Cypress trees contain a number of substances that are not only toxic to humans, but also to cats and other pets. A cypress or a cypress hedge should therefore only be planted or kept in the house if there are no children or pets in the family.
Cypress trees are toxic to humans and animals if eaten or touched
The poisonous components of the cypress
Cypresses contain substances in all parts of the plant, some of which are highly toxic:
- camphene
- cedrol
- furfural
- pinen
- sempervirol
- Sylvestren
- terpineol
They develop their toxic effect primarily through consumption. Symptoms of poisoning can be significant if children or pets have nibbled on the branches. If you suspect cypress poisoning, see your doctor or call a poison control center.
Toxic on contact
The essential oils of the cypress come out when caring for, especially when cutting the coniferous tree. In sensitive people, the juices can cause skin irritation or even skin inflammation.
Unlike native plants, the poison of the cypress is also released into the air. Sensitive people should therefore generally avoid planting cypresses.
Maintain cypresses only with gloves
Therefore, if possible, do not touch cypresses with your bare hands. This applies in particular to care measures such as cutting trees and hedges. You should always wear gloves when doing this.
Do not leave cuttings in the garden, but dispose of them as soon as possible. This will prevent children or animals from accidentally tampering with it.
tips
The essential oils of the cypress can be extracted from the young leaves by steam and processed into cypress oil (Oleum cupressi). Cypress oil has many healing properties. Among other things, it has a disinfecting and vasoconstrictive effect.