The groundsel is one of the most species-rich flowering plants ever. Accordingly, it is located worldwide. There are at least 30 species in this country. Sometimes in the middle of the bed. Is the herb poisonous and if so, how poisonous?
Is ragwort poisonous to humans?
Racewort is poisonous to humans because it contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which have liver-damaging and carcinogenic effects and are considered highly toxic even in small quantities. The concentration of these substances is highest, particularly in flowers and young plants.
Not edible, but poisonous
While many wild herbs are he althy and tasty for us, you definitely have to stay away from ragwort. It is not only unsuitable for human consumption, but poisonous.
- Redwort contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids
- Ingesting them is highly toxic even in small quantities
- the substances are liver-damaging and carcinogenic
- The concentration is highest in flowers and young plants
Tip
The leaves of groundsel can be confused with some edible wild herbs. Therefore, be particularly careful when picking wild herbs for salads.
Delayed effect
Pyrrolizidine alkaloids do not have an immediate or directly fatal effect. It is only when they are converted in the liver that they become dangerous toxins.
- Symptoms of poisoning appear late
- usually after weeks or even months
Indirect recording
Many species of groundsel also grow in pastures. Live plants are avoided by cows. They are eaten as part of hay because they no longer taste off-puttingly bitter when dry. The toxic ingredients of groundsel can therefore also be found in milk, eggs, honey or some herbal teas.
