Its tropical origins and abundant flowers rightly make experienced hobby gardeners take notice. So much exotic beauty often comes with toxic substances in the floral luggage. Read here what the poison content of a miracle flower is.
Is the miracle flower poisonous?
The miracle flower (Mirabilis jalapa) is non-toxic in its flowers and leaves and even has healing properties. However, the seeds and tubers are poisonous and can lead to symptoms of poisoning such as vomiting, diarrhea and cramps if consumed. They represent a potential source of danger, especially for children and pets.
Flowers and leaves have natural healing properties
People in their home regions use the herbaceous parts of a miracle flower for medicinal purposes. Ingredients such as betalains (non-toxic alkaloids), Rotenoids (anti-inflammatory bioflavonide) and Arabinose (natural simple sugars) help alleviate these he alth problems:
- Inflammation of the skin
- Open wounds
- Digestive problems
Prepared as a tea, the miracle flower exerts its healing effects from within. Inflamed skin and wounds heal more quickly if they are treated regularly with the tea. Furthermore, knowledgeable herbalists process the tuber into a healing wound dressing.
Seeds and tubers of the miracle flower are poisonous
Mirabilis jalapa is not completely harmless. Its countless flowers turn into pea-sized seeds, which can cause unpleasant symptoms of poisoning if consumed intentionally or unintentionally. Due to their size, they represent a potential source of danger for curious children and pets.
The tubers turn out to be poisonous if they are eaten. Since they are only planted just under 3 cm deep in the ground, curious dogs and cats like to grab them. The consequences are vomiting, diarrhea and cramps. Furthermore, the roots have a hallucinogenic effect on humans and animals, so the fragrant and flowering plant is not suitable for the family garden.
Tip
Consistently cut off everything that has faded during the flowering period. Thanks to this care, you create space for the next buds, the well-groomed appearance is maintained and the miracle flower does not invest its energy in the growth of the poisonous seeds.