Ranunculus, also known as buttercup, is a poisonous plant. The poison content is not very high. Symptoms of poisoning occur primarily in certain species, namely humans and animals. Caution is therefore also required on pastures and when collecting feed for domestic animals.

The buttercup is slightly poisonous

Some Poisonous Ranunculus Species

  • Spicy buttercup
  • Burning buttercup
  • Bulbous Ranunculus
  • Poison Ranunculus

Which parts of the plant are particularly poisonous?

All parts of the plant, but especially the flowers and roots of the buttercup are poisonous. Therefore, when fighting buttercups in the garden, do not leave any parts of the plant lying around.

Ranunculus toxin is protoanemonin.

Symptoms of poisoning can already appear directly on the skin through plant sap. Therefore, children should be encouraged not to pick the buttercup.

Symptoms of poisoning upon skin contact and consumption

Skin contact with ranunculus can cause skin reddening, itching and blistering, known as ranunculus dematitis.

When consuming large amounts of buttercups, the following occur:

  • Vomit
  • diarrhea
  • dizziness
  • cramps
  • paralysis

If ranunculus juice gets on the skin, the affected areas should be rinsed well with clear water. If the plant has been consumed, it is advisable to go to the doctor. He will usually initiate a charcoal detox and other appropriate measures.

Animals don't tolerate buttercups either

Ranunculus spreads especially on pastures for horses, cattle and sheep. Most animals avoid the poisonous herb. But once the pasture has been grazed, animals also eat buttercups.

Pets must not be fed fresh buttercups. If you gather fresh herbs from nature, be careful not to pick buttercups with them.

tips

Dried Ranunculus is no longer poisonous. Even if parts of the plant get into animal feed, there is no longer any danger. Nevertheless, when collecting food for pets, the proportion of buttercups should be kept as low as possible.

Category:

Vegetable garden