traces of hydrogen cyanide. However, this is no reason to avoid blackthorn berries as a flavor carrier in jams or liqueurs.
Is blackthorn poisonous?
The blackthorn is not poisonous, but its seeds contain traces of hydrogen cyanide and should not be chewed or swallowed. However, sloe berries are harmless as a flavoring agent in jams or liqueurs.
Safe for adults
The prussic acid glycoside amygdalin contained in the core is converted into prussic acid in the body. However, the content of this substance in the sloe kernels is much lower than in bitter almonds, apple or apricot kernels. Even if you marinate the blackthorn fruits in alcohol for several weeks to make an aromatic liqueur, only a small amount of the glycoside passes into the drink and poisoning is excluded with the amounts usually consumed.
If children consume blackthorn seeds in large quantities, it can be dangerous because the child's body cannot neutralize the poison quickly enough! If your child has unintentionally tasted a large amount of fruit, you should consult a doctor immediately.
Sloeberries – treats for birds
The bush's dense thorny bush provides shelter for numerous birds and is difficult for enemies to penetrate. Due to their size and color, blackthorn berries are a popular food for feathered lodgers, who can only use the pulp due to the poisonous core. The blackthorn kernel is excreted undigested and travels to distant areas in the animals' feces.
Valuable medicinal plant
Since the ingredients in raw blackthorn berries have a strong astringent and laxative effect, they are not suitable for raw consumption. The tannins contained in large quantities are responsible for the unpleasantly sour taste. A furry, numb feeling remains on the tongue and mucous membranes.
Because of these valuable ingredients, all parts of the blackthorn plant are used in natural medicine. Hildegard von Bingen and Sebastian Kneipp already reported on the positive effects of blackthorn on he alth. An infusion made from the flowers or leaves of blackthorn is suitable as
- gentle laxative
- gentle remedy for coughs and colds
- Effective natural medicine for drainage.
In therapeutic doses, side effects are not to be feared. However, if you have any symptoms, you should consult a doctor or alternative practitioner before use.
Tips & Tricks
The blackthorn is considered a he althy all-rounder. In spring you can collect and dry blackthorn flowers yourself to make tea.