No matter how inviting the fresh bark, the leaves and the berry fruits of the buckthorn may look: all parts of the large shrub should literally be enjoyed with caution or not suitable for consumption as they are poisonous. You can find the most important information about this in this article.
Is the buckthorn poisonous to people and animals?
The buckthorn tree contains toxic glycosides and saponins in the bark, leaves and fruits, which can cause nausea, cramps, vomiting and bloody diarrhea if consumed. Particular caution applies to children and animals, which can be harmed by even small amounts.
Toxins in the buckthorn tree
In all parts of the buckthorn plant you can find
- Glycosides and
- Saponins.
Both ingredients are toxic.
Glycosides pose a particular danger. When parts of the buckthorn plant are damaged, hydrogen cyanide is released. This has a harmful effect on the metabolism (of humans and animals). Possible consequences of eating the bark, leaves or fruits:
- Nausea
- Body cramps
- Vomiting
- bloody diarrhea
The “enjoyment” of buckthorn parts leads to typical symptoms of poisoning.
Extra: bark as a laxative
The fresh bark of the buckthorn tree is considered a natural laxative. In principle, you can use this part of the plant for self-medication (preparation as tea). However, you have to be careful not to overdo it. Excessive consumption leads to the problems listed above.
Important: Only take tea made from fresh buckthorn bark in small quantities and over a short period of time. Children and pregnant women as well as people who are weakened due to age or illness should generally avoid taking it.
The dangers for children and animals
Please note that even very small amounts of the dangerous substances are toxic to children. Small children are quickly tempted to snack, especially by the pretty little berries. That's why you have to be careful if you have buckthorn trees in your garden and are the mother or father of a small child.
The components or ingredients of buckthorn are also toxic to animals. In this respect, owners of cats and dogs should refrain from cultivating the decorative plant in their own green oasis.
Note: If you have the slightest suspicion that your pet may have eaten parts of a buckthorn, you should consult a veterinarian immediately. It is best to take plant parts with you to make the diagnosis easier for the vet.
