With their foliage they look inconspicuous. With their flowers, which appear around May, they appear completely harmless, even sometimes delicious. But are they safe to eat, or are they highly toxic?
Peonies are slightly poisonous, but only if eaten
A slightly poisonous plant
Don't put peonies on your dinner plate! Why? Because peonies are slightly poisonous. They contain substances that can cause a lot of turmoil in your digestive tract. Anyone who consumes too large amounts of the peony must expect symptoms such as:
- Vomit
- nausea
- diarrhea
- Gastrointestinal Pain
Normally, small amounts consumed do not have a negative effect and you do not have to expect any symptoms. However, small children and pets should be warned not to taste the peony. They are more prone to poisoning. Small amounts can cause vomiting and diarrhea in cats. Peonies are even considered highly toxic to dogs!
Peonies also have healing properties
Who would have thought - although peonies are mildly poisonous, they are also medicinal. This has been known for several centuries. In the past, the petals, seeds and roots were mainly used in folk medicine. The roots are said to help with seizures, intestinal problems and gout.
Today's homeopathy also appreciates peonies. The content of glycosides and alkaloids is insignificant, since the small amounts of these toxic active ingredients are not decisive in homeopathy. Among other things, the roots are used homeopathically for hemorrhoids.
tips
Even though peonies are slightly poisonous, there is no need to be afraid when handling these plants or pruning them. The main active ingredient paenoflorin has no adverse effect on skin contact.