Its scent of lemon and vanilla enchants the senses. But caution is advised when dealing with the dittany. The perennial, which is beautiful when it is in bloom, produces substances that are dangerous to humans.
Why is the dittany considered dangerous?
The diptam contains a significant amount of essential oils, which in case ofskin contactcan causeburns,blistersandEczemacan lead. In addition, all parts of the dittany plant are weakpoisonous Certain precautionary measures must therefore be taken when handling the perennial.
What questionable substances does the diptam contain?
The diptam (Dictamnus albus) containsfuranocoumarinsas well asfuranoquinoline alkaloids (e.g. dictamine). These substances are harmful to humans and are found in the leaves as well as in the stems, flowers and seeds of the diptam.
Why should the diptam not be touched with bare hands?
The diptam can causePhotodermatitis when touched. Contact with the plant releases the phototoxic substances it contains. They cause the skin to be sensitive to light. This leads to burns, blisters or eczema on the skin when exposed to the sun.
Is the diptam poisonous?
In all its plant partscontainsthe diptampoisonous substances. It is considered slightly poisonous. However, some pests such as snails are reluctant to stay away from this plant.
How can I protect myself from the dittany?
Anyone who has planted the diptam and, for example, handles it in the course of caring for it, shouldWear gloves If arms and legs are not clothed, they should also be protected. However, the plant, which comes from Asia, does not have to be completely avoided in the garden.
Is it safe to plant dittany?
The cultivation of diptam in Germany is onlyconcerning if the phototoxic effect of the plant is not known. For example, children are at risk if they come into contact with the dittany. Caution is advised when planting the diptam.
What should be done after touching the dittany?
Anyone who has touched the diptam with bare skin should then immediately wash off the affected areas of skin withwater. It is also important not to expose these areas to the sun, but to cover them withclothes.
Why is the diptam also considered a medicinal plant?
In the Middle Ages, the diptam was considered a medicinal plant because it wasdiuretic,expectorant,antispasmodicandantibacterial effect has. However, today it is hardly on the market anymore. However, in homeopathy it is used, for example, for gastrointestinal problems and menstrual problems.
Why is the dittany also called burning bush?
The extremely high content of essential oils causes the plant toself-ignite in sunny and hot weather, but does not suffer any damage. The essential oil in the glandular hair evaporates and can catch fire. That's why the harmless-looking diptam, which belongs to the Rutaceae family, is also called the burning bush.
Tip
Skin reaction may take time
Even if you don't have an immediate skin reaction, you should be careful. If the skin is exposed to the sun after contact with the dittany, a reaction in the form of eczema, blisters, etc. may not occur until one or two days later.
