The berries of the beautiful fruit, as the love pearl bush is also called, look like the little colorful sugar balls that many people remember from childhood. That tempts you to try them. But wait a minute: Is this plant actually poisonous?
Is the love pearl bush poisonous?
The love pearl bush is slightly poisonous due to the toxins callicarpenal, intermedeol and spathulenol. Poisoning is manifested by stomach discomfort, nausea and vomiting. Up to 10 berries are safe for children, but fatal poisoning is unlikely.
Beautiful to look at, but inedible
These shimmering purple 'love pearls' of this easy-care shrub look almost magical. But they contain substances that are less beneficial to he alth. You notice this when you taste one of the berries. They taste extremely unpleasant. A he althy sense of taste recognizes toxins and wants to protect the body from them. Spitting out is the result.
Slightly toxic due to 3 substances
The love pearl bush is classified as slightly poisonous due to three substances. Here are the facts:
- Toxins: Callicarpenal, Intermedeol and Spathulenol
- Poisoning manifests itself in stomach problems, nausea and vomiting
- up to 10 pieces are safe for children
- The main danger comes from the berries
- various content of toxins depending on the variety
Fatal poisonings are unlikely
Since the berries of the beautiful fruit are extremely unappetizing, it is quite unlikely that people will be fatally poisoned by them. They taste bitter and astringent. However, you should inform your children about this.
Be careful when using branches as living room decoration
Even if you have cut off individual branches as decoration for your home and placed them in a vase, you should be careful! Preferably place the vase in a place that is out of the reach of small children and pets!
Tip
The leaves can be collected and rubbed on the skin. This protects against ticks and mosquitoes, among other things.
